ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
ITALIEN
NÉERLANDAIS
PORTUGAISIrish water spaniel
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog irish water spaniel!
Here, you will find all the useful information about irish water spaniel. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
The Irish Water Spaniel is a very old breed of hunting dog, its origin is rather unclear, but some breed specialists are certain that this type of dog was hunting as early as 1600 in Ireland, where it was created and rigorously selected for its game retrieving abilities. The Irish Water Spaniel is certainly the result of various crosses of Persian dogs, imported into Ireland via Spain.
Mainly used for hunting in water, it is a courageous and reckless dog, good working partner, the first official breed club was founded in 1890, so its popularity exploded in the 1950s. The International Cynological Federation registered it definitively on 28 December 1954, the last update of the official standard in force was published on 13 March 2001.
It is an elegant breed with harmonious lines, composed of a strong and powerful body, a deep and ample chest, all associated with a barrel-shaped trunk supported by thick limbs and a stocky bone structure.
The topline is straight, broad and slightly sloping from withers to croup, the neck and head are well proportioned overall, the muzzle is long and square and the stop is relatively clean, coupled with a well rounded skull. The ears are long, set low on the skull and drooping along the jaws.
The Irish Water Dog's coat is long, curly, silky and particularly thick, similar in appearance to that of the sheep, but in the form of a fringe, always lying flat on the neck and whip. The most common coat colours are brown or dark brown.
The Irish Water Spaniel has a gentle and affectionate character towards his loved ones, he is a remarkable family dog and appreciated by all. Close to his owners, he will never stop trying to please them and will show courage when it comes to protecting them, rather suspicious of strangers, he does not trust easily.
Playful and mischievous, he will love to share good times with all the inhabitants of the house with whom he will get along wonderfully. Particularly lively, he is an efficient hunter who will prove to be a remarkable working dog, rigorous and reliable when it comes to accomplishing his missions.
In conclusion, the Irish Water Dog is a docile and endearing pet that will delight the whole family, young and old alike!
Adult: The Irish Water Dog will weigh approximately 22 to 26 kg (48.5 to 57.5 lbs) for males and 21 to 25 kg (46 to 55 lbs) for females, withers height will be approximately 53 to 59 cm (21" to 23") for males and 51 to 56 cm (20" to 22") for females.
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Origins
The Irish Water Spaniel, also known as the Irish Water Spaniel, is an ancient breed originating from Ireland. Its ancestors date back over a thousand years, where it was used for hunting waterfowl in swamps and rivers. Its ruggedness and ability to swim in cold and challenging waters make it an exceptional hunting dog.
History
The history of the Irish Water Spaniel is marked by its role as a hunting companion. Developed to retrieve game from the water, it is particularly appreciated for its endurance and resilience. The breed was standardized in the 19th century and became popular in England and the United States, where it is still used for hunting and working trials.
Standard
The Irish Water Spaniel is a medium to large-sized dog, measuring between 53 and 61 cm at the withers and weighing between 25 and 30 kg. Its coat is dense, curly, and water-resistant, often dark liver in color. The head is distinctive with a "topknot" of tight curls. The eyes are small and dark, the ears long and covered in curls. The tail is distinctive, thin at the base and free of curly hair.
Physical characteristics
The Irish Water Spaniel is muscular and athletic. It has a well-proportioned silhouette with powerful limbs. Its curly and dense coat is waterproof, ideal for wet conditions. Its long, droopy ears are covered in tight curls, and its tail, called a "rat tail," is smooth and tapered at the end, unique to this breed.
Character
The Irish Water Spaniel is known for its intelligence, liveliness, and cheerful temperament. It is a loyal and affectionate dog, forming strong bonds with its family. It is also brave and determined, making it excellent for hunting. However, it can be independent and requires early socialization and consistent training to channel its energy.
Life expectancy
The Irish Water Spaniel has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. With proper care, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise, it can live a long and healthy life. It is important to monitor its health and regularly consult a veterinarian to detect and treat any medical conditions early.
