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West Highland White Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Westie (or Westy) or Whiptail?

Compare the West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Westie (or Westy) or a Whiptail? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Westie (or Westy), Poltalloch Terrier, Roseneath Terrier, White Roseneath Terrier
Rat Tail Spaniel, Shannon Spaniel, Bog Dog, Whiptail

Weight

What is the average weight of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?
18.0 pounds ( 8 kg )
61.5 pounds ( 28 kg )

Height

What is the average height of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel
11.0 inches ( 27.9 cm )
23.0 inches ( 58.4 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

West Highland White Terrier has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Irish Water Spaniel has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are West Highland White Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels hypoallergenic, or neither?

Yes

Both West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel are hypoallergenic dogs, which make them ideal pets for people who are allergic to pets. Although no dogs are completely hypoallergenic, these breeds come very close and are great choices for those who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel dogs?
Affectionate
Courageous
Friendly
Independent
Alert
Intelligent

Active
Clownish
Intelligent
Alert
Inquisitive
Quick

Shedding Level

Do West Highland White Terriers shed more than Irish Water Spaniels, or which breed sheds more, West Highland White Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels?

West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel 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 West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

West Highland White Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Irish Water Spaniels make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel dog breeds?
Scotland

Ireland

Ancestry

What are the origins of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?
scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers

poodle, portuguese water dog, barbet

Date of Birth

When were West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds first developed?
1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?
Terrier (AKC:1908)(UKC)

Sporting (AKC:1884)
Gun Dogs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel dogs?
Brown

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?
Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?
White

Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

West Highland White Terriers have medium-length coats.

Irish Water Spaniels have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?
Straight

Curly

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?

12-16 puppies per pregnancy

A West Highland White Terrier can have a litter of 12-16 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.

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.

Adaptability

The adaptability of West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel dogs is a well-known trait. They are known for being able to adjust well to different living environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel, which breed is more prone to health problems?

The West Highland White Terrier breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

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.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?
Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Entropion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?
Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Otitis Externa
Entropion
Eye Problems
Hypothyroidism

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?
Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Eye
Hip
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of West Highland White Terriers and Irish Water Spaniels compare?

West Highland White Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Irish Water Spaniels thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

West Highland White Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel social needs comparison

West Highland White Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Irish Water Spaniel has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

West Highland White Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel exercise need comparison.

West Highland White Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Irish Water Spaniels need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

West Highland White Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Irish Water Spaniels are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

West Highland White Terrier minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Irish Water Spaniel has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.

Tendency to Bark

Do West Highland White Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels bark more/less frequently?

West Highland White Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Irish Water Spaniels bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel a better guard dog?

West Highland White Terrier dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

While Irish Water Spaniel dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: West Highland White Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel?

Roaming urge

West Highland White Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel entertained?
Belly rubs, Walking, Petting, Playing, Nap, Walk, Play, Run, Walking slow, Daily walks, River rafting, Camping, Hike

Walking, Swimming, Hunting, Running

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, West Highland White Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels?

Medium

West Highland White Terriers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

High

Irish Water Spaniels are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel walk each week?

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For West Highland White Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

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.

Activity per Day

Do West Highland White Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels require more exercise?

30 minutes

In general most West Highland White Terriers usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

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.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, West Highland White Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels?

West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel are breeds of dogs that require a significant amount of grooming. They will also require regular trims, and a professional groomer's help is often necessary to keep their coat in good condition. They may also need regular baths to maintain their coat and skin.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for West Highland White Terriers and Irish Water Spaniels?
Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel in cups?

1.8 cups

For an average 15-21 pound (7 - 10 kg) West Highland White Terrier feed 1.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

2.5 cups

For an average 55-68 pound (25 - 31 kg) Irish Water Spaniel feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

$1.40 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a West Highland White Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of an Irish Water Spaniel is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a West Highland White Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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.

$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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: West Highland White Terriers vs Irish Water Spaniels

West Highland White Terriers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Irish Water Spaniel is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: West Highland White Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

West Highland White Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Irish Water Spaniels can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do West Highland White Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels have a friendlier temperament towards children?

West Highland White Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Irish Water Spaniels make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

Cat Friendly

Do West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

West Highland White Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Irish Water Spaniels are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

West Highland White Terriers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Irish Water Spaniels are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: West Highland White Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

West Highland White Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Irish Water Spaniels are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?

West Highland White Terriers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Irish Water Spaniels are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of West Highland White Terriers and Irish Water Spaniels compare?

West Highland White Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.

Common match-ups