Bullmastiff vs. Irish Water Spaniel: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel?

5 / 5

Bullmastiff tends to gain weight easily, needs increased exercise and playtime along with controlled food intake.

3 / 5

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

Hypoallergenic

Are Bullmastiffs or Irish Water Spaniels hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Bullmastiff is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

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.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel dogs?

Alert
Courageous
Docile
Loyal
Reliable
Calm
Devoted
Powerful
Protective

Active
Clownish
Intelligent
Alert
Inquisitive
Quick

Shedding Level

Do Bullmastiffs shed more than Irish Water Spaniels, or which breed sheds more, Bullmastiffs or Irish Water Spaniels?

3 / 5

Bullmastiffs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

1 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel?

5 / 5

Choose a Bullmastiff if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

4 / 5

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

Origin

What is the origin of Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel dog breeds?

England

Ireland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

mastiff, bulldogs

poodle, portuguese water dog, barbet

Date of Birth

When were Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel breeds first developed?

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel?

Working (AKC:1934)
Guardian Dogs (UKC)

Sporting (AKC:1884)
Gun Dogs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel dogs?

Hazel

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

Red
Fawn
Brindle

Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

1 / 5

Bullmastiffs have short coats.

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel?

Straight

Curly

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel?

A Bullmastiff can have a litter of 8-10 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.

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

3 / 5

Bullmastiffs have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel, which breed is more prone to health problems?

5 / 5

The Bullmastiff 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.

4 / 5

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 Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

Gastric Torsion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Cancer

Entropion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel?

Entropion
Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Otitis Externa
Entropion
Eye Problems
Hypothyroidism

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

Hip
Elbow
Blood Test
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Eye
Hip
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Bullmastiffs and Irish Water Spaniels compare?

2 / 5

Bullmastiffs are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

5 / 5

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

Social Needs

Bullmastiff vs Irish Water Spaniel social needs comparison

3 / 5

Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel 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

Bullmastiff vs Irish Water Spaniel exercise need comparison.

2 / 5

Bullmastiffs need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

5 / 5

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: Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

Bullmastiffs are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

1 / 5

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

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel?

5 / 5

Bullmastiff excessively drools, consider a different breed if not appealing.

2 / 5

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

Tendency to Bark

Do Bullmastiffs or Irish Water Spaniels bark more/less frequently?

1 / 5

Bullmastiffs are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

3 / 5

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 Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel a better guard dog?

5 / 5

Bullmastiff 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.

3 / 5

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: Bullmastiff vs Irish Water Spaniel?

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Bullmastiff vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel entertained?

Walking, Catch treats, Train, Jumping, Fetch, Walk, Run, Playing, Chasing, Greeting, Belly rubs, Running, Sniff, Nap, Snuggle, Eating Snacks, Sniffing, Swim, Water, Nose work, Play, Go to Beach, Go to Park, Frisbee, Go Camping, Groom, Hike, Fish, Chase, Bath time

Walking, Swimming, Hunting, Running

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Bullmastiffs or Irish Water Spaniels?

Bullmastiffs 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.

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

3 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Bullmastiff, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

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 Bullmastiffs or Irish Water Spaniels require more exercise?

In general most Bullmastiffs usually need at least 40 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

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, Bullmastiffs or Irish Water Spaniels?

2 / 5

The Bullmastiff has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

4 / 5

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.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Bullmastiffs and Irish Water Spaniels?

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel in cups?

For an average 110-133 pound (50 - 60 kg) Bullmastiff feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

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, Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel?

The average cost of a Bullmastiff is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per 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, Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel?

The average per month expenses of a Bullmastiff is between $56 - $84. This makes an average of $672 - $1008 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.

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: Bullmastiffs vs Irish Water Spaniels

2 / 5

Bullmastiff has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniel is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Bullmastiff 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: Bullmastiff vs Irish Water Spaniel?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel?

3 / 5

Bullmastiffs are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

2 / 5

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

Child Friendly

Do Bullmastiffs or Irish Water Spaniels have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Bullmastiffs are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

5 / 5

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 - Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

1 / 5

Bullmastiffs are not cat friendly.

2 / 5

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: Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel?

1 / 5

Bullmastiffs are not dog-friendly.

2 / 5

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

Pet friendly

How do Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel dogs interact with other pets?

1 / 5

2 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Bullmastiff or Irish Water Spaniel?

3 / 5

Bullmastiffs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

2 / 5

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

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Bullmastiff and Irish Water Spaniel?

2 / 5

Bullmastiffs are not known for being a highly playful breed.

4 / 5

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Bullmastiffs and Irish Water Spaniels compare?

3 / 5

Bullmastiffs are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.