Medium breed
Irish Water Spaniel Puppies
Often referred to as the spaniel family clown because of the curly hair that peaks between its eyes, as well as its clownish character, the Irish Water Spaniel is one of the most beautiful dog breeds in the world. Also known as the tallest of the spaniel breeds, very agile, lovely, and extremely smart, they are one of the most sought-after breeds in Ireland and England today. Discover more about our Irish Water Spaniel puppies for sale below!
We do not have Irish Water Spaniel puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well.
- Adult weight 45–65 lbs
- Height 20–24 in
- Lifespan 10–12 years
- Exercise 60 min a day
About the Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a charming and intelligent breed that has long been admired for its unique curly coat and friendly disposition. Originating in Ireland, these dogs were bred to be skilled water retrievers, showcasing their aptitude for both hunting and companionship. Known for their affectionate nature, they thrive in family environments and get along well with young children, making them an excellent fit for families looking to add a loving pet to their household. Their friendly temperament extends to other dogs as well, although their interactions with cats can vary.
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With a moderate energy level, the Irish Water Spaniel enjoys physical activity but is equally content to relax indoors, making them adaptable to various living situations, though they may not be the best choice for apartment life without adequate outdoor access. Regular exercise is essential to maintain their happy demeanor, so daily walks or play sessions work wonders in keeping them healthy and engaged. Grooming is relatively straightforward, requiring monthly attention to keep their coat in top shape, with minimal shedding to ease concerns for allergy sufferers or neat-freaks.
When it comes to training, these dogs shine due to their high intelligence and eagerness to please. They respond well to positive reinforcement and are quick learners, making them suitable for families willing to invest in training. The Irish Water Spaniel’s bark tends to be moderate, meaning they can serve as effective watchdogs without being overly vocal. If you’re searching for a loyal and playful companion with a flair for the adventurous, consider the delightful Irish Water Spaniel, a breed sure to bring joy to any home.
Irish Water Spaniel breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Very affectionate
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Playfulness Very playful
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With strangers Friendly
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Territorial Somewhat
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Prey drive Moderate
Family & other pets
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Young children Good
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Older children Good
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats Needs care
Energy & exercise
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Energy High
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Mental stimulation High
Training
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Trainability Quick to learn
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Intelligence Very bright
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Stubbornness A stubborn streak
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Light
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Drooling Minimal
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Barking Moderate
Home life
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Apartment living Prefers a house
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Time alone A few hours
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Cold weather Comfortable
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Warm weather Average
A good match for
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First-time owners Manageable
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Senior owners Suitable
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Running partner Good
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Hiking Good
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Therapy work Possible
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Guarding Low
Living with a Irish Water Spaniel
Breed History
The origin of the Irish Water Spaniel can best be traced to Ireland in the 1830s. ‘Boatswain’, a dog owned by Justin McCarthy is said to be the first dog of the Irish Water Spaniel breed.
Mr. McCarthy kept the sources of his breeding a secret until he died, so it is not really clear where exactly the breed came from. It is, however, being speculated that it came from the early Poodle or Barbet dog breeds from France.
The Irish Water Spaniel breed was first showcased in 1862, at a show in Birmingham, and it ran in a field trial for the first time in 1899. The breed was introduced to the United States in the 1870s and became popular, although not as popular as it is in its native country, Ireland.
Temperament
Just as it is with most other spaniel breeds, the Irish Water Spaniel has an alert and inquisitive temperament. They may, however, tend to be reserved around strangers, which is unlike many other spaniels.
They have a highly independent mind and would often want to get their way with things whenever they can. But they are nonetheless quite trainable, affectionate, and loyal to their owners.
Factors that often affect their temperament include heredity, socialization, training, etc. It is best advised to expose your Irish Water Spaniels to different people, sounds, sights, and experiences when they are still puppies as this helps them to grow into well-rounded dogs.
Environment
The Irish Water Spaniel is a very verse and energetic breed. For this, they need enough space to run around as they are also very active. The ideal environment for the Irish Water Spaniel would be a yard with a strong, well-built fence, and enough space for activities that will stimulate them both mentally and physically.
The breed is not suited for apartment life as there will not be enough space for it to run around and exercise. This might affect them psychologically and cause them to display irritable characters.
A pool in the yard is also recommended for the Irish Water Spaniels as they love to swim and would not hesitate to jump into the water whenever they get the chance. You, however, will have to watch it carefully for safety and make sure to teach it how to safely get out of the pool.
Exercise
The Irish Water Spaniel will have different exercise needs at different stages of its life. At a young age of about 9 to 16 weeks, you can start their exercises by allowing them a playtime of 20 to 30 minutes in the yard every morning and evening.
At 4 to 6 months, you can start walking them to half miles and back every day, plus obedience classes and playtime in the yard. From 6 months to 1 year, they can start playing fetch for about 40 minutes in the mornings and evenings, plus a daily half-mile walk.
After one year, you can continue to increase their exercise and walk time to 1 hour and more. Make sure the increase in time is gradual with enough rest breaks in-between to allow them to adapt well. This will help to build their developing bones and give them more strength.
Exercise is very important to Irish Water Spaniels, and they need constant mental and physical stimulation for a healthy living. If you do not give them enough activities, they might seek entertainment for themselves by displaying irritable characters and destroying your properties. You should also allow them frequent swimming opportunities.
Grooming
Irish Water Spaniels do not shed a lot of hair. However, they still need to be groomed at least two times every week to keep them clean and to keep their coat from matting and tangling.
Their coat carries oil that can easily attract dirt and debris. Because of this, regular brushing is recommended to help keep their skin healthy. It is also advised to clean their ears every time they go for a swim to help them avoid ear infections.
Our Irish Water Spaniel puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. USDA licensed commercial breeders account for less than 20% of all breeders in the country.
The unregulated breeders who are selling outside of the USDA regulations and without a license are what we consider to be “Puppy Mills.” We are committed to offering Irish Water Spaniel puppies who will grow up to become important members of your family. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell.
Caring for a Irish Water Spaniel
- Grooming
- Monthly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- Average
- Outdoor space
- A yard is recommended
- Allergy friendly
- Often suits allergy sufferers
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Irish Water Spaniels suitable for first-time dog owners?
Irish Water Spaniels are not the most suitable breed for first-time dog owners because of their strong and independent minds.
Do Irish Water Spaniels have allergies?
Yes. They are allergic to sulfa drugs, leptospirosis component, and such other vaccines.
How often do Irish Water Spaniels need exercise?
Because of their very energetic and active nature, Irish Water Spaniels need daily exercise.
How do I handle Irish Water Spaniels socialization?
Exposing them to different people, sights, sounds, activities, etc. at a tender age is a good way to start.
Can Irish Water Spaniels really swim?
Yes. Irish Water Spaniels are natural swimmers
Do Irish Water Spaniels get along well with other pets?
Not all Irish Water Spaniel can be trusted to be cool with other pets, especially smaller pets.
Are Irish Water Spaniels prone to any health conditions?
Generally, Irish Water Spaniels are a healthy breed, but just like other breeds, they can be prone to some health conditions too.
How do I get a healthy Irish Water Spaniel?
It is best advised to get from reliable and reputable dealers who test their dogs to ensure they are totally healthy.
How much do Irish Water Spaniels weigh?
The male Irish Water Spaniel weighs between 55 to 65 pounds, while the female weighs between 45 to 60 pounds.
Do Irish Water Spaniels need grooming?
Yes. Irish Water Spaniels need constant grooming to stay healthy.
If you are looking for an all-round active, intelligent and entertaining dog, the Irish Water Spaniel is just the right option for you.
