Irish Water Spaniel Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Irish Water Spaniel is the tallest of the spaniels, instantly recognized by its tight liver-colored curls, topknot and smooth, whip-like tail. It is a clown with a retriever's heart, equally happy in a lake or in the middle of a family.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in Ireland as a water retriever for fowl and is among the oldest spaniel types. Irish Water Spaniels are tall and strongly built, with a dense, crisp, curly coat in solid liver, a topknot of loose curls, a smooth face and a smooth, tapering tail. The coat provides protection against cold water and brush.

Temperament

They are intelligent, playful and affectionate with family, and can be reserved or aloof with strangers. They are known for a clownish sense of humor. They can be stubborn and sensitive. They are generally good with children, though their exuberance can overwhelm small ones. They bond strongly and do not like isolation.

Exercise

They need an hour or more daily, with walks, swimming and retrieving. They enjoy hiking and field work. Mental challenges are important, too. Secure fencing and supervised play keep them safe.

Training

They are smart but independent, with a mischievous streak. Use positive methods and keep sessions fun. Early socialization helps with reserve. Teach a reliable recall and a retrieve. Avoid harsh methods, since they can sulk.

Coat and grooming

The curly coat needs brushing a few times a week and a trim every six to eight weeks. See curly coat dog grooming guide. Clean and pluck the ears carefully, trim nails and brush teeth. Avoid over-brushing dry curls, which can create frizz.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Epilepsy
• Skin conditions and allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Malignant hyperthermia and drug sensitivities in some lines

Living with an Irish Water Spaniel

They suit active families with space. They need a lot of company. Expect wet paws and mischief.

A typical day

An Irish Water Spaniel wants a morning run or swim, some training and a play session. Afternoons may include grooming or a walk, and evenings are for relaxing near family. They thrive on activity and company.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are rowdy and clownish. Begin socialization, handling and training early. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming, ear care, food and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

The coat copes with cold water, but they need shade and water in heat. They travel well and enjoy lake trips.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, skipping coat care, neglecting socialization and using harsh training.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip and thyroid testing, the parents' temperaments and coat care guidance. The breed is uncommon, so expect a wait.

Is it the right breed for you?

An Irish Water Spaniel suits active, humorous owners who want a tall, curly retriever and will groom regularly. It may not suit a sedentary home or those wanting a very social dog. For a smaller water spaniel, see the American Water Spaniel.

Life with the topknot

Few dogs attract as many curious questions on walks. The topknot, the smooth face and the rat-like tail make the Irish Water Spaniel look like nothing else, and owners should expect conversation. The breed also tends to be a shrewd observer, quietly learning household routines and testing whether rules apply when you are distracted. Calm consistency, plus plenty of play, keeps that intelligence pointed in a useful direction.

The takeaway

Irish Water Spaniels are curly, clownish and loyal, and they need exercise, coat care and company.