Irish Water Spaniel vs Whippet
Sporting · Large vs Hound · Medium
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
WhippetMedium
An affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too.
Weight: 25–40 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Irish Water Spaniel is the larger breed at 55–68 lbs (males) vs 25–40 lbs for the Whippet.
- • The Whippet typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Irish Water Spaniel sheds less.
- • The Irish Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Irish Water Spaniel | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Hound |
Size | Large | Medium |
Origin | Ireland | England |
Height (male) | 22–24" | 19–22" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 18–21" |
Weight (male) | 55–68 lbs | 25–40 lbs |
Weight (female) | 45–58 lbs | 25–40 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–13 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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 Whippet
The Whippet is an affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too. Originally from England, this medium hound breed typically weighs 25–40 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, calm.
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Irish Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism
Whippet health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Heart disease
- • Eye conditions
- • Anesthesia sensitivity