Flat Coated Retriever vs Irish Water Spaniel
| Attribute | Flat Coated Retriever | Irish Water Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Height | 56 - 62 cm | 53 - 61 cm |
| Weight | 29 kg | 26 kg |
| Life Expectancy | 9 years | 13 years |
| FCI Group | Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs | Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs |
| Grooming | Low | Medium |
| Shedding | Medium | None |
| Energy Level | Very high | High |
| Trainability | High | Medium |
| Child Friendly | High | Medium |
| Character | The Flat Coated Retriever is a lively and cheerful companion known for its friendly nature and lasting playfulness. | The Irish Water Spaniel is an intelligent and lively dog with a friendly and attentive nature. |
How we compare
This comparison is based on structured breed data from our Hundeo profiles and editorial fit criteria. It is meant as orientation, not as a substitute for individual advice from a trainer or veterinarian.
- Data basis: size, weight, life expectancy, FCI group, and profile details come from maintained breed profiles.
- Everyday fit: grooming, activity, trainability, child-friendliness, and living situation are evaluated as guidance for common owner questions.
- Independence: breed comparisons do not contain paid placements; recommendations follow the criteria, not commissions.
- Limits: every dog is individual. Health, behavior, and training questions should be discussed with a veterinarian or qualified trainer when needed.
Comparison
Flat Coated Retriever
Irish Water Spaniel
- 1Energy LevelFlat Coated Retriever5/5Irish Water Spaniel4/5
- 2TrainabilityFlat Coated Retriever4/5Irish Water Spaniel3/5
- 3Child FriendlyFlat Coated Retriever4/5Irish Water Spaniel3/5
- 4GroomingFlat Coated Retriever2/5Irish Water Spaniel3/5
- 5SheddingFlat Coated Retriever3/5Irish Water Spaniel1/5
Summary
The Flat Coated Retriever is a large dog (29 kg) with a life expectancy of 9 years. The Irish Water Spaniel is large (26 kg) and lives 13 years. For grooming, the Flat Coated Retriever rates low, the Irish Water Spaniel medium. The Flat Coated Retriever scores high for child-friendliness, the Irish Water Spaniel medium. For beginners, the Flat Coated Retriever is the better choice. The Irish Water Spaniel is lower-maintenance overall.
Which breed is a better fit?
For BeginnersFlat Coated Retriever has high trainability with very high energy
Flat Coated RetrieverFor FamiliesFlat Coated Retriever has high child-friendliness
Flat Coated RetrieverFor Active PeopleFlat Coated Retriever has very high energy level
Flat Coated Retriever
Low MaintenanceIrish Water Spaniel: grooming medium, shedding none
Irish Water SpanielFor ApartmentsIrish Water Spaniel is large with high energy
Irish Water SpanielFrequently Asked Questions
The Flat Coated Retriever is a large dog (29 kg) with very high energy. The Irish Water Spaniel is large (26 kg) with high energy. The Flat Coated Retriever lives 9 years, the Irish Water Spaniel 13 years.