Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog International Cooperation

The Icelandic Sheepdog Association of America

The Kennel Club (UK)

Svenska Kennelklubben (Swedish Kennel Club)

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The Icelandic Sheepdog is Iceland’s only native spitz‑type herder, medium‑small, sturdy, and agile with a curled tail and thick double coat in varied colors. Cheerful, social, and vocal, it thrives on daily exercise, close family involvement, gentle training, and regular grooming.

## Quick Facts

- Clever, energetic gundog that loves water and retrieves with enthusiasm
- Distinctive curly, liver‑colored coat with a smooth face and long “rat tail”
- Typically very people focused, often forming a deep bond with one main person
- Needs both daily exercise and brain work to stay relaxed indoors
- A rarer breed in many countries, so good breeders and training support are important


## Appearance & Coat

The Irish Water Spaniel is one of those dogs you recognize across a field. Medium to large in size and powerfully built, this is a strong, athletic spaniel designed to work all day in cold water and rough ground. Males are usually around 53 to 59 cm at the shoulder, with females slightly smaller. Weight often falls somewhere in the 20 to 30 kg range, depending on sex and build. They are sturdy and muscular, but should never look heavy or clumsy. A well conditioned dog has a deep chest, good bone, and a slightly square outline that gives quick, agile movement.

The head is quite distinctive. The muzzle is strong and broad without being coarse, and the face itself is smooth and short coated. On top sits a rounded “topknot” of tighter curls, which flows into long, low set ears covered in rich ringlets. Many people say the breed has a wise, slightly mischievous expression that matches their clownish nature.

The coat is one of the most striking features. The body is covered in dense, crisp curls that help keep the dog warm and protected in cold water. The hair on the throat and front of the neck is smoother, and the tail starts thick at the base with curls, then tapers into a smooth, hairless looking “rat tail” that is very typical for the breed. The only accepted color is a rich liver or dark chocolate brown, often with a subtle purplish tone in certain light.

Coat care is practical but does require commitment. The curls are meant to insulate and protect, not form mats. That means:

- Comb or brush through the coat once or twice a week, using a wide comb on the body and a slicker brush with care on tight curls.
- Check behind the ears, under the collar, in the armpits, and around the tail base where tangles form most easily.
- Rinse with fresh water after swimming to remove mud, salt, or chlorine, then let the coat dry naturally whenever possible.

Professional grooming every 6 to 10 weeks is a good idea to keep the outline tidy and the coat manageable. Many working homes choose a practical clip that keeps insulation but shortens feathering around the legs and belly. Regular trimming around the feet and between the pads helps with grip and reduces mud in the house. Nails should be kept short and ears checked often, since those long, curly ears can trap moisture if not dried thoroughly after swimming.

With consistent care, the Irish Water Spaniel’s curls stay beautiful, functional, and surprisingly low shedding, which many owners appreciate in daily life.


## Temperament & Personality

Living with an Irish Water Spaniel is a bit like living with a clever outdoor athlete who also has a strong sense of humor. These dogs are intelligent, sensitive, and observant. They quickly learn household routines and often seem to anticipate what will happen next. Many owners describe them as “thinking dogs” that watch their surroundings and respond more thoughtfully than some other lively gundog breeds.

The breed is generally affectionate with its family and often chooses a favorite person, while still bonding with everyone in the household. Around strangers, some individuals can be reserved at first. They are not typically fearful, but they will often take a moment to assess new people before relaxing. Early, positive socialization makes a big difference in helping a young dog grow into a confident adult.

With children, the Irish Water Spaniel can be a lovely companion as long as both dog and children understand boundaries. They tend to enjoy active, respectful kids who like to play fetch, explore outdoors, or practice tricks. Very young children should always be supervised, because this is a strong, sometimes boisterous dog that can accidentally knock a toddler over when excited.

Around other dogs, social skills vary by line and upbringing. Many are friendly and playful, especially if well socialized during puppyhood. Some, particularly entire males, can be a bit pushy or selective about dog friends. They usually do best with calm, neutral introductions and clear guidance from their owner. With cats and smaller pets, a lot depends on early exposure. Some individuals live peacefully with cats, while others may be tempted to chase.

