Irish Water Spaniel

        The Irish Water Spaniel is the tallest of the Spaniel breeds. Its coat is like a poodle’s; with crisp ringlets usually colored solid liver. The males should be 22-24 inches tall, and weigh about 55-65 pounds. The females should be 21-23 inches tall, and weigh 45-58 pounds. In the late 1100’s, there were dogs, presumably the Irish Water Spaniel’s ancestors, that were called Shannon Spaniels, Rat-Tail Spaniels, and Whip-Tail Spaniels, to name a few. The Irish Water Spaniel is a dual-purpose hunting dog, qualified with upland game as well as water fowl. Alert and inquisitive, the Irish Water Spaniel is reserved with strangers, but shouldn’t be excessively shy or aggressive.