Spanish Water Dog
🧠 Temperament & character
The Spanish Water Dog is intelligent, eager to work and eager to learn, while loyal and watchful with a pronounced herding heritage. To his family he is very affectionate, towards strangers reserved and attentive, which makes him a good alerter. He needs good socialisation early on and clear, consistent leadership. Properly exercised, he is a sensitive, extremely versatile and cooperative partner.
📜 Origin & history
The Spanish Water Dog has a long history on the Iberian Peninsula, especially in Andalusia, where he served as a versatile farm and shepherd's dog. He herded sheep and goats, helped fishermen in the water and supported hunting - a true all-rounder of the simple rural population. Traditionally his coat, which mats into cords, is completely clipped once a year. As an independent breed he was recognised only in the second half of the 20th century.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The Spanish Water Dog's woolly coat is not brushed but left alone so that the typical cords form; once or twice a year the whole dog is clipped. The ears need regular checking. As an active herding and water dog he has a high need for exercise and occupation and loves versatile tasks such as herding, swimming, retrieving and dog sport. He is very eager to learn, but needs a consistent, sensitive hand.
🩺 Health
The Spanish Water Dog usually reaches an age of around 12 to 14 years and is considered robust overall. Breed-typical conditions can be hip and elbow dysplasia, hereditary eye conditions such as PRA, hypothyroidism and allergies; in some lines neuroaxonal dystrophy occurs, which is avoidable by a genetic test. Responsible breeders examine the joints and eyes and use available genetic tests.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Spanish Water Dog suits active, dog-experienced people and families who can keep an intelligent, sensitive working dog well occupied and offer him clear leadership. His herding instinct and his reserve towards strangers call for good socialisation. Ideal is a home close to nature with plenty of activity; given sufficient exercise, active flat living is also possible. For pure beginners or quiet households he is less suitable.