IRISH WATER SPANIEL

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Temperament: Playful, Hardworking, Brave

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 159 of 197

Height: 22-24 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)

Weight: 55-68 pounds (male), 45-58 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 12-13 years

Group: Sporting Group

ABOUT THE IRISH WATER SPANIEL

Whether they’re splashing after ducks or showing off in the agility ring, canines of the Irish Water Spaniel dog breed do everything with a sense of fun. Created in Ireland as a water retriever, they’re rare these days but make excellent companions for active and experienced dog owners, especially if they live near a body of water.

The Irish Water Spaniel (IWS) can be the perfect companion for an active family with the time to socialize, train, and exercise him. He’ll be a devoted, loving member of the family and will entertain all with his clownish and mischievous attitude toward life.

PERSONALITY

True to his spaniel nature, the IWS is alert and inquisitive. Unlike many spaniels, however, he may be reserved toward strangers, although he should never be shy or aggressive. Irish Water Spaniels are highly trainable, but they’re independent thinkers and will do their best to get their own way whenever possible. This is especially true with young males testing their status. For this reason, they are probably not the best choice for a first-time dog owner who may not understand how to provide the guidance and sensible discipline this dog needs.

NUTRITION

The Irish Water Spaniel should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity.

HEALTH

There are desease that your IWS could be prone to:

Hip Dysplasia

Cataracts

Follicular Dysplasia

Hypothyroidism

Allergies

Entropion

Paronychia

Distichiasis

Megaesophagus

Epilepsy

Drug Sensitivity

Vaccination Sensitivity

CARE

A typical sporting dog, the Irish Water Spaniel is an active, high-energy companion. He is eager to please, making him relatively easy to train, but he needs lots of daily exercise. Long walks or hikes, running alongside a bicycle, chasing a ball in the backyard, or playing with other dogs daily will help to keep him physically and mentally healthy, and relaxed and calm while inside the home.

GROOMING

Begin grooming the Irish Water Spaniel when he is still a puppy and may not need a lot done yet. He should learn early on that grooming time is a positive experience. Gentle brushing and nail and ear cleaning should always be part of the grooming regimen. Suitable for allergy sufferers, the breed’s hypoallergenic coat requires brushing at least weekly and trimming every two months to neaten and shape it.

Source: dogtime, akc.