🐾
FurrFind
Breeds›Irish Water Spaniel
🐕

Best Pet Insurance for Irish Water Spaniels

large breed12–13 years lifespan~$1,000/yr vet costs

The Irish Water Spaniel is the largest and one of the oldest of the spaniel breeds, with a distinctive chocolate-brown curly coat (covering the body) and a smooth 'rat tail.' They are enthusiastic, powerful water retrievers with exceptional swimming ability. Irish Water Spaniels are playful, energetic, and clownish — known for their sense of humor — but also highly intelligent and responsive to training. They require significant daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their dense curly coat is low-shedding but requires regular grooming and trimming. The breed's relatively small gene pool makes genetic health testing especially important.

Best Pet Insurance for Irish Water Spaniels (Ranked)

🏆
EmbraceBest match for Irish Water Spaniels
97
/ 100
★★★★★
4.7(18,420 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$80
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more

Score Breakdown

Condition Coverage
40% weight100
Price & Value
25% weight100
No Breed Exclusions
20% weight100
Customer Rating
15% weight80
Overall Score97 / 100
Visit EmbraceFull Review
#2
97
/ 100
★★★★★
4.7(39,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$90
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period15 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit Healthy PawsFull Review
#3
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(22,100 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$10–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit LemonadeFull Review
See All 31 Providers Ranked for Irish Water Spaniels →

Irish Water Spaniel Health Risks & Conditions

Understanding your Irish Water Spaniel's specific health risks helps you choose the right coverage.

Hip Dysplasia

moderate risk

Hip dysplasia is documented in Irish Water Spaniels, with OFA hip evaluation recommended for breeding stock. The condition involves malformation of the hip socket and ball, causing painful arthritis and lameness. Medical management with NSAIDs, physical therapy, and joint supplements costs $400–$1,000/year. Surgical options include FHO ($1,500–$3,000) or total hip replacement ($4,500–$7,000 per hip). Given the breed's active, water-retrieving lifestyle, maintaining good hip health is especially important to quality of life.

Treatment cost:$1,500–$7,000

Hypothyroidism

moderate risk

Hypothyroidism is among the more commonly reported health conditions in Irish Water Spaniels. The thyroid gland becomes underactive, causing weight gain, lethargy, coat changes, and cold intolerance. The breed's distinctive curly coat can mask early coat changes. Diagnosis requires a thyroid panel ($150–$300). Treatment is lifelong levothyroxine ($20–$50/month) with monitoring bloodwork twice yearly ($100–$250/visit). Response to treatment is generally excellent.

Treatment cost:$200–$800

Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis / Haircoat Syndrome (HNPK)

low risk

A hereditary nasal parakeratosis condition has been identified in Irish Water Spaniels. Affected dogs develop dry, crusty nasal hyperkeratosis and coat abnormalities. A DNA test is available to identify carriers and affected dogs. Affected dogs require regular nasal moisturizing and debridement ($100–$300/year for products and vet visits). Secondary skin infections can require antibiotic treatment ($100–$300 per course). While not life-threatening, the condition is lifelong and requires management.

Treatment cost:$200–$1,500

MDR1 (ABCB1) Drug Sensitivity

moderate risk

Irish Water Spaniels have been identified as carrying the MDR1 (ABCB1) mutation that causes sensitivity to certain common medications, including ivermectin (some heartworm preventives), loperamide (Imodium), acepromazine, and several chemotherapy drugs. Affected dogs can experience severe neurological reactions to normal doses of these medications. DNA testing ($70–$150) can identify MDR1 status. The test result should be shared with all veterinarians treating the dog. Accidental exposure requiring emergency treatment can cost $500–$2,000+.

Treatment cost:$100–$2,000

Ear Infections

high risk

Irish Water Spaniels have dense, curly coats and pendulous ears — a combination that creates ideal conditions for ear infections. Their frequent water work further increases moisture in the ear canal. Ear infections occur regularly and require veterinary treatment ($100–$300 per episode). Hair growing inside the ear canal may need periodic plucking. Chronic or recurrent infections may require ear cytology, culture, and systemic antibiotics ($150–$400 per course). Weekly ear cleaning after swimming is essential preventive care.

