Giant Schnauzer vs Irish Water Spaniel: full comparison
| Trait | Giant Schnauzer | Irish Water Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Energy level | High | High |
| Trainability | High | Medium |
| Friendliness | Medium | Medium |
| Good with children | Medium | Medium |
| Grooming needs | Very High | Very High |
| Shedding | Low | Low |
| Barking | Medium | Medium |
| Protectiveness | Very High | Medium |
| Adaptability | Medium | Medium |
| Typical lifespan | 12 years | 12 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No | Yes |
Key differences at a glance
- The Giant Schnauzer has noticeably higher protectiveness than the Irish Water Spaniel.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Giant Schnauzer if you want a more protective, watchful guardian or you want an easier dog to train.
Choose the Irish Water Spaniel if you need a hypoallergenic, low-dander coat.
Not sure which breed is right for you?
Take the DoggyQ quiz and get a personalised match from 200+ breeds based on your lifestyle, home and preferences.
Find your perfect match Try the free quizFrequently asked questions
- Is the Giant Schnauzer or the Irish Water Spaniel better for families with children?
- Both the Giant Schnauzer and the Irish Water Spaniel are considered good with children when properly socialised and supervised.
- Which sheds more, the Giant Schnauzer or the Irish Water Spaniel?
- The Giant Schnauzer and Irish Water Spaniel shed a similar amount (low).
- Which is easier to train, the Giant Schnauzer or the Irish Water Spaniel?
- The Giant Schnauzer is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.