Irish Water Spaniel

The big, bold Irish Water Spaniel has an ancient history. Archaeologists have found remains of an Irish Water Spaniel-type dog dating all the way back to the seventh or eighth century.

The tallest of all spaniels, Irish Water Spaniels are alert and curious. They combine great intelligence with a dashing, ready-to-go attitude that speaks of their history as hardworking water dogs.

The Irish Water Spaniel loves people and becomes deeply attached to his family. He is cautious around strangers. Because of his size and devotion to the family, he makes an impressive watchdog.

The Irish Water Spaniel may resemble a Poodle, but his looks are definitely his own. First is the floppy "topknot" of loose curls that crowns his head, and second is his "rat tail," thick at the base with some curl, and then smoothly tapering to a fine point at the end. His liver-colored coat must be cared for on a regular schedule, two to four times a week.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Smart, proud, strong sporting dog; great intelligence combined with rugged endurance and a bold, dashing eagerness in personality.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height--males, 22 to 24 inches at the withers; females, 21 to 23 inches. Weight--males 55 to 65 pounds; females 45 to 58 pounds

Fun Facts

Irish Water Spaniels are used more for retrieving ducks than for chasing out birds, as most spaniels do. That's because Irish Water Spaniels have sharp retrieving skills and love the water. Their tightly curled coats are oily and naturally water-resistant. In AKC hunting tests and field trials, they are considered retrievers.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.