Irish Water Spaniel vs Komondor

Sporting · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Komondor is the larger breed at 100 lbs (males) vs 55–68 lbs for the Irish Water Spaniel.
  • The Irish Water Spaniel typically lives longer (12–13 years).
  • The Irish Water Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish Water SpanielKomondor
Group
SportingWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
IrelandHungary
Height (male)
22–24"27.5"
Height (female)
21–23"25.5"
Weight (male)
55–68 lbs100 lbs
Weight (female)
45–58 lbs80 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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.

About the Komondor

The Komondor is a serious, loyal, dignified giant Hungarian guardian — the famous corded 'mop dog' that camouflages with sheep. Originally from Hungary, this giant working breed typically weighs 100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as serious, loyal, dignified.

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Irish Water Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Komondor health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues