Irish Water Spaniel

Life Span: 10 to 12 years

Availability: Rare

About Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel, also known at times as the Southern Irish Water Spaniel, the Irish Water Dog, the Bogdog, the Rat-Tail Spaniel, the Shannon Spaniel, McCarthy’s Breed and the Whip-tail Spaniel, is an intelligent breed known for its characteristic topknot and peak of hair between its eyes. It is also known for its unusual tail, which has curly hair the first four inches from the base, while the rest of the tail is nearly hairless. The Irish Water Spaniel was bred as a bird-dog and is the tallest of all spaniels.

The exact origin of this breed as many others is debated among fanciers and shrouded in the mists of Ireland. The Irish Water Spaniel appeared in Ireland in the 1830s, mainly from the kennel of Justin McCarthy. His dog "Boatswain," whelped in 1834, is credited with being the sire of the modern breed.

The first show classes for the breed were at a show in Birmingham in 1862, and in 1899 the first Irish Water Spaniel ran in a field trial. There were four Irish Water Spaniels entered in the first Westminster Kennel Club show in 1877.

The Irish Water Spaniel remains an active, popular working and show dog in his native country. The breed came to the United States in the 1870s but has never had the popularity that he enjoys in Ireland. Today, the Irish Water Spaniel ranks 139th among the 155 breeds and varieties registered by the American Kennel Club, a well-kept secret indeed.

Visits to Groomer- Medium

Drooling-No

Bath-Rare

Tolerance to heat-Basks in it

Tolerance to cold- Loves snow

Exercise Requirement-Lots

Under Coat-Yes

Colour- Deep Reddish Brown

Coat Type- Thick and Curly

Hair Length- Short

Hair Density-Dense

Irish Water Spaniels are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. Not all Irish Water Spaniels will get any or all of these diseases, but it's important to be aware of them if you're considering this breed.

Hip Dysplasia

Cataracts

Follicular Dysplasia

Hypothyroidism

Allergies

Entropion

Paronychia

Distichiasis

Megaesophagus

Epilepsy

Vaccination Sensitivity

Drug Sensitivity

Temperament
Irish water spaniel is a kind of beautiful, structure, strong movement of the dog, very bright, happy, obedient, clever, sensitive and naughty.Combined with endurance and daring character, active, passionate temperament. Water Spaniels are spirited companions and will want to be included in all family activities. This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them.

Training & Intelligence
Water Spaniels are fairly easy to train, but they do have a willful streak which can make them inconsistent students. Positive reinforcement and lots of treats help the process along, as does mixing up training activities. Keeping training sessions light and fun is also helpful, as Water Spaniels will enjoy any activity he thinks is a game. Early and frequent socialization is important to building an even tempered Water Spaniel.

Breeding
Litter Size-1 to 14 puppies (approximately)

Complication in Breeding-No

Procreation
Irish water spaniel are a healthy and sturdy breed . Generally a dog takes around 18 months to reach his or her full height and structure. It is advisable to breed your dogs after at least two years of age. If you are a first timer at breeding then taking a vets help.