Irish Water Spaniel Dog Breed
- Other names:
- Shannon Spaniel
- Rat Tail Spaniel
- Bog Dog
Irish Water Spaniels are a wonderful curly-haired retriever know for their endless energy, family loving attitudes, and of course that gorgeous coat. Because of that coat, the Irish Water Spaniel sometimes gets confused with the Standard Poodle. Though Poodle might be in this breeds linage, breeding records were not kept so the exact make up is unknown. The Irish Water Spaniel is one of the oldest and the largest of the spaniels. Native to Ireland, the roots of this breed date back over 1000 years. The modern breed which we know today was developed during the 1800s for the purpose of retrieving on both land and in the water.
Irish Water Spaniels are highly intelligent, playful dogs. They have a strong desire to please and can be excellent with children and other pets. This breed has high exercise needs and loves to play. Because of that coat, the Irish water Spaniel is high maintenance in the grooming department. Since they are a sporting breed they may retain strong hunting instincts. Generally healthy dogs, the Water Spaniel should live 10-12 years.
