True to his name, the Irish Water Spaniel loves water and is an excellent swimmer in addition to being a skilled hunter and retriever. A loving and devoted dog, he needs an active family who can provide the daily mental and physical stimulation he needs. He loves romping in a fenced yard and any opportunity for his favorite activity– swimming. Irish Water Spaniels are intelligent, alert and enthusiastic; they are also mischievous and natural clowns. Rowdy and exuberant when they are young, Irish Water Spaniels can become destructive if left alone for too long or do not receive enough exercise. They generally get along well with other pets in the household, although males may show aggression toward other male dogs. With appropriate socialization to control their zeal, Irish Water Spaniels can be live in a household with older children. Often reserved with strangers and never afraid to bark, they make an exceptional watchdog with many having protective instincts. They seem unusually adept at perceiving human moods and emotions. Some lines are timid and nervous.

The largest of the Spaniels, Irish Water Spaniels range in height from 22 to 24 inches and weigh between 55 and 65 pounds. His curly coat is solid brown with a distinctive purple hue. The curly outer “waterproof” coat is lined with a dense undercoat, which helps insulate the dog while he swims. They need to be brushed at least twice a week to avoid mats and with proper attention paid to grooming, they shed little if at all. To avoid infections, dry their ears carefully after swimming. The most distinguishing characteristic of the breed is their long “rat-like” tail, which contrasts with their curly coat. They thrive in temperatures associated with a temperate climate.

To reduce the chance for shyness, early socialization is essential. Exposure to other pets and children is also important, especially if they will be part of the family. Although of average intelligence, Irish Water Spaniels are somewhat of a challenge to train. While reasonably attentive and responsive, they are simultaneously both stubborn and independent. They need leadership and consistency provided by an assertive trainer who establishes himself early on as “alpha”. This training will likely need to be reinforced as the dog matures. Because of this, they are not a good choice for a passive or novice dog owner.