Beyond the Curls: Brains, Beauty and “Dad Jokes” of the Irish Water Spaniel
Host Laura Reeves sits down with lifelong dog handler, breeder, and Westminster Best Junior winner Stacy Duncan to celebrate “Love the Breeds Month” with a captivating look at the rare and remarkable Irish Water Spaniel (IWS). Often described as a curly-haired powerhouse packed with personality, this ancient breed is one of the original eight recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Stacy shares what makes these dogs incredibly unique, from their physical adaptations to their legendary intellect and quirky sense of humor.
Key Takeaways from this Episode:
- A Fearless Heritage Built for Bogs: Originally developed in Ireland to retrieve game from treacherous, shifting peat bogs, the IWS possesses incredible lung capacity and physical resilience. Stacey describes their relentless drive to hunt, detailing how they will fearlessly dive straight through thick blackberry brambles to retrieve a bird.
- The Practical Purpose Behind the Features: The breed’s unique anatomy is entirely functional. Their famous “rat tail” acts as a natural rudder in rough waters. Meanwhile, their tight, curly coat includes a thick ear-to-ear beard to protect their throat and a topknot to shield their eyes from sharp sticks and briars in the field.
- “With Great Intelligence Comes Great Responsibility”: Stacy warns that these dogs are thinkers. They are brilliant enough to learn almost anything. Stacy even highlights an IWS service dog who learned to run a washing machine and insert coins. But if you don’t challenge their minds, they will find creative (and often unauthorized) ways to entertain themselves.
- The Curly Coat Reality Check: Because they have hair rather than fur, they are highly hypoallergenic-ish and do not go through massive seasonal sheds. However, their tight curls will “pelt” if not properly maintained. Stacy advises owners to keep utility coats clipped to about two inches and emphasizes the absolute necessity of combing all the way down to the skin.
- Aloof Judges of Character: While they are incredibly snuggly and devoted to their “inner circle,” the breed standard labels them “aloof with strangers”. Stacy explains that this isn’t shyness or fear, but rather a dignified observation period where the dog is actively judging your character before deciding if you’re worth their time.
Whether you are looking for an elite sporting partner, a versatile obedience competitor, or just a goofy companion who thinks their own “dad jokes” are hilarious, the Irish Water Spaniel is a breed that is impossible to ignore.
