Irish Water Spaniel
- Group 8: Retrievers - Flushing Dogs - Water Dogs
- Section 3 Water Dogs
- With working trial
Ireland
Irish Water Spaniel
Male: 53-59 cm (21-23 inches) Female: 51-56 cm (20-22 inches)
Not specified
The Irish Water Spaniel is a recognized by the FCI Irish dog breed (FCI Group 8, Section 3, Standard No. 124).
Origin and History
Probably this breed dates from the time of the French Revolution and is derived from the Standard Poodle and the Irish Setter. 1834 began his systematic breeding, 1862, he was presented at a dog show in Birmingham and officially recognized by the British Kennel Club.
Description
This up to 59 cm large, stocky dog with curly chestnut- brown fur is well suited for hunting and has a lot of energy. It has dense, tight, curly, but not woolly ringlets. His fur is oily by nature and has a very rich, dark brown-red liver color. The ears are very long, lobed and covered with long, twisted locks of hair. From other water dogs, the fact that he has no beard on his face sets him apart. Another typical feature is the so-called Rat Tail - the rat tail, which still has curly hair at the base, but appears smooth and almost naked at the end.
Use
Irish Water Spaniel is a hunting dog, including for water hunting; also useful as a guard dog. Also as a family dog they are held. The Irish Water Spaniel is required in addition to his daily run also sufficient employment for his mind. He is very eager to learn and capable of learning and how the retriever suitable for retrieving. He has a soft mouth, meaning he retrieves careful and not biting itself. It reacts with strangers usually very cautious. Time and patience are necessary for habituation to small animals.
The necessary hair care for dogs of this breed is in once a week, thoroughly combing and brushing, as well as about every 8-10 weeks scissors.