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Irish Water Spaniel

12–13 year lifespan · medium breed · 45–65 lbs

$46,000 – $62,000

Estimated 12-year lifetime cost of a Irish Water Spaniel in California, excluding insurance

$6,550 First year
$4,200 Each year after
$500 Expected medical

For your breed and state, self-insuring is likely more cost-effective than paying premiums.

How much does a Irish Water Spaniel cost per year?

Annual cost breakdown for a Irish Water Spaniel in California. Ranges reflect typical low-to-high spending.

Food $1,050–$1,400
Routine Vet Care $700–$950
Preventatives $350–$450
Illness & Emergency Reserve $400–$550
Grooming $650–$850
Supplies & Gear $400–$550
$4,200
per year
Food$1,25030%
Routine Vet Care$85020%
Preventatives$40010%
Illness & Emergency Reserve$45011%
Grooming$75018%
Supplies & Gear$50012%

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What health problems do Irish Water Spaniels have?

Breed-specific conditions your Irish Water Spaniel may face, ranked by expected cost impact.

Hip Dysplasia

●●●○ severe Age 2–6
Probability 14%
Treatment range $50–$9,450

Entropion

●●○○ moderate Age 0.5–3
Probability 6%
Treatment range $0–$2,700

Hypothyroidism

●○○○ mild Age 3–8
Probability 10%
Treatment range $0–$200

Idiopathic Epilepsy

●●○○ moderate Age 1–5
Probability 6%
Treatment range $0–$350

Allergies / Atopic Dermatitis

●○○○ mild Age 1–4
Probability 12%
Treatment range $50–$700

Risk tier: low. Total expected medical cost: $500 over the breed's lifetime.

Is pet insurance worth it for a Irish Water Spaniel?

Over your dog's lifetime, you'll pay $6,000 in premiums. Expected uninsured medical costs: $0–$1,500.

Self-insure may be betterPets Best · 12-year projection
Best value

Pets Best

Monthly premium $40/mo
Annual premium $500/yr
Deductible $200
Reimbursement 90%
  • ✓ Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • ✓ Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • ✓ Unlimited annual limit available

Get a quote from Pets Best

Trupanion

Monthly premium $55/mo
Annual premium $650/yr
Deductible $200
Reimbursement 90%
  • ✓ Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • ✓ Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • ✓ Unlimited annual limit available
  • ✓ No orthopedic waiting period

Get a quote from Trupanion

MetLife

Monthly premium $65/mo
Annual premium $800/yr
Deductible $250
Reimbursement 100%
  • ✓ Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • ✓ Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • ✓ Dental illness included
  • ✓ Unlimited annual limit available

Get a quote from MetLife

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a Irish Water Spaniel cost over its lifetime?

A Irish Water Spaniel costs between $46,000 and $62,000 over its 12–13 year lifespan in California. The first year typically costs around $6,550 including supplies, training, and initial vet visits.

What are the most common Irish Water Spaniel health problems?

The most common health issues for Irish Water Spaniels include Hip Dysplasia, Entropion, Hypothyroidism, and Idiopathic Epilepsy. Owners should budget for both preventive care and potential treatment costs.

Is pet insurance worth it for a Irish Water Spaniel?

For your breed and state, self-insuring is likely more cost-effective than paying premiums. The Irish Water Spaniel is a medium breed with moderate health risks. Balanced risk profile. Insurance provides security against expensive breed-specific conditions.

How much does Irish Water Spaniel food cost per month?

Irish Water Spaniel food costs typically range from $49 to $100 per month, with an average of $77. Costs vary based on food quality, brand, and your dog's specific dietary needs.

How much is Irish Water Spaniel pet insurance per month?

Pet insurance for a Irish Water Spaniel costs $31–$69 per month (average $42/mo). Premiums vary by your dog's age, location, chosen deductible, and reimbursement level.

Sources

Figures on this page are modeled estimates calibrated to published benchmarks (accessed 2026-07-21). Breed characteristics follow AKC breed standards. Full formula and inputs: our methodology.