Spanish Water Dog

With its curly coat and sturdy build, the Spanish Water Dog is a medium-sized breed that enjoys swimming. This dog is full of energy, smart, and always ready to make its owner happy. They are easy to train and thrive on new challenges. Great for families, they enjoy being close to their humans and are friendly with kids and other pets. While they do bark to warn of anything unusual, they also make good watchdogs.

Quick Info

Size
Medium
Colours
Solid black, white, brown, black and white, or brown and white
Lifespan
10 to 14 years
Height
15 to 20 inches
Type
Herding
Hypoallergenic
yes
Weight
30 to 48 pounds
Family
Water Dog

Personality

The Spanish Water Dog is a cheerful, friendly, and calm breed that is full of energy and intelligence. They are like little bundles of joy, always eager for both mental and physical activities. With the right training and engagement, they can be wonderful companions for families. They form strong connections with their owners, often favoring one or two people in particular. While they can be watchful and may bark at times, it’s just their way of looking out for their loved ones and home.

History

The Spanish Water Dog might have started in places like North Africa, Turkey, Hungary, or Spain. Along the northern coasts, these dogs were known for fetching things from the water. In areas without coastlines, they helped with herding sheep and cattle and were also used for hunting. When Spain went through its Industrial Revolution, many of the tasks these dogs did were replaced by merchants. Nevertheless, the breed saw a comeback in the 1970s and made its way to America around that period.

Ideal Owner

The best owners for a Spanish Water Dog are those who know how to handle energetic and smart dogs. They should enjoy being active and spending time outside. When their requirements are fulfilled, these dogs can be relaxed and well-behaved at home. It’s important for SWD owners to be around frequently, as these dogs prefer not to be left alone for too long. It’s a bonus if owners enjoy swimming with their pets!

Exercise Needs

Adult Spanish Water Dogs require a lot of physical activity, but it's important to be careful with SWD puppies to avoid any injuries. When they reach adulthood, they can enjoy a wide range of activities like running, hiking, swimming, and even snowshoeing. These dogs also need mental challenges, so engaging them with puzzles, games, and training is essential.

Space Requirements

As a SWD owner, you won’t require much indoor space, but you will need room for their dense, curly fur to dry after they swim. Homes in the countryside with ample outdoor areas and opportunities for different activities, particularly those involving water, are perfect for them. Busy city life isn’t suitable for these energetic dogs.

Training

Spanish Water Dogs thrive on training. They are enthusiastic and keen to impress, which makes them versatile and capable of mastering a variety of tasks. Using positive reinforcement and varying training techniques to keep things interesting are essential for their success.

Grooming

Spanish Water Dogs have a curly coat that needs to be trimmed regularly instead of brushed. Keeping the fur short makes grooming easier, but if the coat starts to mat, it's best for owners to seek a professional who knows how to care for this breed. They are known to be hypoallergenic.

Suitability for Family Life

The Spanish Water Dog makes a wonderful and friendly companion for active families, especially those who live near water. These dogs don’t enjoy being left alone for too long, so they are not the best fit for families with hectic lifestyles that can’t meet their needs. They generally get along with kids, but they may have a natural tendency to herd younger ones, which can lead to them nipping at their heels. It’s better for them to be with older kids or in homes without children.

Did You know?

Spanish Water Dogs possess webbed toes, which allows them to swim very well.

Similar Breeds

Portuguese Water Dog

Need to Know

Suitable for experienced owners
Extra training required
Enjoys active walks
Can be left alone occasionally with training
Medium dog
Some drool
Requires frequent grooming
Barks to alert