Irish Water Spaniel

Formalized in 19th‑century Dublin (notably by Justin McCarthy), the Irish Water Spaniel blended old Irish water dogs into today’s distinctive, rat‑tailed, tightly curled retriever‑spaniel—renowned for water work and intelligence.

Well-balanced with hallmark breed features.

• Weight: 45–68 lb (20–31 kg)
• Height: 21–24 in (53–61 cm)
• Coat type: Tight, crisp curls; water‑resistant single coat; smooth ‘rat’ tail
• Coat colors: Solid liver (dark brown)
• Distinctive traits: Top‑knotted head curls; clean face; strong, athletic body built for water

Coat requires routine shaping and maintenance to prevent mats.

• Brushing: 2–3×/week; detangle carefully.
• Trimming: Regular shaping to maintain outline and hygiene.
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks; rinse after swims.

High energy—needs daily work and water time.

• Daily duration: 60–90 minutes.
• Activities: Retrieving, dock diving, field training, hiking.

Quick, clever, and sometimes clownish—channel with consistent, positive methods.

• Focus areas: Steadiness, impulse control, delivery to hand.
• Approach: Reward‑based with variety.

Fuel an athletic, water‑working body.

• Quantity: ~3–4.5 cups/day in 2 meals; adjust to workload.

Seek field‑savvy kennels or consider sporting‑dog rescues.

• Breeders: Club referrals; verify hips/eyes/thyroid.
• Rescue: Water‑dog networks occasionally place IWS.

Choose breeders who screen for hips, eyes, and thyroid.

• Orthopedic: Hip dysplasia.
• Eyes: Screening recommended.
• Thyroid: Screening recommended.
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years.

Do Irish Water Spaniels shed?
Minimal compared to many breeds; no dog is fully hypoallergenic.

Apartment‑friendly?
With Caveats—needs daily exercise and training.

Good with kids?
Generally affectionate and playful.

How trainable?
High—clever and work‑oriented.

Do they love water?
Yes—purpose‑bred for swimming and retrieving.