Irish Water Spaniel Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is the tallest of the spaniels and one of the most distinctive gundogs, sporting a crisp, liver-colored coat of tight curls, a topknot of longer ringlets, and a smooth 'rat tail.' Bred in Ireland to retrieve waterfowl from cold, rough water, it is a strong swimmer with a nearly waterproof coat and boundless working drive. Intelligent, clownish, and endearingly eager, it bonds closely with its family and often shows a playful sense of humor. Reserved with strangers and highly energetic, it needs vigorous exercise, regular coat care, and engaging, positive training that respects its sensitive, thinking nature.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
0 active listings
No Irish Water Spaniel puppies right now
Check back soon, or browse other available breeds.
Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Excellent, water-loving retriever with a nearly waterproof coat
- Low-shedding curly coat that suits some allergy-sensitive owners
- Intelligent, trainable, and playfully affectionate with family
Things to consider
- Curly coat requires regular brushing and periodic trimming
- High exercise and enrichment needs; bored dogs become mischievous
- Sensitive and reserved with strangers, needing patient socialization
History
The modern Irish Water Spaniel was developed in Ireland in the mid-1800s, largely credited to Justin McCarthy of Dublin, whose dog 'Boatswain' shaped the breed; its exact ancestry is debated. Prized as a rugged waterfowl retriever, it was among the early breeds recognized by the AKC in 1878. It remains an uncommon but capable dual-purpose gundog and companion.
Temperament
Irish Water Spaniels are intelligent, active, and playful, often described as the clowns of the spaniel world, while remaining somewhat reserved with strangers. They are devoted and sensitive, responding poorly to harsh handling. They need ample exercise, mental stimulation, and positive training to stay content.
Questions to ask a Irish Water Spaniel breeder
- Have the parents been screened for hip and elbow dysplasia and eye conditions?
- Are the parents worked in the field, and what is their temperament?
- Has the line shown any drug or vaccine sensitivities?
Health considerations to discuss
Hip dysplasia. Ask for hip evaluation results on both parents.
Hypothyroidism. Occurs in the breed; ask about thyroid testing.
Drug/vaccine sensitivity. Some individuals react to certain medications; use a knowledgeable vet.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · The Kennel Club (UK) — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Irish Water Spaniel litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Irish Water Spaniel puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Irish Water Spaniel listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Irish Water Spaniel breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.