Live Life Team
This dog, native to Western Ireland, is one of the largest and rarest of spaniel breeds. Its origins are uncertain, but various breeds have been put forward as contenders. These include the Poodle, the HYPERLINK “http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barbet_(dog)” o “Barbet (dog)”Barbet and the HYPERLINK “http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portuguese_Water_Dog” o “Portuguese Water Dog”Portuguese Water Dog. However, there is evidence that the Irish Water Spaniel may be older than all of these.
The modern breed was founded in the 19th century by Justin McCarthy. Although the original breeding records were lost, this bloodline set the standard for the breed.
However, the Water Spaniel was a known breed long before this. It was originally used to hunt and retrieve wildfowl in the bogs and marshes of Ireland, giving it the alternative name of “Bog Dog.” A versatile breed, it today has many uses, including agility shows, drug sniffing and cancer detection, as well as a companion dog. It is popular in dog shows where it is entered as a Gun Dog.
The Water Spaniel is very much like a Standard Poodle in appearance, but more powerfully built and with strong, long-reaching limbs. It has a smooth face and slightly webbed feet. A striking characteristic is its rat-like tail, which is at odds with the rest of its appearance.
The coat is dense and curly, with a characteristic topknot. The colour is always liver or brown, with a distinct bluish tinge caused by the waterproofing oils necessary for this breed. It sheds little hair and is a suitable breed for asthmatics.
An intelligent, loyal breed, it makes an unusual companion dog for an active home.
