IRISH WATER SPANIEL
APPEARANCE
The dogs are strongly built, and a bit taller and more squarish than other spaniels. The coat, consisting of dense curls, sheds very little. The colour is liver/puce and has a very definite purple hue unlike the colour of any other known breed. There is a curly topknot upon the head and the face is smooth. The most distinguishing characteristic of these dogs is their not-too-long “rat-like” tails, which are a striking contrast to their otherwise curly coats. In terms of height the Irish Water Spaniel reaches around 21-23 inches for females, and 22-24 inches for males. These dogs weigh in at 45-60 pounds for females and 55-65 pounds for males.
PERSONALITY
This is an active breed that is usually found in a real working retriever environment. The Irish Water Spaniel is a comical breed that will make a wonderful companion as long as they are raised by an owner who is firm yet fair. They demand attention and are a “whole family” dog. This is a breed that truly enjoys human contact.
TRAINING
They are intelligent, quick to learn, alert, and inquisitive. The Irish Water Spaniel can be stubborn and independent which can make training difficult, although this is somewhat offset by the dog’s intelligence and desire to please. It is suggested that these dogs be given short training lessons multiple times per day so they have time to think about the commands and have the concepts sink in.
EXERCISE
This breed will need at least an hour per day of exercise and this can be done at an off-leash park where they can run and stretch their legs. They require access to water to swim, an activity they specialize in. Make sure he gets a chance to exhaust himself every day.
SOCIALIZATION
These dogs will get along well with children, particularly children that they have been brought up with, but tend to be wary around strangers. When it comes to other pets some Irish Water Spaniels can be aggressive, particularly with other dogs - again early socialization is an important consideration if you have other pets. They are generally quiet and bark only when necessary. The Irish Water Spaniel is protective, reserved, and wary with strangers. However, they are not aggressive.
LIVING CONDITIONS
This breed is not recommended for apartment dwelling. They would do best in the suburbs or country. At the very least, they should have an average-sized yard to play in.
GROOMING
Although their coats do grow to medium length, the dogs do not need daily brushing. You should brush the coat of the Irish Water Spaniel several times a week. A once-a-month trim with scissors to remove straggly ends, a comb to remove mats, then a swim to curl up the coat again, is all that is usually required. These dogs are known to be well suited for those with allergies, as they are low shedders.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Irish Water Spaniel is around 10-12 years. Known health issues in the breed include canine hip dysplasia, otitis externa and distichiasis. Generally this breed is quite healthy but the parents medical history should be checked just for the potential owners awareness of any inheritable diseases.
HISTORY
The Irish Water Spaniel originated in Ireland and was bred to retrieve game from lakes or rivers. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1878.
