Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is the only survivor of the original water spaniels in Ireland. It dates to the early 1800's, with its likely ancestors possibly including the Curly-coated Retriever, Portuguese Water Spaniels, Poodles, and/or the Irish Setter; on the other hand, some historians claim that this dog is one of the progenitors of the Poodle. It was used as a water fowl retriever, and being a tireless and strong swimmer, it couild easily handle the retrieval of large geese from the water. They were first shown in Britain in 1862, and arrived as early as 1888 in Canada.
Height: 21 - 24" (53.3 - 61cm)
Weight: 45 - 65 lbs (20.1 - 29 kg)
Coat Type: The coat is curly with tight ringlets with no woolliness; the coat also is naturally oily and water-repellent which enables this dog to work in the water with greater ease. The coat requires a good deal of grooming to avoid mats, and if left for too long, cords.
Temperament: The fun-loving Irish Water Spaniel is cheerful, obedient and intelligent. It requires a good deal of regular exercise. Early training is a must as this dog will become big very fast and may have a tendency to want its own way. It is a devoted family dog.
Health Problems: It may have coat or skin problems.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 1 - Sporting Dogs
CKC: Group 1 - Sporting Dogs
KC: Sporting - Gundog Group
FCI: Group 8
ANKC: Group 3 - Gundogs
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