Irish Bostetter vs. Dunker: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Irish Bostetters or Dunkers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Irish Bostetter nor Dunker are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Irish Bostetter and Dunker dogs?

Playful
Independent
Energetic
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Aggressive
Companionable

Calm
Spirited
Energetic
Friendly

Shedding Level

Do Irish Bostetters shed more than Dunkers, or which breed sheds more, Irish Bostetters or Dunkers?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

Dunkers shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Origin

What is the origin of Irish Bostetter and Dunker dog breeds?

United States

Norway

Ancestry

What are the origins of Irish Bostetter and Dunker breeds?

Boston Terrier and Irish Setter

Russian Harlequin Hound, Norwegian Scent Hounds

Date of Birth

When were Irish Bostetter and Dunker breeds first developed?

Unknown

19th Century

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Irish Bostetter and Dunker dogs?

Brown

Blue
Hazel
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Irish Bostetter and Dunker?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Irish Bostetter and Dunker breeds?

Brindle
Red
White
Black

Black
Blue
Fawn
White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Irish Bostetter and Dunker breeds?

3 / 5

The coat of Irish Bostetter and Dunker dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Irish Bostetter and Dunker?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Irish Bostetter and Dunker?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Irish Bostetter and Dunker?

An Irish Bostetter can have a litter of 7-10 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.

A Dunker 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

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

4 / 5

Dunkers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Irish Bostetter and Dunker, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

While the Irish Bostetter breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

4 / 5

Dunkers 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 Irish Bostetter and Dunker breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Gastric Torsion
Cherry Eye
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Deafness

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Irish Bostetter and Dunker?

Cataract
Megaesophagus
Hypothyroidism
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Corneal Ulcer
vonWillebrand’s Disease

Hip Dysplasia

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Irish Bostetter and Dunker breeds?

Physical Examination
Neurological Examination
Blood Tests
Blood Work
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis
Buccal Mucosal Screening
Orthopedic Exam
Ocular Exam
Hormone Analysis

X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Ear Examination
Hearing Tests

Social Needs

Irish Bostetter vs Dunker social needs comparison

5 / 5

Irish Bostetter has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

4 / 5

Dunker has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Irish Bostetter or Dunker?

2 / 5

Irish Bostetter and Dunker dogs tend to sleep less than some other breeds, but it's still important for them to get adequate sleep in order to maintain good health.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Irish Bostetter vs Dunker?

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Irish Bostetter vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

5 / 5

Prey Drive

Irish Bostetter or Dunker - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Irish Bostetters or Dunkers?

Irish Bostetters 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.

Dunkers 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

1 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Irish Bostetter or Dunker walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Irish Bostetter, it's at least 8 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 Dunker, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Irish Bostetters or Dunkers require more exercise?

Both Irish Bostetter and Dunker typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Irish Bostetters or Dunkers?

3 / 5

The Irish Bostetter requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

2 / 5

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

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Irish Bostetter and Dunker dogs?

Irish Bostetter should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Ideally, Dunker should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Irish Bostetters and Dunkers?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Hemostat
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Irish Bostetter or Dunker in cups?

For an average 35-45 pound (16 - 20 kg) Irish Bostetter 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 25-39 pound (11 - 18 kg) Dunker 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, Irish Bostetter or Dunker?

The average cost of an Irish Bostetter is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

The average cost of a Dunker is somewhere $1.40 - $2.10 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Irish Bostetter or Dunker?

The average per month expenses of an Irish Bostetter is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 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 a Dunker is between $42 - $63. This makes an average of $504 - $756 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.

Sensitivity Level

How do Irish Bostetter and Dunker compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

3 / 5

Dunkers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Irish Bostetter or Dunker?

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

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

Child Friendly

Do Irish Bostetters or Dunkers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Irish Bostetter or Dunker?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Irish Bostetter or Dunker breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

4 / 5

Dunkers are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Irish Bostetter or Dunker?

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

4 / 5

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

Pet friendly

How do Irish Bostetter or Dunker dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Irish Bostetter or Dunker?

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters are highly friendly around strangers.

4 / 5

Dunkers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Irish Bostetter and Dunker?

4 / 5

Irish Bostetter and Dunker are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Irish Bostetter and Dunker is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Irish Bostetters and Dunkers compare?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

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