Ratings

Breed Introduction

The Irish Water Spaniel is a beautiful, well-structured sporting dog that is very intelligent, combining endurance with a bold character, having an active and enthusiastic temperament. Its unique feature is the long, loose curls on the topknot, while its body is covered with dense, clear liver-colored curls, providing a stark contrast to its smooth face and sleek ‘rat’ tail. It has a happy, obedient, intelligent temperament, is sensitive and playful. It is the stoutest member of the hound family, adept at hunting animals, especially waterfowl.

Originally from Ireland, it dates back to the 19th century. This breed was developed under the guidance of Justin McCarthy, but he kept strict secrecy over its origins, making it challenging to know the exact lineage of the Irish Water Spaniel. Some believe it may be a result of crossbreeding between the Portuguese Water Dog or other long-haired breeds such as the Poodle with native Irish dogs.

In 1864, a painting of a hound named ‘Rick’ caught public attention, and it was believed that the ‘Rick’ in the 1864 painting had the ancient bloodline of the Water Spaniel, a breed that is a famous ancestor of many prominent gundogs and show dogs. This is the ancestor of the Irish Water Spaniel. Due to its excellent swimming abilities and water-repellent coat, it was especially suited for marshy and muddy areas, thus being used for hunting water birds, capturing ducks, swans, and other waterfowl.

In the 21st century, the Irish Water Spaniel is no longer solely used for hunting; due to their intelligent, loyal, easy-to-train, and tame characteristics, people have trained them as comfortable family companion dogs.