Irish Water Spaniel
Lively, curly-coated, and full of character, this breed thrives on adventure and affection. Always eager to please, it excels as both a playful companion and skilled retriever.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
53–59 cm (male)
51–56 cm (female)
WEIGHT
25–30 kg (male)
20–26 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–13 years
Irish Water Spaniel: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Irish Water Spaniel isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Irish Water Spaniel's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Irish Water Spaniel is typically alert, inquisitive, and affectionate with family, though it can be reserved around strangers and sometimes independent.
Key Personality Traits
Generally sociable, bonds closely with family members
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, thrives with regular activity
Enjoys games and interactive play sessions
Adjusts well to new routines and environments
Strengths
- Excellent swimmer and water retriever
- Highly intelligent and trainable
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Low-shedding curly coat
- Energetic and playful nature
Challenges
- Needs extensive daily exercise
- Prone to separation anxiety
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Coat requires regular grooming
- May be stubborn during training
Protect your Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Water Spaniel are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and eye issues. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Irish Water Spaniels are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Quick learner
Overall rating
This breed is highly intelligent and quick to learn, often excelling in obedience but may show occasional stubbornness, so consistent, positive training methods are most effective.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–90 minutes daily
recommended per day
Irish Water Spaniels have high energy levels and need plenty of vigorous daily exercise, along with mental stimulation, to remain healthy and well-behaved both indoors and outdoors.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Irish Water Spaniels are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Irish Water Spaniel would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Needs experienced handling and consistent training routines
Apartment Living
Needs space and frequent activity to prevent boredom
Active Lifestyle
Thrives with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities
Kids
Playful and gentle but may be boisterous for toddlers
Multiple Pets
Can live with other pets if socialized early
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone and may develop anxiety or destructive habits
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Irish Water Spaniels compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Irish Water Spaniel
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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