Irish Water Spaniel

• The Irish Water Spaniel dog breed is the largest in the spaniel family, and recognizable by its long curling hair that covers the entire body except for the face and tail, and its distinctive curly top-knot on the top of the head, which hangs down to cover the eyes. Their dense undercoat insulates them even in very cold water.

• They have a large head, an arched skull, a long muzzle, and a deep but narrow chest. Their feet are webbed, and they are excellent swimmers.

———————— Temperament ————————

• Irish Water Spaniels are easily trained, highly intelligent dogs who love to learn and to please their masters. These dogs have an independent nature and a stubborn streak, but are usually gentle and easy-going.

• Dogs from this breed can be excellent family dogs, but some have a tendency to latch on to one person, and they may be protective and reserved around strangers. They do well with other animals if properly socialized.

• Dogs are quiet, and will rarely bark unless to warn their family of danger.

• Dogs should be properly trained and socialized from a young age to prevent them from becoming suspicious, nervous, or timid.

———————— Height and Weight ————————

• Adult dogs tend to be 20-23 inches tall and weigh around 45-65 pounds.

———————— Living Conditions and Exercise ————————

• The Irish Water Spaniel dog breed does best in the country and suburbs with an average sized lawn. They love to be outdoors and need lots of daily exercise including runs, jogs, or long walks.

• These are energetic hunting dogs, and they enjoy swimming and retrieving.

———————— Life Expectancy ————————

• Well-cared for dogs can be expected to live 10-12 years.

———————— Grooming ————————

• The Irish Water Spaniel's coat needs significant grooming to prevent matting. The coat requires skilled trimming.

• Despite their long hair, these dogs shed very little and have almost no dandruff, so they can be a good choice for allergy sufferers.

———————— History ————————

• There are multiple theories when it comes to the origin of the Irish Water Spaniel dog breed. Most likely it is descended from a cross between the Irish Setter and the Poodle or the Curly-Coated Retriever and the Poodle. The breed has a reputation for being daring retrievers even in the coldest water.

• Dogs are used for upland game, and may even be used to retrieve small birds due to their soft mouth. They were popular for duck hunting in the United States, but have since been replaced by the easier-to-care-for Labrador Retriever. The breed is now rare in the US, but they continue to perform well as showdogs and in competitions.

• Irish Water Spaniels were bred to embody the coveted combination of a sweet family dog and skilled working retriever.

———————— Group and Recognition ————————

• Grouping: Gun Dog, AKC Sporting

• Recognition: CKC, ACR, NKC, APRI, FCI, KCGB, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NZKC

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