Known as the “clown” of the spaniel family, the Irish Water Spaniel is the largest and one of the oldest breeds of spaniels. It is also one of the rarest with only around 500 dogs left in the UK
History: Although the current breed stock are Irish, the ultimate origin of the breed is unknown. It is possible that more than one ancient breed of spaniel has gone into its makeup. Irish Water Spaniels share a common lineage with the Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog, and Barbet, but whether they are antecedents, descendants, or mixtures of these other breeds is a matter of some speculation. What is clear is that the breed has ancient roots. The modern breed as we know it was developed in Ireland in the 1830s.
Appearance: The Irish Water Spaniel presents a picture of a smart, upstanding strongly built sporting dog. Both the face and tail have short hair as contrasted with the long curls of the body. It has a rather large head with an arched skull. The eyes are Medium in size, slightly almond shaped with tight eyelids. Eyes are hazel in color, preferably of a dark shade. The ears are long, lobular, set low, with leathers reaching about to the end of the nose when extended forward. 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. Their coat is also unusual in that it is comprised of hair, not fur (hence the tendency not to shed).
Size: Height: 20-23 inches (51-58cm)
Weight: 45-65 pounds (20-30kg)
Temperament: Irish Water Spaniels are highly intelligent, confident, and devoted. Whilst sometimes cautious of strangers, this breed is very loyal and affectionate to their owners. They usually get on well with children and, if introduced to cats and other pets when young, there should not be any problems. 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. This breed displays a joyous exuberance and zest for life.
Health: Prone to hypo-thyroidism and eye entropion. Be sure the parents were checked for thyroid problems. Avoid timid puppies. They may drool and have ear infections.
Life expectancy: 10-14 years
Grooming: The oily coat consists of dense, permanent curls and needs regular grooming with a wide gauge comb (weekly) to prevent mats forming. They also need washing every few months to keep the coat odour free. Because of the density and curl in their coats, ticks and fleas can remain unnoticed. After a thorough combing, they should either be washed or allowed to swim which puts the curl back into their coats.