Afghan Hound vs Irish Water Spaniel
Hound · Large vs Sporting · Large
Afghan HoundLarge
An aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat.
Weight: 60 lbsLifespan: 12–18 years
Irish Water SpanielLarge
A playful, hardworking, brave water retriever — Ireland's sporting clown with a famous rat-tail.
Weight: 55–68 lbsLifespan: 12–13 years
Quick take
- • Irish Water Spaniel is the larger breed at 55–68 lbs (males) vs 60 lbs for the Afghan Hound.
- • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
- • The Irish Water Spaniel sheds less.
- • The Irish Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Afghan Hound | Irish Water Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Sporting |
Size | Large | Large |
Origin | Afghanistan | Ireland |
Height (male) | 27" | 22–24" |
Height (female) | 25" | 21–23" |
Weight (male) | 60 lbs | 55–68 lbs |
Weight (female) | 50 lbs | 45–58 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–18 years | 12–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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About the Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.
About the Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a playful, hardworking, brave water retriever — Ireland's sporting clown with a famous rat-tail. Originally from Ireland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–68 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, hardworking, brave.
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Afghan Hound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
Irish Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism