Border Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel
Terrier · Small vs Sporting · Large
Border TerrierSmall
An affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border.
Weight: 13–15.5 lbsLifespan: 12–15 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 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
- • The Border Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Irish Water Spaniel sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Border Terrier | Irish Water Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Sporting |
Size | Small | Large |
Origin | England | Ireland |
Height (male) | 13–15" | 22–24" |
Height (female) | 13–15" | 21–23" |
Weight (male) | 13–15.5 lbs | 55–68 lbs |
Weight (female) | 11.5–14 lbs | 45–58 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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About the Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.
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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Border Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Heart problems
Irish Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism