Group :Retrievers Section : Water Dogs
The Irish Water Spaniel is the tallest of the spaniels and an incredibly robust, highly intelligent water retriever. Instantly recognizable by their dense, waterproof coat of crisp liver curls and their distinctly smooth "rat tail," they were bred for the most brutal, freezing water retrieves.
The IWS is brilliantly smart, highly playful, and fiercely loyal. They are often described as the clowns of the spaniel family. They are highly eager to please but can be naturally aloof with strangers, making them excellent watchdogs. They absolutely require vigorous daily exercise. Their unique, curly coat is hypoallergenic but requires intense, regular professional grooming.