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Irish Water Spaniel

Sporting Group 🐕‍🦺

The tallest of the AKC spaniels, featuring a distinctive coat of liver-colored curls and a whip-like rat tail. They are clownish, intelligent water retrievers that require consistent mental stimulation.

Size
Large
45-68 lbs
Lifespan
12-13 yrs
Exercise
High
Grooming
High
Insurance Priority
🟡 Moderate
Temperament
PlayfulHardworkingBraveInquisitive

Common Health Issues

Understanding breed-specific health risks helps you catch problems early and choose the right preventive care.

⚕️ Hip Dysplasia
⚕️ Hypothyroidism
⚕️ Ear Infections
⚕️ Drug Sensitivity

Diet & Nutrition

Needs high-quality protein to support an active lifestyle and curly, water-resistant coat.

Find the Best Food for Your Irish Water Spaniel

Fresh, human-grade dog food is formulated specifically for your dog's breed, age, and activity level — delivering the exact nutrition they need.

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🛡️ Protect Your Irish Water Spaniel with Pet Insurance

Irish Water Spaniels have a moderate insurance priority. Even healthy breeds benefit from coverage for unexpected emergencies and age-related conditions. Compare plans that cover breed-specific hereditary conditions.

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Irish Water Spaniel Questions

Do Irish Water Spaniels need pet insurance?
While Irish Water Spaniels are generally a healthy breed with a moderate insurance priority, unexpected emergencies can still occur. Even healthy breeds benefit from accident-and-illness coverage, especially in their senior years when conditions like Hip Dysplasia may develop.
What's the best food for a Irish Water Spaniel?
Needs high-quality protein to support an active lifestyle and curly, water-resistant coat. Fresh, human-grade dog food delivery services are an excellent option — they formulate meals based on your dog's breed, age, weight, and activity level. See our fresh dog food comparison →
How much exercise does a Irish Water Spaniel need?
Irish Water Spaniels have high exercise requirements. This breed thrives with 60+ minutes of daily physical and mental stimulation. Without adequate exercise, they may develop destructive behaviors.
What health problems are Irish Water Spaniels prone to?
The most common health concerns for Irish Water Spaniels include Hip Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, Ear Infections. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate screening tests, and maintaining a healthy weight are the best preventive measures. Responsible breeders will test for breed-specific genetic conditions.
How long do Irish Water Spaniels live?
The typical lifespan for a Irish Water Spaniel is 12-13 years. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, preventive veterinary care, and a loving home environment can help your Irish Water Spaniel live a long, healthy life.

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