Chiweenie vs Irish Water Spaniel

Miscellaneous · Toy vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Irish Water Spaniel is the larger breed at 55–68 lbs (males) vs 5–12 lbs for the Chiweenie.
  • The Chiweenie typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Irish Water Spaniel sheds less.
  • The Irish Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChiweenieIrish Water Spaniel
Group
MiscellaneousSporting
Size
ToyLarge
Origin
USAIreland
Height (male)
6–10"22–24"
Height (female)
6–10"21–23"
Weight (male)
5–12 lbs55–68 lbs
Weight (female)
5–12 lbs45–58 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–16 years12–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Chiweenie

The Chiweenie is a spirited, devoted, big-personality Chihuahua × Dachshund hybrid — toy-sized 'mexican hot dog'. Originally from USA, this toy miscellaneous breed typically weighs 5–12 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, devoted, lively.

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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Chiweenie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD
  • Patellar luxation
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Dental issues

Irish Water Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism