The largest of the spaniels is the Irish Water Spaniel, originally bred for retrieving birds from both land and water. Loyal and possessing a keen sense of humor, the breed has been called “the best kept secret of the dog world.” To start, the IWS is normally quiet around the house and doesn’t bark very often – a trait which separates him from other members of the spaniel family.
The IWS is a great family dog and is exceptional with children. Active and energetic, they prefer to be “in on the action” and enjoy taking part in family activities. The breed actually prefers living in a family situation rather than with only one owner. They can also be somewhat protective of their families (some make great guard dogs) and are not naturally trusting of strangers. When out on a walk, they are often aloof around those they haven’t met. With other dogs and small pets, it is dependent upon the IWS as to whether or not they will get along well.
The breed is considered easy to train, and they learn fairly quickly. Some of them can be stubborn at times and others might “test” their owners, particularly adolescent dogs. Irish Water Spaniels are intelligent dogs and take well to obedience training but they might put their own spin on things… they are well-known for their senses of humor! Although they can be fantastic performers in the obedience ring, individuals who want a dog to be a top competitor in obedience competitions might want to look for a different breed. Handlers must have a certain sense of humor of their own when it comes to competing with this breed!
When it comes to coat care,the IWS requires a medium amount of work. The coat needs to be combed out once a week – taking care to reach the skin – and the dog will need to be scissored every 6 weeks or so. Baths should be given on a regular basis (every 3-4 weeks) but take note… it can be difficult to get water and shampoo all the way through the coat to the skin! These dogs were bred to be water-proof so it will take some work getting them wet! While their curly coat does shed a little, it is not much. Some allergy sufferers have also discovered that they are not allergic to this breed (although it is always recommended that allergy-suffering potential owners test this out before acquiring a puppy).
There does seem to be a difference in temperament between the sexes. Male Irish Water Spaniels adore their owners and seek to always be in the middle of what they are doing – which could be just as obnoxious as it is endearing. Females are more laid-back in temperament although still loving. Those who are looking for a low-key personality would probably be better seeking a female while a male might be just the thing for owners looking for a clown!
As with most other gun dogs, the IWS does need regular exercise. Walks, biking and hiking will do… although swimming is a favorite activity! They do not do well with owners who work all day either, even if the owner comes home and immediately walks the dog. Many will become bored and therefore destructive. They definitely need both the steady companionship as well as regular activity from at-home (or mostly home) families. Houses with yards are much preferred over apartments – these dogs are generally too active for apartment life.
As with all breeds, there are unfortunately a few health problems to look out for. One such issue includes sometimes-fatal reactions to certain drugs and vaccines. Owners must be an advocate for their dog and never allow these meds to enter their dogs’ systems. Other health issues include allergies, chronic ear infections, seizures, and joint problems. On average, however, this breed is fairly hardy – many will hunt in the fields and water all day long if given the chance!
