The Irish Water Spaniel is a bold, curly‑coated retriever‑spaniel—witty, hardworking, and water‑loving. Great for active owners who want a versatile gundog with low shedding and high trainability.
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.
Coat requires routine shaping and maintenance to prevent mats.
High energy—needs daily work and water time.
Quick, clever, and sometimes clownish—channel with consistent, positive methods.
Fuel an athletic, water‑working body.
Choose breeders who screen for hips, eyes, and thyroid.
Seek field‑savvy kennels or consider sporting‑dog rescues.
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.
