Irish Water Spaniel

Group: Gundog
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Exercise: Medium
Grooming: Medium
Trainability: Medium
Area of Origin: Ireland
Date of Origin: 1800s
Original Function: Water retrieving

History
The Irish Water Spaniel is the only survivor of the original water spaniels in Ireland. It dates to the early 1800s, with its likely ancestors possibly including the Curly-Coated Retriever, Portuguese Water Spaniels, Poodles, and/or the Irish Setter; on the other hand, some historians claim that this dog is one of the ancestors of the Poodle. It was used as a water fowl retriever, and being a tireless and strong swimmer, it could easily handle the retrieval of large geese from the water.

Temperament
The Irish Water Spaniel is intelligent, easy to train, and possesses a desire to please. Many are loving family dogs, but some are one person dogs. It can have a mind of its own, but generally is easy-going and gentle. Some are good guard dogs. It generally does well with other pets if properly introduced, but tends to be fairly dog-aggressive. Reserved and protective with strangers, it should be well-socialised as a puppy and does best with older considerate children. The Irish Water Spaniel is a quiet dog, barking only when necessary to warn the family. An excellent swimmer, he has considerable stamina and drive, and a very good nose. Some are timid, nervous, or suspicious, and can be prone to snapping when startled or annoyed.

Upkeep
This active, athletic, inquisitive breed needs lots of mental and physical exertion to keep it from becoming frustrated or bored. An hour of free running or strenuous playing a day is necessary to satisfy its needs. Obedience work can also be helpful in giving it the mental challenges it enjoys. The curly coat needs brushing and combing two to three times a week, plus scissoring every few months. Like all dogs, it loses its coat periodically; however, the hairs tend to become trapped in the other hairs rather than fall off. If not combed out, they will form mats and cords. This breed may drool and slobber. 

Breeders

Unfortunately there are no known breeders of the Irish Water Spaniel at this time. Please take a look at some alternative suggestions below or if you know of a registered breeder please contact us.

You may also like…

• Portuguese Water Dog

• Spanish Water Dog

• Lagotto Romagnolo

Breed information sourced from: https://www.dogsnz.org.nz
Images sourced from Google Images.
No copyright infringement intended.