Irish Bull Terrier vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Irish Bull Terrier vs Basque Shepherd - Breed ComparisonBasque Shepherd is originated from Spain but Irish Bull Terrier is originated from United Kingdom. Basque Shepherd may grow 13 cm / 6 inches higher than Irish Bull Terrier. Basque Shepherd may weigh 11 kg / 25 pounds more than Irish Bull Terrier. Both Basque Shepherd and Irish Bull Terrier has almost same life span. Both Basque Shepherd and Irish Bull Terrier has almost same litter size. Basque Shepherd requires Moderate Maintenance. But Irish Bull Terrier requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Terrier dog
undefined
Spain
United Kingdom
Height Male:
47 - 61 cm
18 - 25 inches
43 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
Height Female:
46 - 59 cm
18 - 24 inches
43 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
Weight Male:
17 - 29 kg
37 - 64 pounds
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
Weight Female:
17 - 36 kg
37 - 80 pounds
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
12 - 16 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 9
5 - 10
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Basque Herder, Basque Sheepdog
Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Colors Available:
fawn, yellow orange or copper coat with other shades being red, blue and black
fawn, black and brindle, Red
Coat:
smooth and soft to rough and coarse
Short and smooth
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

basque shepherdThe Basque Shepherd is one of the oldest dog breeds. With this Spanish dog, you’ll find paintings dating back 12,000 years ago. The Basque Shepherd is known as a landrace breed, which means the dog hasn’t gone through the same selective breeding programs as what other breeds have. Landrace breeds have more variations in appearance and temperament than regular breeds.

The Basque Shepherd has 2 distinct varieties, the Gorbeiakoa and the Iletsua. The smooth-haired Gorbeiakoa has a softer coat that is fairly short while the rougher-haired Iletsua has a lighter coloured coat, and unlike the Gorbeiakoa, the ears are not typically erect.

Even though this is an ancient breed of dog, only the Royal Canine Society of Spain recognizes the breed with the two varieties, and in January 1996, the two breeds - Iletsua and Gorbeikoa – were recognized.

irish bull terrierThe Irish Bull Terrier is a variant of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and is also known as the Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrie.

The dog isn’t particularly well known outside of Ireland and it is also unrecognized by any kennel clubs, although there are some dog organizations which recognize the Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier and this includes the Dog Registry of America as well as the United National Kennel Club.

Although descended from the Irish Bulldog and the original Staffordshire Pit Terrier, the breed has also been influenced by other dog breeds such as the English White Terrier among others.

Description

Two Varieties

basque shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Basque Shepherd is a strong, well proportioned dog with brown eyes and medium sized ears, which sometimes have folds. This medium-to-large dog has a beautiful fawn coat of medium-length hair that can be straight or slightly wavy. He has a long feathery tail that will wag readily when he sees his owner. You’ll find other colors for the Basque Shepherd shared between the two varieties - a yellow orange or copper coat with other shades being red, blue and black. His hair is shorter on the head and he doesn’t battle with hair over the eyes.

An Intelligent Breed

The Basque Shepherd is a highly intelligent dog and also very energetic. Of the two different kinds of Basque Shepherd, it is the Gorbeiakoa which is the more outgoing. The dogs will require a firm owner and they thrive on the discipline when it is combined with lots of with lots of exercise and activities.

The Basque Shepherd is generally friendly with people, if not a little reserved with strangers. He gets on well with children and other pets in the home, although socialization and training will be necessary to bring out their best.

irish bull terrier puppy - descriptionBred essentially for dog fighting, the Irish Bull Terrier, known also as the Irish Staffie, is a medium sized dog which stands at roughly 43 to 48cm and weighs in at anything from 14kg to 18kg.

The dog is muscular, lean and strong with a strong jaw, deep chest, a broad head, short muzzle with round, brown eyes. The ears are half-erect and he has a long, straight tail. The coat of the dog is short and smooth and in different shades of red, fawn, black and brindle. Sometimes there are white markings.

Temperament:

The Irish Staffie has an aggressive temperament when it comes to fighting other dogs, but he loves being with a human family, being a social dog.

Those who have owned the dog say he is a courageous, confident, strong-willed, affectionate, loyal pet who is playful and loves getting up to mischief. He is intelligent too and can be easily trained and socialized, getting on well with children in the home.

This dog seems to have a constant grin on his face and he just loves life. He loves working hard and playing hard and even though he has a history of fighting, with people he is loving and devoted.

He is boisterous and better suited to a strong-minded, active family as he tends to be stubborn, wanting his own way. He can adapt well to life in the city or the country, but wherever he lives, he will require his owners to give him a good amount of exercise.

Characteristics

basque shepherd dog - characteristicsThe dog is well suited to being a family pet, loving to spend time with family, being a people-oriented breed. He gets on well with children as well as other pets in the home, but can be reserved with strangers.

