Irish Water Spaniel
Description
The Irish Water Spaniel stands out with its dense, curly liver-colored coat that’s water-resistant and perfect for retrieving in marshes and lakes. This breed dates back to the 1830s in Ireland, blending traits from the now-extinct Southern and Northern Water Spaniels, plus influences from the Poodle and Irish Setter. Their tight ringlets cover the body, while the face and tail show smoother, shorter hair, giving them a distinctive look. They’re affectionate dogs with a strong hunting drive and remarkable swimming skills. Irish Water Spaniels bond deeply with their families and do well with kids, but they need early socialization and consistent training to channel their energy and intelligence positively. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, they can become restless or stubborn.
Grooming
The Irish Water Spaniel’s medium-length curly coat requires regular care to stay healthy and tangle-free. Their coat sheds lightly to moderately, so weekly brushing with a rubber curry or bristle brush is essential to prevent mats and distribute natural oils. Bathing should be done every 4 to 8 weeks; over-bathing can strip the coat’s protective oils, so keep it moderate. Nail trims every 2 to 4 weeks and monthly ear checks help avoid discomfort or infections. Key grooming points: - Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush - Bathe every 4–8 weeks, avoid over-bathing - Trim nails every 2–4 weeks - Clean ears monthly to prevent buildup - Pro tidy trims as needed to maintain shape Liver-colored coats don’t have stain issues common in whites, but regular ear cleaning is crucial since their floppy ears can trap moisture. Pro tip: Use a detangling spray before brushing to ease through stubborn curls without pulling.
Learn the Curly routine:
→ Complete Curly Grooming Guide
Walking
Irish Water Spaniels need about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to keep them balanced and happy. Their natural retrieving instincts mean they enjoy varied routes where they can explore water or wooded areas safely. Walks should include some off-leash time in secure spots to let them swim or chase after toys, which taps into their heritage. Example routine: Morning: 40-minute brisk walk with some fetch by the lake Evening: 60-minute relaxed stroll with scent games and socialization This breed thrives on mental and physical challenges during walks, so mixing in training cues or puzzle toys can keep them engaged and prevent boredom-related behaviors.
Boarding
When boarding an Irish Water Spaniel, a crate size of 42 to 48 inches is ideal to provide enough room for comfort without feeling too large. These dogs are playful and intelligent, so staff should plan two active play sessions daily combined with scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. They enjoy interactive toys and water play if available, reflecting their natural instincts. Staff should note the breed’s moderate barking and ensure early socialization techniques continue during their stay to reduce stress. Regular exercise and mental enrichment help prevent restlessness. Offering a cozy, secure space with familiar bedding can ease transitions and promote relaxation.