Read About Irish Water Spaniel

Previously a well-known hunting dog, the Irish Water Spaniel is now considered a rare breed. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Irish Water Spaniel Summary:

1. Size:

   Large dog

2. Weight:

   Females are 45-58 lbs; males are 55-65 lbs.

3. Coat:

   The Irish Water Spaniel is mostly covered in tight curls. The face, tail, and the ends of the rear legs have short, smooth hair.

4. Shedding:

   This breed sheds little, if at all.

5. Temperament:

   Irish Water Spaniels are smart, confident, and loving dogs; occasional specimens will be independent and self-willed.

6. Obedience:

   These dogs can be obedient, if trained early with consistency, firmness, and kindness.

7. Ease of Training:

   Intelligent and easy to train, the Irish Water Spaniel sometimes needs careful handling for those specimens with a stubborn streak.

8. Way with Children:

   These dogs are only sometimes friendly with children. It is truly a dog-by-dog situation.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Sporting Group/1990

2. Size & Weight:

   Females are 21-23" and 45-58 lbs; males are 22-24" and 55-65 lbs.

3. Coat:

   The Irish Water Spaniel is mostly covered in tight curls. The face, tail, and the ends of the rear legs have short, smooth hair.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   The Irish Water Spaniel's head should look clean (nearly scuplted), with a large, high skull and a long, square muzzle. The dog should have a large, liver-colored nose and a pronounced topknot. The eyes are a dark hazel and have intelligence and curiosity in their gaze. Long, low ears with lots of curls.

5. Body:

   With a solid, rectangular body and some height, the Irish Water Spaniel should be neither overly stocky or leggy

6. Colors:

   Solid liver

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-12 years

8. Popularity:

   Since they are a relatively rare breed in modern times, Irish Water Spaniels are not tremendously popular.

9. Habitat:

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Ireland

2. Historical Information:

   The species originated in the mid-19th C as, primarily, a water retriever. The origins are uncertain. Their hardiness in extremely cold water led to them being one of the most popular sporting breeds in American in 1875. The Irish Water Retrievers' popularity has steadily declined in favor of the Labrador Retriever, however.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Irish Water Spaniels are smart, confident, and loving dogs; occasional specimens will be independent and self-willed.

2. Behavior:

   Irish Water Spaniels are smart and playful; they love to be the center of a family, and will blossom under full attention.

3. Habits:

   The breed can be stubborn and determined; without early socialization with people and other dogs, the breed can also be timid or fearful, which can lead to aggression.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   The most common issues with this breed are epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and hip dysplasia.

2. Exercise Needs:

   These dogs need a lot of exercise -- everything from running and filed work to swimming and romping in water -- on a daily basis.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Irish Water Spaniels require daily brushing, as their fur will mat. They also need professional clipping frequently to look and feel their best.

4. Travel Needs:

   A large and sometimes stubborn breed, Irish Water Spaniels need extra attention during travel.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   The Irish Water Spaniel is only sometimes friendly with other pets and children. It is truly a dog-by-dog situation.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, curly coats, and tons of energy.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.