Although the Irish Water Spaniel was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1884, breeds resembling the IWS were documented in manuscripts dating back a thousand years ago. Several types of water dogs existed in Ireland at that time; Shannon Spaniels, Rat-Tail Spaniels, Whip-Tails Spaniels are considered by some to be forebears of today’s Irish Water Spaniel.
Prior to the 1850’s two distinct water dogs existed in Ireland, the Northern and Southern Irish Water Dogs. James McCarthy, of Dublin, is credited with refining the breed into the dog we know today. While it is a mystery which breeds he used, the IWS of today more closely resembles the Southern Irish Water Dogs.
This clownish dog approaches all tasks and challenges with enthusiasm, and sometimes creativity. An intelligent dog that is able to think for itself, the Irish Water Spaniel can sometimes be stubborn and requires a patient trainer but generally wishes to please.
Its perseverance, keen nose, excellent vision and protective coat make it a true dual purpose hunting dog. Its willingness to please combined with its loyalty makes the IWS a great family dog.
Grooming
The Irish Water Spaniel is bred to retrieve waterfowl in the harshest conditions and has a double coat featuring a dense, thick undercoat and a longer water resistant outer coat of crisp ringlets. Regular brushing will remove the shed hair and prevent matting. Wetting the dog after a thorough combing will return the coat to its natural curl. Unless you are showing your dog or just want him fresh to snuggle with, he will not need much bathing if he swims regularly.
Keeping the ears clean and dry is important because the long ears impede airflow and the resulting moist, dark ear is the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to flourish.
Of course if you are showing your dog you will want to do more intense grooming. There is an informative article on the Irish Water Spaniel Club of America website that details grooming from puppyhood through adult.
Activities
The Irish Water Spaniel is an active dog and requires daily exercise in the form of a long walk, jog or run. Because the IWS is an excellent swimmer, allowing the dog to swim in a safe area whenever possible will make for a happy dog. Frequent retrieving games are also a good way to burn off extra energy while stimulating natural inclinations.
Irish Water Spaniels do well in many activities including agility, obedience, field trials and, of course, all types of hunting. An active Irish Water Spaniel is a happy one and they enjoy having a job to perform.
Health
Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) and Elbow Dysplasia are both common in Irish Water Spaniels.
It is recommended that you ensure that the parents of the Irish Water Spaniel puppy, or any puppy, you are considering have Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) certificates.
This breed is known to have adverse reactions to Ivermectin (a commonly prescribed heartworm medication) and Sulfa Drugs (used to treat bacterial infections).
Allergies, hypothyroidism and seizures are less common health issues affecting the Irish Water Spaniel. The Irish Water Spaniel Club of America website contains up to date information on this breed.
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