The Spanish Water Dog is still relatively rare to see in this country. However, more and more people are discovering what a versatile and loyal companion it is. It can be taken on a variety of outings and always delights in being with its owners.
History of the Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog is also known as the Perros de Agua Español and was first mentioned in the year 1110. As the name suggests, it originates from Spain. Its arrival there is not clearly documented. It is often said that it was introduced by Turkish merchants along with Merino sheep. However, other theories suggest North Africa as its true homeland.
Breed Overview
GROUP: Herding
HEIGHT: 15.75 to 18 inches (female), 17.5 to 19.75 inches (male)
WEIGHT: 31 to 40 pounds (female), 40 to 49 pounds (male)
COAT: Medium length, curly, corded
COAT COLOR: Black, black and white, brown, brown and white
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 14 years
TEMPERAMENT: Active, alert, protective
HYPOALLERGENIC: Yes
ORIGIN: Spain
Nature and Character
As the name suggests, the Spanish Water Dog loves swimming. But it also enjoys extensive walks with its owner and regular, varied play sessions to keep it happy and content. However, to ensure this, it should always be adequately challenged. It is a very intelligent creature with a naturally friendly and curious disposition. It is also open to new experiences.
Furthermore, these dogs are very trainable and therefore easy to educate. For this reason, the Spanish Water Dog is also perfect as a member of a family with children. However, it should be noted that these animals have a lot of energy and therefore need to be sufficiently exercised. Nevertheless, if they receive regular exercise and extensive play sessions, they become very comfortable sofa dogs who demand their cuddle time.
Affection Level | High |
Friendliness | Medium |
Kid-Friendly | Medium |
Pet-Friendly | Medium |
Exercise Needs | High |
Playfulness | High |
Energy Level | High |
Trainability | High |
Intelligence | High |
Tendency to Bark | Medium |
Amount of Shedding | Low |
Acquiring a Spanish Water Dog
Before purchasing Spanish Water Dog puppies, all necessary measures should be taken to ensure that they settle into their new home as smoothly as possible. This includes, among other things, obtaining all the essential supplies, such as food and water bowls, toys, a bed, and of course, a leash and food.
What should I consider when buying?
When making a purchase, it is important to note that the little fluffy head will later become a real bundle of energy. Therefore, extensive walks should be planned multiple times a day. It is also very important to have a garden where the Spanish Water Dog puppy can play and romp around.
It loves fetching, agility training, and often enjoys participating in activities like Dog Dancing. It becomes clear, therefore, that these are very active and versatile dogs. Some may even have a certain hunting and herding instinct, although this is usually not very extreme. All of this should be considered before acquiring a Spanish Water Dog.
Development and Training of the Puppy
As mentioned above, the Spanish Water Dog is very curious about new things and also very trainable. Therefore, training is usually very easy and enjoyable. Even beginners get along very well with this breed, and a strong bond quickly forms through shared time. However, as with any other dog, it is important to observe how the animal behaves.
If it exhibits certain peculiarities, such as the herding and hunting instincts described above, attending a dog school is recommended. This makes living together much more pleasant, and you won’t have to worry about your dog running away at every little noise in the woods.
Giving the Spanish Water Dog sufficient attention and always providing appropriate activities results in a loyal companion who loves to be petted and spend time with its family.
How to Care for a Spanish Water Dog?
The Spanish Water Dog is very active and loves to move around. Nevertheless, it should also be mentally challenged regularly. For example, you can play certain games where it has to find specified objects. Since it also enjoys being in the water, this should also be part of the routine. For example, take your four-legged friend to a dog-friendly lake on weekends. Furthermore, it is important to ensure that it always has enough space in its familiar environment. Therefore, you can keep the Spanish Water Dog in almost any house and even in larger apartments.
Spanish Water Dog Directly from Spain:
As mentioned above, however, having a garden is always advantageous. Here, the dog can sniff new smells and enjoy fresh air even in the absence of its owners. Like many other breeds, the most important thing is to interact with your pet and provide it with new stimuli, such as new toys or new games in general. For example, the Spanish Water Dog loves to fetch. There are special frisbees suitable for dogs that provide plenty of fun.
Moreover, you can go jogging or cycling with your Spanish Water Dog. It becomes clear that it can be perfectly integrated into many everyday activities because it is not only fit but also highly intelligent.
Health and Grooming
Although the Spanish Water Dog has a very dense coat, it does not shed, making it perfect for allergy sufferers. Also, avoid combing or brushing your beloved pet. Instead, if the fur gets too long, trim it to the appropriate length with clippers. If you find dirt in your four-legged friend’s fur after a walk or swim, remove it gently with your hands. This way, you won’t damage the hair structure and ensure that the dirt does not remain in the fur.
Since the Spanish Water Dog loves the cool water, it is also possible to bathe him when he gets very dirty. For this, use a special dog shampoo and never use products developed for humans. After bathing, dry your beloved pet with a soft towel and always check the ears and nose for dirt or injuries.
However, in case of an emergency involving a Spanish Water Dog, be sure to consult a veterinarian to have the problems assessed.
Odor of the Spanish Water Dog:
The Spanish Water Dog has a very keen sense of smell and is therefore perfect for various search games. You can hide different objects in your garden or in your house and let your four-legged friend search for them. You will be surprised at how reliably he performs his tasks. Search games are also excellent for tiring out the Spanish Water Dog and mentally and physically challenging him.
Interesting and Informative
The Spanish Water Dog is a loyal companion who immediately takes its humans into its heart. Nevertheless, it should always be sufficiently stimulated and challenged. The character of the Spanish Water Dog can be described as balanced, playful, and affectionate. Therefore, this breed is perfect as a family dog, among other things. If you need more information, you can inquire with other owners online or locally, for example, at animal shelters, and gather Spanish Water Dog experiences from them.
Do you have a Spanish Water Dog or are you planning to get one? Tell me in the comments what makes it so special in your opinion!