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Irish Water Spaniel with curly liver-colored coat and rat tail
medium Sporting 5/10 — Moderate Risk

Irish Water Spaniel

Monthly $26–$50
Risk Score 5/10
Size medium
PlayfulHardworkingBraveInquisitive

Irish Water Spaniel at a Glance

Breed Characteristics

Lifespan

12–13 years

Weight

45–68 lbs

Height

21–24 inches

Exercise Needs

high

Grooming Needs

high

Trainability

high

Good with Kids

Yes

Good with Other Dogs

Yes

Apartment Friendly

No

Health Risks & Common Conditions

5 /10
Irish Water Spaniel Health Risk Score

Hip Dysplasia

High

Abnormal hip joint formation leading to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Common in this breed.

Avg. Treatment: $5,500

Hypothyroidism

Moderate

Low thyroid hormone production causing weight gain, lethargy, and coat changes. Managed with daily medication.

Avg. Treatment: $600

Ear Infections

High

Their pendulous, hair-covered ears trap moisture, leading to chronic ear infections requiring regular cleaning.

Avg. Treatment: $400

Drug Sensitivity

Moderate

Some Irish Water Spaniels have adverse reactions to certain medications including sulfonamide antibiotics.

Avg. Treatment: $500

Recommended Genetic Tests

  • Hip Evaluation
  • Ophthalmologist Evaluation
  • Thyroid Evaluation
  • Elbow Evaluation

Insurance Costs for Irish Water Spaniel

Monthly Cost

$26–$50

Avg. Annual Claim

$700

Claim Frequency

average

Suggested Deductible

$500

Coverage Highlights

Hip dysplasia coverage essential Ear infection treatment coverage Thyroid condition management coverage

Insurance Provider Comparison

Compare coverage, costs, and ratings from top pet insurance providers

Best Overall
L

Lemonade

4.5

Monthly Premium

$20 - $80

Deductible $100, $250, $500
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • Fast claims processing via app
  • Customizable coverage plans
  • Affordable base premiums
  • Preventive care add-on available
  • No exam fee coverage on base plan
  • Limited availability in some states
  • Newer company with less track record
Highest Rated
H

Healthy Paws

4.7

Monthly Premium

$25 - $90

Deductible $100, $250, $500, $750
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • Unlimited annual and lifetime benefits
  • No caps on claim payouts
  • Fast claim processing (2-3 days average)
  • Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
  • No routine or preventive care coverage
  • No dental coverage
  • Longer waiting period for accidents than competitors
Best for Comprehensive Coverage
E

Embrace

4.6

Monthly Premium

$25 - $85

Deductible $200, $300, $500, $750, $1000
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • Diminishing deductible (decreases $50/year with no claims)
  • Covers exam fees
  • Dental illness coverage included
  • Wellness Rewards add-on for routine care
  • Annual limits (no unlimited option)
  • Premiums can increase with age
  • Orthopedic conditions have 6-month waiting period
Best for Exotic Pets
N

Nationwide

4.2

Monthly Premium

$30 - $100

Deductible $250, $500, $750
Reimbursement 50%, 70%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • Whole Pet plan covers wellness and illness
  • Only major insurer covering exotic pets
  • Employer-sponsored plans available
  • Long-established company since 1982
  • Higher premiums than competitors
  • Slower claims processing
  • Benefit schedule plans pay less than expected
  • 14-day waiting period for accidents
Best for Large Breeds
T

Trupanion

4.5

Monthly Premium

$30 - $120

Deductible $0, $100, $200, $500, $1000
Reimbursement 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • 90% reimbursement on all plans
  • No payout limits per incident or lifetime
  • Direct vet payment option at many clinics
  • Covers hereditary and congenital conditions from day one
  • Only 90% reimbursement option (no 70% or 80%)
  • No wellness or routine care coverage
  • 30-day waiting period for illnesses
  • Higher premiums overall
Best Value
P

Pets Best

4.4

Monthly Premium

$18 - $75

Deductible $50, $100, $200, $250, $500
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • Very affordable base premiums
  • Low deductible options starting at $50
  • Fast claims processing (5 days average)
  • BestWellness plan for routine care add-on
  • No dental coverage
  • Customer service can be slow
  • Lower annual limits on budget plans
  • Premium increases with age can be significant

Protect Your Irish Water Spaniel Today

With a moderate health risk profile, having the right insurance plan can save you thousands in unexpected vet bills.

Without Insurance

$2,100 /year estimated
  • Full cost of emergencies out of pocket
  • Difficult financial decisions during crises
  • Unpredictable veterinary expenses
Recommended

With Insurance

$600 /year estimated
  • Up to 90% of vet bills covered
  • Peace of mind for emergencies
  • Predictable monthly expenses
Get Your Free Quote

Plans from as low as $26/month

Compare quotes from top providers: Lemonade Healthy Paws Embrace Trupanion Pets Best View All →
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Frequently Asked Questions About Irish Water Spaniel Insurance

Pet insurance for an Irish Water Spaniel typically costs between $26 and $50 per month. Their hip dysplasia risk and chronic ear infection tendency make comprehensive coverage worthwhile.
Irish Water Spaniels are prone to hip dysplasia, chronic ear infections, hypothyroidism, and drug sensitivities. Regular ear cleaning and hip screenings are essential preventive measures.
Yes, Irish Water Spaniels are one of the rarer AKC breeds. Despite their rarity, they are not typically subject to breed restrictions from pet insurance providers.