Irish Water Spaniel

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson

Average size and lifespan

chihuahua silouette
great dane silouette
Height: 1ft 8in - 2ft 0in
Weight: 45-65lbs
Lifespan: 10 - 12 Years

Behavior

  • Affection5/5
  • Kid-Friendly3/5
  • Stranger-Friendly4/5
  • Dog-Friendly3/5
  • Barking Amount1/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty2/5
  • Shedding Amount3/5
  • Easy to Train5/5
  • Can Be Alone3/5
  • Exercise Need5/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance4/5
  • Heat Tolerance4/5
  • Apartment-Friendly3/5

Irish Water Spaniel Information

Irish Water SpanielThe Irish Water Spaniel is a distinctive-looking breed that stands out for its tightly curled, liver-colored coat; a tapered, rodent-looking tail; and clean-cut face with a head of long, loose curls. The breed’s ancestry dates as far back as 7th century A.D. and today it is the tallest of all the Spaniels.

Like other Spaniels, this pup is smart, eager to please and easy to train, making him an ideal hunting dog. He is hardworking in the field and affectionate at home. The breed’s hypoallergenic coat makes it an ideal choice for families with allergy sufferers. Fun fact: those curls aren’t just pretty to look at, they also serve a function by repelling water.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breeds stats. However, please let us know if we made an error in the stats, we appreciate your help!

Breed FAQs

Can Irish Water Spaniels be apartment dogs?

Irish Water Spaniels aren't ideal for apartments, but might be able to live there successfully if there are enough opportunities to find larger spaces nearby to play.

Can Irish Water Spaniels be left alone?

While Irish Water Spaniels prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Irish Water Spaniels good with kids?

Irish Water Spaniels can do fine with kids. They will require some monitoring and training to make sure they get along and react well to unpredictable behavior.

Are Irish Water Spaniels friendly with strangers?

Typically, Irish Water Spaniels are friendly with strangers. They tend to be open and willing to trust those they don't know.

Do Irish Water Spaniels get along with other dogs?

Although Irish Water Spaniels will mostly get along with other dogs, they may have some issues. They can typically be dealt with by socializing them with other dogs.

Do Irish Water Spaniels bark a lot?

Irish Water Spaniels don't bark very often of may never bark. Most barking is trained or in extreme situations.

Do Irish Water Spaniels shed a lot?

Irish Water Spaniels shed a medium amount. They will have seasonal shedding, but aren't terrible to clean up after.

Do Irish Water Spaniels need a lot of grooming?

Irish Water Spaniels don't require very much effort for grooming. You'll just need to provide typical maintenance and baths.

Do Irish Water Spaniels need a lot of exercise?

Expect Irish Water Spaniels to have high energy levels and need a lot of exercise. You'll need to find options to release this energy or they may exibit bad behavior.

Are Irish Water Spaniels easy to train?

The Irish Water Spaniel is smart and extremely trainable. They will learn commands quickly and love the bond of training with their owner.

Can Irish Water Spaniels handle cold weather?

Irish Water Spaniels do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they'll do well in colder climates.

Can Irish Water Spaniels handle hot weather?

Irish Water Spaniels do well in hot climates and can stay out longer without overheating.

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