One thing almost all Irish Water Spaniels share is an active mind. Without enough mental and physical outlets, they can become bored and inventive in ways that owners do not love, such as:

- Chewing household items
- Barking at small sounds
- Digging in the garden
- Inventing “games” such as stealing shoes to gain attention

They respond well to a calm, consistent household routine and clear expectations. Harsh handling or shouting does not suit this breed, and can lead to stress or shutdown. Confident, patient leadership paired with kindness brings out the best in them, turning their lively nature into partnership rather than conflict.


## Training & Exercise

The Irish Water Spaniel is a working gundog at heart, bred to search for and retrieve game from both land and water. This background shows clearly in their training and exercise needs. They are not a couch dog that will be satisfied with a short walk around the block. Daily activity that combines physical exercise with mental challenge is essential.

Most young adults need at least 1.5 to 2 hours of varied activity spread throughout the day. This does not mean constant jogging. Instead, focus on a mix:

- Brisk walks where the dog can move at a natural pace
- Off leash running in safe areas, where local rules allow, to stretch out and sniff
- Water work such as swimming or retrieving from lakes and rivers during the warmer months
- Short training sessions several times a day, often 5 to 10 minutes each

This breed is usually quick to learn, but also strong willed. They do best with positive reinforcement, using food, toys, or access to water as rewards. Training games that tap into their natural talents can be especially effective, for example:

- Retrieving dummies or toys from different directions and distances
- Simple scent work, hiding items in the garden and encouraging them to search
- Obedience sequences that involve sits, downs, recalls, and heelwork between fun retrieves

They have a sense of humor and sometimes like to test where the boundaries are. Consistency is key. If a behavior is not allowed, it should never be rewarded with attention or laughter, even if it looks amusing in the moment. Once an Irish Water Spaniel learns that a particular cheeky action works, it can be hard to remove.

<x-quote text="What surprised me most was how much calmer my Irish Water Spaniel became once we added a fixed routine: morning walk, midday brain games, evening swim or fetch. Without that structure he was restless, with it he is relaxed at home." from="Lina, first-time gundog owner" />

Because they are sensitive, correction should be gentle and clear, rather than harsh. Many individuals will shut down or become confused if they feel unfairly treated. If you notice your dog disengaging during training, shorten the session, make the next task easy, and end on a success.

Organised activities can be an excellent outlet. Irish Water Spaniels often excel in:

- Working trials and gundog training
- Agility, thanks to their athleticism
- Obedience and rally obedience, with their focus and intelligence
- Canicross or hiking, as long as you build fitness gradually

A well exercised and trained Irish Water Spaniel is typically a pleasant indoor companion that will curl up near you after a day of activity. Without that outlet, their natural drive can become frustration, which is when problem behaviors appear.


## Health

Irish Water Spaniels are generally robust, but like all purebred dogs they can be predisposed to certain health issues. Responsible breeders work actively to reduce these risks, so choosing a breeder who prioritizes health testing and transparent communication is important.

Some conditions seen in the breed include:

- Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to pain and arthritis
- Eye conditions such as cataracts or distichiasis in some lines
- Autoimmune disorders in a minority of dogs
- Ear infections, especially in individuals that swim often and have heavy ear feathering
- Skin irritation or hot spots if the coat mats or stays damp close to the skin

Many national breed clubs recommend health screening for breeding dogs, such as:

- Hip scoring through recognized schemes
- Elbow assessments when required
- Eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist on a regular basis
- Sometimes additional tests recommended in specific countries

A typical lifespan ranges from around 10 to 12 years, with some individuals living longer in good health. Long term wellbeing is influenced by several factors that owners can control:

- Keeping the dog at a lean, fit body condition to reduce joint stress
- Providing regular, moderate exercise instead of sudden bursts after long rest
- Feeding a balanced diet suited to age and activity level
- Maintaining good ear care, especially after swimming, by gently drying and checking for redness or odor
- Keeping the coat free of mats so that the skin can breathe

Because this is an active working breed that often swims and runs in all weathers, prompt attention to small injuries is wise. Cuts on the feet, sore pads, or muscle strains should be rested and checked by a vet if they do not improve quickly. Regular checkups, including dental examinations, help detect issues early and keep your dog comfortable.

<x-quote text="Choosing a breeder who shares test results openly and explains what they mean is one of the best ways to support your future dog’s long-term health." from="Get a Pet Editorial" />

Many owners also choose comprehensive [pet insurance](https://getapet.com/en/pet-insurance) to help manage the costs of any unexpected illness or injury over the dog’s lifetime.