Exercise and activity needs
The Irish Water Spaniel needs a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy. He loves to swim, run, and play. Daily walks, play sessions, and water activities are essential for him. Without enough activity, he can become bored and destructive. He is an ideal companion for active families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Recommended diet
A high-quality, balanced diet rich in proteins is essential for the Irish Water Spaniel. It is recommended to feed them premium kibble or a veterinarian-supervised homemade diet. Specific needs may vary depending on age, weight, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding treats to prevent obesity.
Training and obedience
The Irish Water Spaniel is intelligent and learns quickly, but can sometimes be stubborn. Consistent and positive training is essential. Use positive reinforcement methods to encourage good behaviors. Early socialization is crucial to prevent shyness or aggression. They excel in canine sports and hunting activities.
Behavior with children
The Irish Water Spaniel is generally good with children, showing patience and gentleness. Its energy and playful character make it an excellent playmate. However, as with all breeds, it is important to monitor interactions and teach children to respect the dog, to ensure a harmonious and safe cohabitation.
Compatibility with Other Animals
With proper socialization, the Irish Water Spaniel can coexist well with other pets. However, their hunting instinct may drive them to chase small animals. A gradual and supervised introduction is recommended. They generally get along well with other dogs, especially if raised together from a young age.
Grooming needs
The dense and curly coat of the Irish Water Spaniel requires regular maintenance. Weekly brushing is recommended to prevent knots and tangles. Occasional baths and regular trims are also needed to maintain the cleanliness and health of its fur. Ears should be checked and cleaned to prevent infections.
Health
The Irish Water Spaniel is generally healthy, but may be prone to certain hereditary conditions such as hip dysplasia, thyroid problems, and ear infections. A good diet, regular exercise, and frequent veterinary check-ups are essential to prevent and detect these problems at an early stage.
Average price
The price of an Irish Water Spaniel puppy ranges from 800 to 1500 euros (900 to 1650 dollars), depending on the breeder's reputation, lineage, and health tests conducted. It is crucial to choose a responsible breeder who adheres to the breed standards and performs genetic disease screening tests to ensure the puppies' health.
Expenses
Annual expenses for an Irish Water Spaniel can range from 1000 to 1500 euros (1100 to 1650 dollars). This includes high-quality food, veterinary care, grooming, accessories, and insurance. Costs may increase if additional veterinary care is needed to treat specific health problems.
Name ideas
For an Irish Water Dog, names like "Finn" evoke Celtic origins, while "Bran" means raven in Irish, reflecting its dark color. "Murphy" is a nod to Ireland, and "Aqua" emphasizes its love for water. "Luna" for a gentle female, "Storm" for an energetic male, "Shadow" for its coat, "Ruby" for a vibrant female, "Hunter" for its hunting skills, and "Buddy" for its loyalty.
Legislation and regulation
The Irish Water Spaniel is not subject to any particular restrictive legislation in most countries. However, it is advisable to check local regulations regarding hunting dogs and specific breeds. Some areas may have particular requirements for the ownership and control of pets.
Official recognition
The Irish Water Spaniel is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in Group 8, Section 3 (water dogs). It is also recognized by various national and international registries. In Ireland, the official breed club is the Irish Water Spaniel Club, dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the breed.
Pedigrees
Pedigrees for the Irish Water Spaniel are available from recognized breed clubs and registered breeders. These genealogical documents allow tracing the dog's ancestors over several generations, ensuring the purity of the lineage. They often include information on health tests and working or beauty titles obtained by the ancestors.
Destination and usage
Traditionally, the Irish Water Spaniel is used for waterfowl hunting thanks to its exceptional swimming and retrieving abilities. Today, in addition to its hunting skills, it is appreciated as a companion dog and actively participates in various canine sports. Its intelligence and energy make it an excellent companion for outdoor activities.
Prohibitions
To date, the Irish Water Spaniel is not prohibited in most countries or regions. However, as with all breeds, it is essential to research local laws regarding hunting dogs or specific breeds, as some jurisdictions may have restrictions or special requirements for the ownership and care of animals.
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