Both were distinct types in terms of color and size. The Northern dog has short ears, with little feather on them or on the legs, but with considerable curl in this coat. His color was liver with more or less white markings. The IWS as we know it today, more closely follows the variety found in Southern Ireland.
Great intelligence is combined with rugged and a bold, dashing eagerness of temperament.
Coat Color - solid liver. Personality Very alert and inquisitive, the Irish Water Spaniel is often reserved with strangers. However, aggressive behavior or excessive shyness should be penalized. A stable temperament is essential in a hunting dog. Because of its long tradition of faithful service as a retriever, the IWS comes by its willingness to please instinctively.