These are energetic, athletic hunting dogs, so Irish Water Spaniel exercise requirements are fairly extensive. With their history as hunters, IWS dogs need a variety of activities that both condition them physically (walking, jogging, fetch) and stimulate them mentally (games, canine sports). They also make fairly good bicycling companions, and of course they're fantastic swimmers.
The typical adult IWS, depending on its age and overall activity level, will need at least an hour of proper exercise per day--which you can accomplish with a couple of walks, jogs, or bike rides and a good period of play. You can start exercising your IWS puppy when it's three months old by taking it on short (5- to 7-minute) walks, then you can increase the walks' length and frequency as the puppy grows.
A few things to keep in mind when exercising your Irish Water Spaniel: first, puppies younger than nine months old shouldn't participate i activities that include a lot of jumping, running on hard surfaces, or navigating of stairs, as doing so can injure their still-developing joints and bones. And regardless of age, IWS dogs will need to be leashed when in public. Though usually friendly towards unknown people and animals, breed members have high prey drives, and will instinctively chase small critters--birds, squirrels, and cats, among others--unless controlled by a leash. Even when exercising in your own yard, the area will need to be securely fenced to keep the dog from running away. Otherwise, IWS dogs are healthy and hardy, and can exercise in a variety of situations and weather conditions.
Precautions aside, it's important to exercise your IWS every single day. These dogs are enthusiastic and hard-working, and without regular physical activity they'll become frustrated, unhappy, and destructive, and they'll bark incessantly. Consistent exercise will be great for both the dog's and your own peace of mind! Here are some exercise ideas:
- Walking/Jogging/Bicycling: Two 30-minute walks (or 20-minute jogs or bike rides) per day is a good target
- Fetch/Frisbee: IWS dogs will chase a ball, stick, or Frisbee for hours
- Hide-and-Seek: Good indoor, rainy-day activity; give the dog a treat when it finds you
- Swimming: IWS dogs are naturally great in the water; start swimming with the dog when it's still a puppy
- Canine Sports: These dogs can excel in obedience and agility trials, flyball, and other events
- Hiking: Excellent bonding activity; bonus if you can find a remote area where the dog can be off-leash
When indoors, it's a good idea to give your IWS access to one or more balls or chew-toys that will allow the dog to burn excess energy.It's also recommended that you establish a regular exercise schedule for the dog, such as walks, jogs, or bike rides after breakfast and dinner and a play period in the afternoon.
