Irish Water Spaniel vs Scottish Terrier
Sporting · Large vs Terrier · Small
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
Scottish TerrierSmall
An independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'.
Weight: 19–22 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Irish Water Spaniel is the larger breed at 55–68 lbs (males) vs 19–22 lbs for the Scottish Terrier.
- • The Scottish Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Irish Water Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Irish Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Irish Water Spaniel | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Terrier |
Size | Large | Small |
Origin | Ireland | Scotland |
Height (male) | 22–24" | 10" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 10" |
Weight (male) | 55–68 lbs | 19–22 lbs |
Weight (female) | 45–58 lbs | 18–21 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–13 years | 12–15 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) | 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) | 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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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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 Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 19–22 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, independent, spirited.
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Irish Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism
Scottish Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Scotty cramp
- • Von Willebrand's disease
- • Bladder cancer