## History & Origins

The Irish Water Spaniel has ancient roots in Ireland’s sporting traditions. While the exact path of its development is not perfectly documented, dogs resembling today’s breed were described several centuries ago. They were valued for their ability to retrieve game from icy lakes, rivers, and flooded fields, as well as their skill in dense cover on land.

During the nineteenth century, a breeder in Dublin is often credited with shaping the modern Irish Water Spaniel through careful selection. The result was a dog that combined strength, endurance, and a strong water instinct with a very distinctive look. The tight curls, smooth rat tail, and rich liver color became hallmarks of the breed, along with a reputation for intelligence and independence in the field.

In its homeland and elsewhere in Europe, the Irish Water Spaniel served primarily as a versatile gundog. It could:

- Retrieve shot birds from deep or fast moving water
- Work in marshes and reeds where footing is uncertain
- Search rough pasture and woodland for game
- Return game gently to hand, thanks to a soft mouth

As shooting sports and dog breeding became more formalized, the breed gained recognition in kennel clubs and appeared at dog shows. However, it remained less common than some other gundog breeds, partly because it required dedicated owners who appreciated its strong character and grooming needs.

Today, Irish Water Spaniels are still used as working gundogs in some countries, often by enthusiasts who value traditional skills and versatility. At the same time, more individuals live as active family companions, doing hiking, obedience, agility, or simply joining their owners in outdoor adventures. Their rarity has a positive side: many breeders are passionate preservationists who take care to protect both health and working ability.

For anyone considering the breed, its history explains much about modern behavior. That intense focus, love of water, and need for meaningful work come directly from generations of dogs bred to perform a demanding job in challenging conditions. When those needs are met in a modern context, the Irish Water Spaniel’s heritage shines through as a rewarding partnership between person and dog.


## Living with the Breed

Sharing your life with an Irish Water Spaniel is rewarding, but it is not a casual commitment. These dogs need time, structure, and active involvement from their humans. Before bringing one home, it is worth taking an honest look at your lifestyle.

Time is a key factor. Most owners should plan on:

- At least one longer walk or training session each day, plus two shorter outings
- Several short mental workouts, such as nose work games, obedience practice, or puzzle feeders
- Coat and ear care once or twice a week, plus more drying after swimming days
- Regular grooming appointments if you are not comfortable clipping at home

Financially, costs can be similar to other medium to large active breeds. Annual expenses often include quality food, routine veterinary care and vaccinations, grooming, insurance, and training classes or activities. Unexpected vet costs can arise with any dog, so budgeting for that or having insurance is sensible.

At home, the breed adapts reasonably well to different living spaces as long as exercise needs are met. A house with a fenced garden makes life easier, especially during the teenage months when energy is high. Apartment living is possible for a committed owner who can provide sufficient outdoor activity and mental stimulation every day, regardless of weather.

Essential equipment usually includes:

- A secure, well fitting harness and sturdy lead
- A long line for safe freedom before recall is fully reliable
- A comfortable bed in a quiet corner of the home
- Towels and possibly a drying coat for wet days
- Grooming tools suited to curls, such as a wide tooth comb and slicker brush
- Floating toys and retrieving dummies for water and land games

<x-quote text="We quickly learned that if our Irish Water Spaniel had two good activity sessions and a bit of training, evenings were peaceful. On days we cut corners, he reminded us by pacing and pestering us with toys." from="Oskar, active family dog owner" />

This is not usually the easiest breed for a completely first time dog owner who has little support. However, a motivated beginner who is willing to attend classes, read, and work with experienced trainers can succeed. Using tools like the [Dog Breed Advisor](https://getapet.com/en/dog-breed-advisor) can also help you understand how well this breed matches your daily life.

Living with an Irish Water Spaniel means muddy pawprints, wet dog smell after swimming days, and a fair amount of hair on towels and grooming tools. In return, you get an athletic, intelligent companion that often thrives on shared adventures. For active people and families who enjoy being outdoors in all seasons, and who appreciate a dog with real personality, this breed can be a deeply satisfying choice.

Irish Water Spaniel

Irish Water Spaniel Association (UK)

Dansk Kennel Klub (Denmark)

Irish Water Spaniel Club of Ireland

Medium–large, athletic gundog with a distinctive curly liver coat, smooth face and tapering “rat tail.” Clever, water‑loving retriever that forms close bonds, often to one person. Needs substantial daily exercise, mental work, regular grooming and kind, consistent training.

Icelandic Sheepdog vs Irish Water Spaniel

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