Mmmm.. what is an IWS? I’m not going to describe the appearance. The standard does that quiet well. More I will try and describe the essence.
You could say their look is what makes them an IWS. It certainly is distinctive. But there are many other brown dogs that look quite similar but are simply not an IWS.
You could say it was their intelligence. But there are dogs smarter though.
Their clownish nature? Again other breeds can claim the same.
The Irish Water Spaniel is a true Irishman. Of course you can that about other Irish breeds. The Irish Wolfhound is the ancient nobility, the Irish Setter the clown and poet, the Irish Terrier the fighter. So what was the IWS? The workingman. Serious get the job done type… as long as it didn’t interfere with getting a pint or sitting down to tell a story or cut a practical joke or two. A memory till the end of time for those who love them… and those who’ve done them wrong.
When you see an IWS you will first be drawn to the dark curly coat, the handsome face, the strong robust body and that silly rat tail. As you get closer you’ll see the intelligence in the eyes, the smile on the lips… or maybe the caution as they reserve judgment till they’ve gotten to know you.
Remember that this is a dog who had a job. Bring home dinner for the family regardless of the conditions. Conditions that included cold and mud and not getting a lot of recognition for the great job you were doing since you were sneaking. This is a job that required determination and strength and an ability to ignore pain and hardship.
And as a true Irishman more emotional than you would expect. Loving and needing love, being there for you when you need… and needing you in return. And la ong memory for those that have hurt them. Whether the hurt is real or perceived.
This is a breed that breaks all the current rules for dogs. Rules that say dogs don’t think, don’t make plans, don’t love, don’t hate, don’t hold grudges, and don’t have a sense of humor.
When I got my first IWS I was told the reasons I’d love the breed would be the reasons I hate it…. And also why I could never not have an IWS to share my life with.