Irish Water Spaniel
Family: gundog, spaniel
Area of origin: Ireland
Original function: water retrieving
Average size of male: Ht: 22-24, Wt: 55-65
Average size of female: Ht: 21-23, Wt: 45-58
Other names: none
Irish Water Spaniel Dog Temperament
The Irish water spaniel goes at everything in life with gusto and enthusiasm. He loves to swim, run, hunt and play and needs a lot of exercise. A clown at heart, he can be stubborn and independent, so he needs to be trained with patience, firmness and a sense of humor. He is generally good with children, though some can be timid.
Irish Water Spaniel Dog Care
This active, athletic, inquisitive breed needs lots of mental and physical exertion to keep him from becoming frustrated or bored. An hour of free running or strenuous playing a day is necessary to satisfy his needs. Obedience work can also be helpful in giving him the mental challenges he enjoys. The curly coat needs brushing and combing two to three times a week, plus scissoring every few months. Like all dogs, he loses his coat periodically; however, the hairs tend to become trapped in the other hairs rather than fall off. If not combed out, they will form mats and cords.
Irish Water Spaniel Dog Health
Major concerns: CHD
Minor concerns: none
Occasionally seen: none
Suggested tests: hip
Life span: 10-12 years
