Adopt an Irish Water Spaniel

Picture: Kent and Donna Dannen

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

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  Energy

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  Exercise

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  Playfulness

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  Affection

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  Friendliness towards dogs

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  Friendliness towards other pets

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  Friendliness towards strangers

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  Ease of training

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  Watchdog ability

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  Protection ability

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  Grooming

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  Cold tolerance

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  Heat tolerance

Irish Water Spaniel Dogs Available on Petfinder Right Now

See more adoptable Irish Water Spaniel dogs available on Petfinder

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

Dogs Related to the Irish Water Spaniel

American Water Spaniel
Clumber Spaniel
American Cocker Spaniel
English Cocker Spaniel
English Springer Spaniel
Field Spaniel
Sussex Spaniel
Welsh Springer Spaniel

Shelters with Irish Water Spaniel Dogs

Some animal welfare organizations with Irish Water Spaniels ready for adoption:

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