Pets

Temperament

Just as it is with most other spaniel breeds, the Irish Water Spaniel has an alert and inquisitive temperament. They may, however, tend to be reserved around strangers, which is unlike many other spaniels. 

They have a highly independent mind and would often want to get their way with things whenever they can. But they are nonetheless quite trainable, affectionate, and loyal to their owners. 

Factors that often affect their temperament include heredity, socialization, training, etc. It is best advised to expose your Irish Water Spaniels to different people, sounds, sights, and experiences when they are still puppies as this helps them to grow into well-rounded dogs. 

Environment

The Irish Water Spaniel is a very verse and energetic breed. For this, they need enough space to run around as they are also very active. The ideal environment for the Irish Water Spaniel would be a yard with a strong, well-built fence, and enough space for activities that will stimulate them both mentally and physically. 

The breed is not suited for apartment life as there will not be enough space for it to run around and exercise. This might affect them psychologically and cause them to display irritable characters. 

A pool in the yard is also recommended for the Irish Water Spaniels as they love to swim and would not hesitate to jump into the water whenever they get the chance. You, however, will have to watch it carefully for safety and make sure to teach it how to safely get out of the pool. 

Grooming

Irish Water Spaniels do not shed a lot of hair. However, they still need to be groomed at least two times every week to keep them clean and to keep their coat from matting and tangling. 

Their coat carries oil that can easily attract dirt and debris. Because of this, regular brushing is recommended to help keep their skin healthy. It is also advised to clean their ears every time they go for a swim to help them avoid ear infections. 

Exercise

The Irish Water Spaniel will have different exercise needs at different stages of its life. At a young age of about 9 to 16 weeks, you can start their exercises by allowing them a playtime of 20 to 30 minutes in the yard every morning and evening. 

At 4 to 6 months, you can start walking them to half miles and back every day, plus obedience classes and playtime in the yard. From 6 months to 1 year, they can start playing fetch for about 40 minutes in the mornings and evenings, plus a daily half-mile walk. 

After one year, you can continue to increase their exercise and walk time to 1 hour and more. Make sure the increase in time is gradual with enough rest breaks in-between to allow them to adapt well. This will help to build their developing bones and give them more strength. 

Exercise is very important to Irish Water Spaniels, and they need constant mental and physical stimulation for a healthy living. If you do not give them enough activities, they might seek entertainment for themselves by displaying irritable characters and destroying your properties. You should also allow them frequent swimming opportunities. 

Top Ten Frequently Asked Questions about Irish Water Spaniels