Treatment cost:$100–$800

What to Look for in Irish Water Spaniel Pet Insurance

Irish Water Spaniels have several breed-specific health concerns that make insurance valuable. MDR1 drug sensitivity is a safety issue that all owners must know about. Hip dysplasia and ear infections are predictable ongoing costs. Key insurance features: (1) Hereditary condition coverage for hip dysplasia and HNPK; (2) Chronic ear infection coverage; (3) Endocrine coverage for hypothyroidism; (4) Emergency coverage for drug reaction incidents. Embrace and Healthy Paws offer strong hereditary condition coverage. Get MDR1 DNA tested immediately after purchase.

Irish Water Spaniel Quick Stats

📅
12–13 years
Life expectancy
💰
$1,000/yr
Avg vet costs
📊
#160
Most popular
⚠️
5
Key health risks

Common Irish Water Spaniel Health Conditions

⚠️ hip dysplasia⚠️ hypothyroidism⚠️ nail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)⚠️ drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)⚠️ ear infections

All Providers Ranked for Irish Water Spaniels

#4
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(31,200 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$17–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit Pets BestFull Review
#5
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(11,300 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$25–$90
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period15 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit FetchFull Review
#6
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(7,400 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$30–$100
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement80%, 90%
Waiting period14 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit PumpkinFull Review
#7
94
/ 100
★★★★★
4.4(9,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$75
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit SpotFull Review
#8
94
/ 100
★★★★★
4.4(14,600 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$30–$120
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement90%
Waiting period5 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit TrupanionFull Review
#9
94
/ 100
★★★★★
4.4(15,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$75
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period0 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit MetLifeFull Review
#10
93
/ 100
★★★★★
4.3(25,600 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit ASPCAFull Review
#11
93
/ 100
★★★★★
4.3(9,600 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$18–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
Waiting period1 day (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit FigoFull Review
#12
93
/ 100
★★★★★
4.3(3,100 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$80
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit AnimaliaFull Review
#13
92
/ 100
★★★★★
4.2(2,400 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$60
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit KanguroFull Review
#14
92
/ 100
★★★★★
4.2(3,600 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit Physicians MutualFull Review
#15
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(12,900 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$25–$100
Annual limitUnlimited (whole pet)
Reimbursement50%, 70%, 90%
Waiting period14 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit NationwideFull Review
#16
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(4,200 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$17–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit OdieFull Review
#17
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(3,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$18–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit Prudent PetFull Review
#18
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(3,200 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$16–$60
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit TotoFull Review
#19
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(8,200 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$75
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit AKCFull Review
#20
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(5,600 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit CarePlusFull Review
#21
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(6,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit PetPartnersFull Review
#22
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(2,900 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$17–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit TrustedPalsFull Review
#23
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(5,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$80
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement100%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit WagmoFull Review
#24
89
/ 100
★★★★★
3.9(1,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$18–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit DoggoFull Review
#25
89
/ 100
★★★★★
3.9(4,500 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit PetPremiumFull Review
#26
88
/ 100
★★★★★
3.8(900 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$55
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit PawdarlingFull Review
#27
87
/ 100
★★★★★
3.7(4,100 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit HartvilleFull Review
#28
87
/ 100
★★★★★
3.7(1,200 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✗Hereditary
✓Cancer
✗Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$10–$45
Annual limit$10,000
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit NibblesFull Review
#29
85
/ 100
★★★★★
3.6(4,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Irish Water Spaniels. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$60
Annual limit$10,000
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiahypothyroidismnail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)drug sensitivity (MDR1/ABCB1)+1 more
Visit 24PetprotectFull Review
#30
48
/ 100
★★★★★
3.8(1,100 reviews)

Consider alternatives with stronger hereditary condition coverage for Irish Water Spaniels.

✗Hereditary
✗Cancer
✗Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$8–$35
Annual limit$5,000
Reimbursement80%, 90%
Waiting period0 days (accident)
Visit SpokkFull Review
#31
44
/ 100
★★★★★
3.8(2,200 reviews)

Consider alternatives with stronger hereditary condition coverage for Irish Water Spaniels.

✗Hereditary
✓Cancer
✗Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✗No Exclusions
Monthly cost$10–$45
Annual limit$7,000
Reimbursement90%
Waiting period0 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypothyroidism
Not covered: hip dysplasiaNot covered: nail-and-haircoat syndrome (HNPK)
Visit Companion ProtectFull Review

Related Breeds

🐕
French Bulldog
🐕
Labrador Retriever
🐕
Golden Retriever
🐕
German Shepherd