Irish Water Spaniel
Updated December 1, 2025
Irish Water Spaniels are skilled water retrievers, making them ideal for hunting and sporting work. They are intelligent, energetic, and loyal dogs that require regular activity and grooming.
Intelligent, Alert, Active, Independent, Loyal
45-68 pounds
21-24 inches
10-12 years
Rich Liver, Dark Liver
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Water Spaniels are skilled water retrievers, making them ideal for hunting and sporting work. They are intelligent, energetic, and loyal dogs that require regular activity and grooming.
What Makes Irish Water Spaniels Special
The Irish Water Spaniel is a spirited, intelligent, and humorous breed known for its clownish personality and athleticism.
They excel in field work and make loyal companions for experienced dog owners who enjoy outdoor activities.
Irish Water Spaniel History & Origin
The Irish Water Spaniel is one of the oldest and rarest spaniel breeds, developed in Ireland in the 1830s by Justin McCarthy. The exact lineage remains unclear but likely includes Poodles and now-extinct water spaniels.
Developed in Ireland in the 19th century, primarily by Justin McCarthy.
Used historically for retrieving waterfowl from lakes and rivers.
Recognized by the AKC in 1884.
Their distinctive appearance and talent in water make them a favorite among enthusiasts.
Irish Water Spaniel Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Irish Water Spaniel Appearance
The Irish Water Spaniel is instantly recognizable due to its dense curls, liver-colored coat, and unique rat tail.
Its proud and alert posture gives it an air of dignity and confidence.
Physical Features
Ears
Long, covered in loose curls, and hang close to the cheeks
Eyes
Almond-shaped, dark hazel, and expressive
Nose
Large, liver-colored nose suitable for scent detection
Coat & Build
Coat Length
Medium, forming dense ringlets
Coat Color
Solid rich liver or dark liver only
Tail
Short, tapering, and smooth, giving a distinctive rat-tail appearance
Irish Water Spaniel Temperament
Irish Water Spaniels are energetic and curious, making them excellent companions for active owners.
They are known for their intelligence and problem-solving skills, though this can sometimes translate to a stubborn streak.
These dogs thrive on mental stimulation and regular exercise. They can be reserved with strangers but are loyal and affectionate with their family.
With proper socialization, they get along well with children and other pets.
Due to their strong hunting instincts and high energy, early training and consistent structure are important.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Generally a healthy breed with some risk of joint and thyroid issues
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Routine vet visits, clean ears, balanced diet, joint supplements as needed
How to Care for a Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Water Spaniels are active and athletic dogs that require daily physical activity, mental engagement, and regular grooming to maintain their curly coat.
Grooming
Brush their coat weekly to prevent matting and tangles, especially behind the ears and under the legs.
Regular trimming is recommended to maintain shape and hygiene.
Check and clean ears regularly due to their floppy nature and susceptibility to infections.
Bathing every month or as needed keeps the coat clean and healthy.
Training
Use positive reinforcement and keep training sessions engaging and varied.
They respond well to structure but may test boundaries due to their independence.
Early socialization is essential to prevent wariness around strangers.
Diet
Feed a balanced, AAFCO-compliant dog food tailored to their activity level and age.
Monitor weight and avoid overfeeding treats to prevent obesity.
Exercise
Engage in 60–90 minutes of daily exercise through walks, runs, and swimming.
Ideal activities include retrieving games, agility, and water sports.
Mental stimulation is also key—puzzle toys and scent-based games work well.
Environment
Best suited for homes with access to outdoor space or near water bodies.
They adapt to different environments if given enough exercise and mental tasks.
Apartment living is possible but not ideal unless exercise needs are strictly met.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Needs open space to run and play
Climate Adaptability
Prefers cool, moderate climates
Apartment Living
Not well suited for small apartments
Best Suited For
Best with active, outdoorsy owners
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Irish Water Spaniels good swimmers?
Yes, they are natural swimmers and love being in the water.
Do Irish Water Spaniels shed a lot?
They shed minimally but require regular grooming due to their curly coat.
Are they easy to train?
Yes, but they can be independent; consistent positive training works best.
Are they hypoallergenic?
While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, their low-shedding coat can be more tolerable for allergy sufferers.
Can they live in an apartment?
Not ideal unless their high exercise needs are met daily.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization, basic training, coat care introduction
Senior Care
Joint supplements, reduced-impact exercise, regular health checks
First-Time Owner Tips
May be challenging due to energy and grooming needs
Looking for a Irish Water Spaniel?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.