Irish Water Spaniel
Intelligent, Vigorous And Fun-Loving!
Background and Description
The Irish Water Spaniel, is thought to have originated from water dogs that existed in ancient Persia. In fact, Persian
manuscripts from 4000 BC, point to the existence of water spaniels in Ireland around that time period.
With roots this
ancient, the exact lineage of the breed is not clear, but it has been speculated that poodles and various spaniels may have
contributed to its evolution. This seems to be born out by its physical appearance.
His main job, as his name implies, is to
retrieve birds over water, but he also has the ability plus the zeal to retrieve game over land.
The Irish Water Spaniel is the
largest of the water spaniels. He is a very solid-looking, tall dog with long ears, an alert expression and a curly coat
similar to that of a Poodle. His feet are webbed which assists him with swimming.
Appearance:
Height: 21-24 inches Weight: 45-65 pounds
Color variations: Solid liver, with a purplish tint
Coat and Care:
The weather resistant double coat is dense, tight and consists of crisp ringlets over the body, sides, neck and slightly
down the tail. The legs are also covered by a mass of longer curls or waves. The coat has an oily texture and needs to have
significant grooming to prevent matting.
Hair cuts are best left to a professional groomer, though you can learn to do
this yourself, if so inspired, as the IWS is said to be very tolerant of getting his hair done! Shedding is minimal, putting
this dog on the list of those more suitable for owners with allergies.
Personality and Traits:
The Irish Water Spaniel is a cheerful dog - very smart, good-natured, loyal and easy-going. Many owners enjoy being
entertained by his fun-loving and clownish antics. He is not known to be a barker, but has protective instincts around
strangers.
With a high degree of intelligence, the Irish Water Spaniel trains easily and wants to please, though he
can be a bit stubborn. Firm, yet fair leadership is called for with this breed, along with early socialization. Using his
strong retriever instincts in training sessions and to fetch things around the house, will get a good response.
Activity Level:
The Irish Water Spaniel is an exercise machine, with great stamina and needs a lot of physical activity. Since he is a superb swimmers and obviously loves to retrieve, water activities will be eagerly and enthusiastically welcomed as part of his routine.
Vigorous daily walks are expected. Ideal for an active family and if there is a jogger around, he will happily be a running companion.
Space Needs:
The IWS is well suited to rural residences where he can romp and run freely, or suburban homes with an adequate fenced yard.
This not only gives the dog another outlet for his high energy, but also benefits owners to have space available where their
pet can happily wait for his walk.
Children:
The Irish Water Spaniel is a fun companion and has a good reputation with children. However, because of his size and high
energy, we suggest he is better suited to a family with older children.
The usual caution remains that interaction
between dogs and children should always be supervised by an adult.
Elderly:
Although affectionate, protective and loyal, the high necessity for exercise, would most often make the IWS not the best choice for the elderly or sedentary.
Book Recommendations:
A dog as 'highly' active as the Irish Water Spaniel will thrive and be more able to ward off disease with sound nutrition. He will also
thank you for more tasty mealtimes!
Share Your Dog Pictures
A great way to share photos of your Water Spaniel
as well as all your family photos.
Give it a "free" try - you'll be glad you did!
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