Spanish Water Dog breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About Wire Haired Dachshunds
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the Spanish Water Dog breed
The Spanish Water Dog, or Perro de Agua Español, is a highly versatile and intelligent dog breed with deep roots in Spain. Originally bred as hardworking companions, these dogs excelled in herding livestock and retrieving in challenging terrains, including water. Their natural swimming abilities, enhanced by webbed feet, make them exceptional for water-based tasks and activities.
In this guide, you'll find detailed insights into the Spanish Water Dog's temperament, exercise needs, grooming requirements, training tips, dietary recommendations, and common health issues—everything you need to know about this remarkable breed.
Weight, height & life expectancy
The Spanish Water Dog is a medium-sized breed known for its balanced build and athleticism. On average, males stand between 44-50 cm tall, while females are slightly smaller, measuring 40-46 cm in height.
Their typical weight ranges from 14-20 kg, reflecting their lean and muscular physique.
This breed has a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
What is the temperament of Spanish Water Dogs like?
The Spanish Water Dog is a lively and energetic breed, known for its intelligence and eagerness to please. They are highly trainable and thrive when given tasks or jobs, excelling in activities like obedience, agility, and search and rescue. Loyal and devoted to their families, these dogs can be protective of their loved ones while generally being good with children and other pets if socialized early. Their inquisitive nature and strong work ethic make them ideal companions for active households that can provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
Our Spanish Water Dog Community
"As you can imagine, Monkey LOVES the water. She is super well behaved and has brilliant recall. She is great off the lead (in the park/open space) and really loves going on a walk WITH YOU ie. loves to be near you, play catch, engage with you.
Monkey's owner, Tamsin from Bristol
"Wilson is a calm, loving, placid, well natured dog who is happy sitting cuddling or on a long walk. He doesn't shed hair and is good for those with allergies. He doesn’t drool or smell. He’s good with other dogs and his party trick is howling, which is highly amusing!
Wilson owner, Simon from Reading
How much exercise do Spanish Water Dogs need?
Spanish Water Dogs are a high-energy breed with significant exercise needs to stay healthy, happy, and well-behaved. They require at least 1.5 to 2 hours of daily exercise, which can include brisk walks, jogging, swimming, interactive play, or participation in dog sports like agility or obedience. Their natural intelligence and inquisitive nature mean that mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and task-oriented activities like herding or retrieving are excellent ways to engage their minds and fulfill their working instincts.
For puppies, exercise should be tailored to their age and development to avoid overexertion and potential injuries. Short, gentle play sessions and low-impact activities are best for young Spanish Water Dog puppies. As they grow, gradually increase the intensity and duration of their exercise. Always consult your vet to ensure your puppy’s exercise routine is appropriate for their individual needs.
By meeting their exercise and mental stimulation requirements, you’ll have a happy, well-adjusted Spanish Water Dog who thrives in an active and engaging environment.
Grooming Spanish Water Dogs: Care Tips for Their Unique Coat
Spanish Water Dogs have a dense, curly, or wavy coat that requires regular grooming to stay healthy, mat-free, and visually appealing. Their coat is often considered hypoallergenic and sheds minimally, making them a potential choice for individuals with allergies. However, it’s important to note that no breed is entirely allergy-proof.
To maintain their coat, brushing at least every few days is essential. Some owners opt for a corded coat style, which can enhance their natural look but requires more meticulous grooming. Professional grooming every few months is highly recommended to trim, shape, and maintain their coat’s quality. Regular trimming also helps prevent matting and ensures the dog stays comfortable.
Additionally, dental care is a vital part of grooming. Ideally, brush their teeth twice daily with dog-specific toothpaste, or as often as possible, to promote good oral health.
By keeping up with their grooming needs, Spanish Water Dogs will not only look their best but also stay comfortable and healthy.
Training Spanish Water Dogs: Tips for Success
Spanish Water Dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them a joy to train for experienced and first-time dog owners alike. Their natural willingness to learn enables them to excel in a wide range of training activities, from basic obedience to advanced skills like agility and search and rescue.
To achieve the best results, early socialisation and positive reinforcement training methods are essential. This breed responds exceptionally well to consistency, patience, and positive rewards, such as treats, praise, and playtime. Engaging training sessions that challenge their intelligence and provide mental stimulation are crucial to keeping them motivated and focused.
With the right training approach and a dedicated owner, Spanish Water Dogs can quickly learn and master new commands, making them versatile companions for active families or individuals. Whether teaching basic manners or advanced tricks, their intelligence and eagerness to work will shine through.
What Do Spanish Water Dogs Eat? A Guide to Their Diet
Feeding your Spanish Water Dog a high-quality, nutritionally balanced dog food is essential for their health and well-being. Choose a diet tailored to their age, size, and activity level to meet their unique nutritional needs. Most Spanish Water Dogs thrive on being fed twice daily to maintain consistent energy levels and digestion.
Diet for Puppies:
Puppies require specially formulated puppy food to support their growth and development. Feed them 3-4 times daily until they reach six months old, after which you can reduce feeding to twice a day. At around 12 months, transition them to adult dog food appropriate for medium-sized, active breeds.
Adult Dog Diet:
Adult Spanish Water Dogs benefit from high-quality kibble or wet food that provides a complete balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Always follow portion recommendations based on their weight, activity level, and any guidance from your veterinarian.
General Tips:
Avoid overfeeding or excessive treats, as this breed is prone to weight gain, which can lead to health issues. Consider incorporating healthy treats and occasional dental chews as part of their diet plan. Regular check-ins with your vet will ensure your Spanish Water Dog's dietary needs are being met.
Are Spanish Water Dogs healthy? A Guide to Common Health Concerns
Spanish Water Dogs are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be predisposed to certain health conditions. Being aware of these potential issues can help owners provide better care and seek early intervention when needed.
Common Health Issues in Spanish Water Dogs
Bones and Joints:
- Hip Dysplasia: This condition occurs when the thigh bone and pelvis don’t fit properly at the hip joint, leading to discomfort, mobility issues, and arthritis.
Eyes:
- Cataracts: A common cause of blindness characterized by a clouding of the eye’s lens.
- Distichiasis: A condition where extra hairs grow on the inside of the eyelid, irritating the eye's surface.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A genetic condition that leads to the gradual breakdown of the retina and eventual blindness.
Hormonal Conditions:
- Hypothyroidism: Occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms such as weight gain, lethargy, and coat changes.
Skin Conditions:
- Atopy: An allergic reaction that causes skin irritation, itching, and inflammation due to environmental allergens.
Caring for Your Spanish Water Dog's Health
While Spanish Water Dogs are generally robust, this list is not exhaustive. Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, exercise, and monitoring for early signs of health issues are crucial for maintaining their well-being. If you’re considering this breed or have concerns about your dog’s health, consult your veterinarian for personalised advice.
Vet top tip
Keep your Spanish Water Dog’s coat in optimal condition by scheduling regular shearing at least once a year. Their dense, curly coat can mat easily, which may trap dirt and moisture, leading to skin issues if not properly maintained. Avoid over-brushing or combing, as it can damage their unique coat texture. Instead, focus on trimming and professional grooming to prevent matting and maintain hygiene.
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