INTRODUCTION

Whether splashing after ducks or showing off in the agility ring, canines of the Irish Water Spaniel dog breed do it all with a sense of fun. Created in Ireland as water dogs, they are rare today, but make excellent companions for active and experienced dog owners, especially if they live near a body of water.Although dogs of this breed are highly intelligent and learn easily, they also have a stubborn side that can be problematic for novice dog parents. Make sure you can keep up with firm, consistent training before deciding this is the breed for you.AniMall24 recommends a dog bed to give your medium-sized Irish Water Spaniel a good night’s sleep. You should also pick up a dog toy to help burn off your puppy’s high energy.

HIGHLIGHTS

It can have a potentially fatal reaction to sulphonamides, ivermectin and vaccines, especially the leptospirosis component.This is a breed that is probably not suitable for the first time dog owner because it can be stubborn, and an independent thinker.Irish Water Spaniels have a lot of energy and need daily exercise. Not all Irish Water Spaniels can be trusted to get along with smaller pets.Socialisation – exposure to many different people, places, sights, sounds and experiences – at an early age is necessary.To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill or pet shop. Look for a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs to make sure they have no genetic diseases that can be passed on to the puppies and that they have a healthy temperament.

HISTORY

The exact origin of this breed, like many others, is a matter of debate among fanciers and is shrouded in the mists of Ireland. The Irish Water Spaniel appeared in Ireland in the 1830s, mainly in the kennel of Justin McCarthy. His dog “Boatswain”, whelped in 1834, is considered the father of the modern breed. Mr. McCarthy never revealed the sources of his breeding and took the secret with him when he died. Speculation centres on early Barbet or Poodle type dogs from France, which may have arrived in Ireland, and possibly Portuguese water dogs that arrived on Portuguese fishing boats. There were also two types of water dogs in Ireland at this time, one of which had a curly coat and may have contributed to the make-up of the breed. Four Irish Water Spaniels were entered in the first Westminster Kennel Club show in 1877, and they remain an active and popular working and show dog in their country of origin. The breed came to the United States in the 1870s, but has never enjoyed the popularity it enjoys in Ireland. The Irish Water Spaniel currently ranks 139th out of 155 breeds and varieties registered by the American Kennel Club, a closely guarded secret.