A tall, liver-curled water spaniel with a clown's sense of humour
The tallest of the spaniels, the Irish Water Spaniel was bred for retrieving wildfowl from cold water. It is a strong swimmer with a dense curly coat, a playful streak and a reserved side with strangers, and it needs a firm, patient owner.
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This breed needs about 90 minutes of activity a day. Around 5 sitter-led sessions a week keeps that routine going when work or travel gets in the way.
90
Minutes of activity a day
5
Suggested sessions a week
Dog walking
Best-matched service
They shed very little, but the tight curls trap loose hair and need regular brushing and trimming to stay free of mats.
They are playful and can be great with older children, but their boisterous energy means supervision is wise around toddlers.
They are intelligent and eager to work, but can be strong-willed, so patient, consistent and reward-based training works best.
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