Sporting Group
Irish Water Spaniel
Champion Pedigree
Clownish
Water-Loving
Retriever
One of the oldest and tallest spaniel breeds, the Irish Water Spaniel was developed to retrieve waterfowl from cold Irish lakes and rivers. Its dense, curly coat and distinctive "rat tail" set it apart, along with a famously clownish, playful personality.
Lifespan
10–12 years.
Did You Know?
The breed’s smooth, tapering "rat tail," free of long curls, is a distinctive breed-standard feature unlike almost any other spaniel.
Breed Traits
Size
21–24 in. tall, 45–68 lbs.
Energy Level
High — needs substantial daily exercise, especially swimming.
Coat & Grooming
Dense, curly, liver-colored coat; low shedding but requires regular grooming.
Good With Families
Playful and affectionate, generally good with children given its sturdy build.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Whiptail, Bog Dog
Origin
Ireland, one of the oldest spaniel breeds.
Typical Litter Size
6 to 8 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), CKC
Disposition
Clownish, intelligent, and independent-minded; generally reserved with strangers, alert and playful with family.
Coat Colors
Solid liver.
Working Roles
Historically and today, a waterfowl retrieving gun dog.
Health & Wellness
Generally healthy, though hip dysplasia and a couple of eye conditions are worth screening for.
Notable Irish Water Spaniels
Ancient Irish Heritage
One of the oldest documented spaniel breeds, with roots in Ireland dating back centuries.
Registry Champions
A distinctive sporting group presence at conformation shows for its curly coat and rat tail.
Waterfowl Retrieving Heritage
Bred specifically for cold-water retrieving work in Irish lakes and rivers.
Related Reading
Irish Water Spaniel Gifts
Copyright © 2005–2026 Dog Pound. All rights reserved.