He doesn’t have an aggressive nature, and yet he does what it takes to protect his beloved human family.

He is full of energy, hardy and tough. He loves his human family and wants to be included in all their activities. He is energetic though and as a responsible dog owner, you want to make sure that your Basque Shepherd has enough space to run.

irish bull terrier dog - characteristicsLots of contact from his human family is what your Irish Bull Terrier will want from you. He is a loving, social dog and close human contact as well as lots of good food and exercise is what he will require from you.

With training and socialization he becomes an awesomely obedient pet, getting on well with adults and children in the home. He is such an entertaining, happy dog and once you've had an Irish Bull Terrier you will find your home empty without one.

Health Problems

basque shepherd puppies - health problemsBecause this is an ancient breed, the Basque Shepherd doesn’t have to contend with genetic health problems such as more modern breeds. Just like other dogs though, he could be prone to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, ear infections and cancer. As a larger breed, he may also be prone to bloat.

Chronic Ear Infections

Breeds with floppy ears, such as the Basque Shepherd will be more prone to developing ear infections. To prevent infection, keep his ears clean and dry. If you’re unsure, the vet can guide you how- and what to do.

Hip Dysplasia

This is a disease which is common to other dog breeds too and not just the Basque Shepherd. This condition affects the hip joints and can result in chronic pain for the dog and also lameness. Checking your dog’s weight is important and the pain can be managed with medication.

irish bull terrier puppies - health problemsLooked after well, your Irish Bull Terrier can reach 14, 15 or 16 years of age. Just like with other dogs, he is prone to some common dog illnesses, of which eye illnesses can be one.

Glaucoma:

Production and drainage of fluid is supposed to be balanced in the eye, and Glaucoma comes about when this balance is disrupted. Symptoms include red eye, pain, increased tear production and corneal cloudiness. Your vet may recommend treatment that will decrease inflammation in the eye.

Cataracts:

The lens of the eye is usually clear but sometimes it develops a cloudy cataract which blocks light from reaching the back of the eye. The result is poor vision and even blindness. Cataract surgery is available for dogs and your vet can advise you further.

Caring The Pet

basque shepherd dogs - caringThis is a medium to large breed dog and he should therefore be fed a high quality food which has been formulated for medium to large breeds. Because he is a herding dog, you might want to also look at an active-dog or working-breed formula to supply him with that much needed energy.

Grooming

The Basque Shepherd’s coat is lush and long with either straight or wavy hair. Regular brush at least twice a week will maintain the coat, get rid of loose hair and prevent fleas.

Training

The Basque Shepherd is an intelligent breed that will respond well to socialization and training. He is a breed that loves sports too because of this very high energy levels. You need to be careful with the Basquae Shepherd around small children, not because he is aggressive in any way, but because he is highly active, and his exuberance and boisterous antics could see him unintentionally knocking over small children.

Grooming:

irish bull terrier dogs - caringAn Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier isn't going to require you spending a lot of money on him in terms of grooming. He is a low maintenance dog and his short, smooth coat will only require a good brush once or twice a week as he isn't a heavy shedder.

Brushing him has several advantages – he loves the attention you’re giving him, its a time to check on fleas and ticks and it is excellent conditioning therapy for his coat. A damp cloth can also be used to wipe him down, and this is far better than bathing him with a shampoo that could aggravate his skin.

Exercise:

Your Irish Bull Terrier is an energetic breed and he certainly won't do well in a home where the family leaves him to his own devices day after day in the back yard.

Social and energetic, your pet will want to join you with your daily walks and he finds a ball irresistible. As a responsible dog owner, you will need to see that he gets a fair quota of exercise otherwise you should rather settle for a less active breed.

Diet:

It goes without saying that such an active dog will require a good diet so ensure he can remain happy and active. Always try and feed your pet the best quality food there is.

If its commercially manufactured food, make sure its high quality and isn’t packed with unwholesome fillers and preservatives. Your vet can always offer sound advice on this aspect.

Some homemade food such as cooked chicken, brown rice and vegetables added to his kibble will do him the world of good and if you can afford it, mix in some raw meat from time to time. Make sure he has access to fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Basque Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Basque Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Basque Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Basque Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Basque Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Basque Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Basque Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Basque Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Basque Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Basque Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Basque Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Basque Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Basque Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Basque Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Basque Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Basque Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Basque Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Basque Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Basque Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Basque Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Basque Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Basque Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Basque Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Basque Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Basque Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Irish Bull Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Irish Bull Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Irish Bull Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Irish Bull Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Irish Bull Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Irish Bull Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Irish Bull Terrier vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Irish Bull Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Irish Bull Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Irish Bull Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Irish Bull Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Irish Bull Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Irish Bull Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Irish Bull Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Irish Bull Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Irish Bull Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Irish Bull Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Irish Bull Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Irish Bull Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Irish Bull Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Irish Bull Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Irish Bull Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Irish Bull Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Irish Bull Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Irish Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison