Sporting
Irish Water Spaniel
A Irish Water Spaniel needs about 14,000 steps a day. A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.
- Energy Level
- Very High
- Weight
- 25–32 kg
- Height Range
- 53–61 cm
- Life Span
- 10–12 years
Daily goal, in context
Dog steps are shorter than yours — 14,000 steps for this breed is about 70 minutes of walking a day, split over 3 outings. Your own dog's goal is personalised.
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Exercise by Age
Puppy (under 1 year)
5 min per month of age, twice a day
Limit exercise to 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily. Avoid high-impact activities to protect growing joints.
Adult (1-10 years)
14,000 steps
Full daily goal applies. Mix walks with play, training and mental stimulation.
Senior (10+ years)
9,800–11,200 steps
Reduce intensity by 20-30%. Shorter, more frequent walks. Watch for signs of fatigue or joint stiffness.
Exercise Needs
A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.
About the Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a large breed of retrieving dog from Ireland. These dogs are large in size, with a long and wavy coat of fur. They have a lively and energetic demeanor, making them excellent working dogs. They are highly trainable and intelligent, with an instinct to retrieve game. They are loyal and devoted to their family, with an independent nature that makes them well suited for retrieving and guard work.
Facts about the Irish Water Spaniel
Exercise
Sporting breeds need 60–90 min of vigorous activity daily. A long walk plus fetch satisfies both mind and body.
AKC
Behavior
Bred to work alongside humans — positive reinforcement training clicks far better than corrections.
VCA
Health
Many sporting breeds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia — ask your vet about screening after age 2.
AKC
Training
Most retrievers have a natural love of water — a lake or pond walk adds stimulation no park can match.
The Kennel Club UK
Did You Know
Many sporting breeds have partially-webbed feet — an evolutionary trait for water retrieval.
AKC
Frequently asked questions
- How much exercise does a Irish Water Spaniel need?
- A Irish Water Spaniel needs about 14,000 steps a day. A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.
- How big does a Irish Water Spaniel get?
- Adult Irish Water Spaniels typically weigh 25–32 kg and stand 53–61 cm at the shoulder.
- How long do Irish Water Spaniels live?
- A Irish Water Spaniel usually lives 10–12 years.
Calculate your Irish Water Spaniel's exact daily goal
Pawmi uses peer-reviewed breed science to create a personalized plan based on your dog's breed, age, weight and health conditions.
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