Irish Water Spaniel
The tallest of all spaniels, with a distinctive curly liver coat and a rat-like tail. Irish Water Spaniels are hardworking retrievers with a clownish sense of humor and a natural love of water.
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Quick Stats
Weight
20–30 kg (44–66 lbs)
Height
51–61 cm (20–24 in)
Lifespan
12–13 years
Coat Type
curly
AKC Popularity
#114
Good For
Active Lifestyles, Allergy Sufferers, experienced-owners
Breed Ratings
Personality
Intelligence
5/5
Trainability
4/5
Playfulness
5/5
Energy Level
4/5
Social
Good with Kids
4/5
Good with Dogs
3/5
Good with Strangers
2/5
Lifestyle
Apartment Friendly
2/5
Exercise Needs
4/5
Watchdog Ability
4/5
Barking Level
3/5
Care
Shedding
1/5
Grooming Needs
4/5
Health Robustness
4/5
Cost of Ownership
Purchase Price
$1,200–$2,500
Monthly Food
$55
Annual Vet
$500
Annual Grooming
$250
Est. First Year Total
~$3,260
Est. Annual Total
~$1,410
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Common Health Issues
hip dysplasiahypothyroidismcataractsfollicular dysplasia
Health robustness rating: 4/5. Irish Water Spaniels are generally healthy dogs with fewer breed-specific health concerns than average.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Irish Water Spaniel cost?
A Irish Water Spaniel puppy typically costs $1,200–$2,500. The estimated first-year cost including food, vet visits, and grooming is around $3,260, with ongoing annual costs of approximately $1,410.
How long do Irish Water Spaniels live?
Irish Water Spaniels have an average lifespan of 12 to 13 years. Common health concerns include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, cataracts, follicular dysplasia.
Are Irish Water Spaniels good with kids?
Irish Water Spaniels score 4/5 for being good with children. They are generally excellent family dogs and get along well with children of all ages.
Do Irish Water Spaniels shed a lot?
Irish Water Spaniels have a shedding level of 1/5. They are minimal shedders, making them a good option for people concerned about pet hair.
Are Irish Water Spaniels good for apartments?
Irish Water Spaniels score 2/5 for apartment friendliness. They are better suited to homes with yards and ample space to move around.