Irish Water Spaniel vs Pointer Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Bog Dog or English Pointer?
Compare the Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Bog Dog or a English Pointer? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Rat Tail Spaniel, Shannon Spaniel, Bog Dog, Whiptail
English Pointer
Weight
What is the average weight of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer?
61.5 pounds
( 28 kg )
60.0 pounds
( 27 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer
23.0 inches
( 58.4 cm )
23.0 inches
( 58.4 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer?
The Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer breeds have an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.
Hypoallergenic
Are Irish Water Spaniels or Pointers hypoallergenic, or neither?
Yes
While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Irish Water Spaniels are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.
No
Unfortunately, the Pointer is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer dogs?
Active Clownish Intelligent Alert Inquisitive Quick
Active Amiable Kind Intelligent Affectionate Outright Tempered Loyal
Shedding Level
Do Irish Water Spaniels shed more than Pointers, or which breed sheds more, Irish Water Spaniels or Pointers?
Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer?
Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, these breeds are going to make sure everyone knows about it.
Origin
What is the origin of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer dog breeds?
Ireland
England
Ancestry
What are the origins of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer breeds?
poodle, portuguese water dog, barbet
Pointer, Hound, Newfoundland Dog, Setter, Bulldog
Date of Birth
When were Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer breeds first developed?
1800s
1600s
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer?
Sporting (AKC:1884) Gun Dogs (UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer dogs?
Brown Amber
Hazel Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer?
Black Brown
Black Brown Isabella
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer breeds?
Brown
Black Brown White Isabella
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer breeds?
Irish Water Spaniels have longer coats compared to most dogs.
Pointers have short coats.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer?
Curly
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer?
10-12 puppies per pregnancy
An Irish Water Spaniel can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
12-15 puppies per pregnancy
A Pointer can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
Irish Water Spaniels are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.
Pointers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Health Issues
Between Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer, which breed is more prone to health problems?
Irish Water Spaniels typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.
The Pointer is prone to health issues and requires regular check-ups with a vet to identify and treat any problems early.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer breeds?
Entropion Elbow Dysplasia Hip Dysplasia Hypothyroidism
Hip Dysplasia
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer?
What occasional tests are recommended for Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer breeds?
Eye Hip Thyroid Tests X-Rays Eye Examination
Cardiac Hip Heart X-Rays Eye Examination Physical Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Irish Water Spaniels and Pointers compare?
Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.
Social Needs
Irish Water Spaniel vs Pointer social needs comparison
Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.
Exercise Needed
Irish Water Spaniel vs Pointer exercise need comparison.
The Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer breeds need a high level of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They also make great companions for people who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy running, hiking, or other outdoor activities. These breeds are not suitable for people with a sedentary lifestyle or those who live in small apartments.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer?
Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer?
Irish Water Spaniel has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.
Pointer minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do Irish Water Spaniels or Pointers bark more/less frequently?
Irish Water Spaniel and Pointers tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.
Territorial
Is the Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer a better guard dog?
While Irish Water Spaniel dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.
Pointer dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Irish Water Spaniel vs Pointer?
Roaming urge
Irish Water Spaniel vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer entertained?
Walking, Swimming, Hunting, Running
Walking, Play, Sniffing, Other dogs, Walk, Run, Running, Marking
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Irish Water Spaniels or Pointers?
High
Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer are high-energy dogs that require a lot of mental and physical exercise. Without proper stimulation and attention, these breeds can become problematic. If you're considering these breeds, be prepared to invest time and effort in their exercise and training.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer walk each week?
15 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Irish Water Spaniel, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
12 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Pointer, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Irish Water Spaniels or Pointers require more exercise?
90 minutes
In general most Irish Water Spaniels usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
45 minutes
In general most Pointers usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Irish Water Spaniels or Pointers?
Irish Water Spaniels require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.
The Pointer is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for Irish Water Spaniels and Pointers?
Pin Brush Comb Nail Clipper
Pin Brush Scissors Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer in cups?
2.5 cups
Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer share the same recommended daily food intake of 2.5 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer?
$2.50 - $3.20 / day
The average cost of an Irish Water Spaniel is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.
$1.70 - $2.00 / day
The average cost of a Pointer is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer?
$74 - $95 / month
The average per month expenses of an Irish Water Spaniel is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
$48 - $63 / month
The average per month expenses of a Pointer is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Irish Water Spaniels vs Pointers
Irish Water Spaniel is a very intelligent and trainable breed.
Pointers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.
Sensitivity Level
How do Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer compare in sensitivity?
This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.
Pointers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Irish Water Spaniel vs Pointer?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer?
Irish Water Spaniels can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.
The Pointer is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.
Child Friendly
Do Irish Water Spaniels or Pointers have a friendlier temperament towards children?
The typical characteristics of Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer?
Cat Friendly
Do Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Irish Water Spaniels are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.
Pointers are not cat friendly.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer?
Irish Water Spaniels are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.
Pointers are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.
Pet friendly
How do Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Irish Water Spaniel or Pointer?
They can be below average friendly around strangers, being keen of eye and sharp of tongue, and very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer may be friendly and outgoing, while others can be standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Irish Water Spaniel and Pointer?
Irish Water Spaniels are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.
Pointers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Irish Water Spaniels and Pointers compare?
Irish Water Spaniels are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.
The Pointer is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.
