The Spanish Water Dog is a medium-sized, athletic breed with a distinctive curly coat. Originally there were three different populations classed as the Spanish Water Dog, all similar but different enough to now have their own classification. The modern dog that retained the name, was the type to come from the Andalusian sierras in the south of Spain. They are dual purpose dogs, serving as a water retriever and a sheep herder but their guarding skills are often called for as a watchdog too.
The breed is appreciated for its adaptability, intelligence and unwavering loyalty. Traits that make it an increasingly popular choice among dog enthusiasts worldwide.
The Spanish Waterdog is recognized domestically by the Spanish Kennel Club (Real Sociedad Canina de España). Although it has been around for centuries, this breed has only recently gained broader recognition outside its native Spain. It is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and classified in Group 8 ‘Retrievers – Flushing Dogs‘, Section 3 ‘Water Dogs‘. Mmore recently it has also achieved recognition with many prestigious international clubs such as the Kennel Club (KC) where it is listed in the Gundog Group, and as of 2015, the American Kennel Club (AKC) where it is listed in the Herding Group.
History & Origins Of The Spanish Water Dog
The exact origins of the Spanish Water Dog are somewhat mysterious, but it is believed to descend from ancient water dogs brought to Spain by Turkish traders. Theories suggest that this could have been as early as the 8th Century. Originally there were three different populations of Spanish Waterdog, each developed separately and each with a slightly different coat, phenotype and size. One population has since become recognized as it’s own breed, the Cantabrian Water Dog (as of 2011). The other two, both coming from Andalusia have over time become the one modern breed that we recognize today.
The Spanish Water Dog has a long working history in Spain, traditionally serving as a herding dog and water retriever, a dual role which it still widely performs to this day. It also performs very well in the role of a guard dog and this versatility made it invaluable in rural Spanish communities, where it assisted with herding livestock and retrieving from the water.
Despite having a long history in Spain, the breed remained relatively unknown outside of the country until the late 20th century. They were kept and bred in relative isolation, in rural areas, protecting the purity of the breed. It was in 1970’s that breed enthusiasts started to make a dedicated effort to start an organized breeding programme. They selected dogs to develop the type and by 1980 the Spanish Water Dog Club was established in Spain. This club would promote the breed and work to have it formally recognized. It was eventually accepted and approved by the Spanish Kennel Club in 1985. They were later introduced to the UK in 1992 and later the USA where there are also now dedicated breeding programmes.
Quick Facts About The Spanish Water Dog
- Versatile Worker – The Spanish Water Dog excels in various roles, including herding, water retrieving and search and rescue missions. They can set to work on many different roles, are highly adaptable to different tasks and environments.
- Energetic and Athletic – Known for their high energy levels and athleticism, Spanish Water Dogs are best suited in active households where they receive lots of physical and mental stimulation. They love the water too!
- Loyal and Protective – This breed is deeply loyal to its family and makes an excellent watchdog. Their protective nature is never aggressive, but they are vigilant watchdogs with a loud, alerting bark too.
- Intelligent and Trainable – Spanish Water Dogs are highly intelligent and respond well to training. They excel in lots of different types of training too, including obedience, agility and various canine sports. The breed are typically quick learners.
- Hypoallergenic Coat – With their unique curly, wooly coat, Spanish Water Dogs are considered hypoallergenic, making them a suitable choice for people with allergies.
Characteristics Of The Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog is often compared to breeds like the Portuguese Water Dog and the Poodle due to its curly coat, working role and high intelligence. They are a distinctive breed though. With traits and characteristics that set it apart from these other dogs.
The official name of the breed, as per the FCI standard, is ‘Perro de Agua Español,’ which translates directly into English as the Spanish Water Dog, which you are most likely to hear Internationally. There are a few other names you might hear them go by in their native Spain though, including ‘Perro Turco’ or ‘Perro Turco Luffy’ which is a reference to their origins as a ‘Turks Dog’. You might also hear them called ‘Perro de Lanes’. All of these are names for exactly the same Spanish Water Dog. Despite gaining popularity outside of Spain, particularly after its recognition by the American Kennel Club, the breed remains relatively rare and unique on the global stage.
Spanish Water Dog Puppies
Spanish Water Dog puppies are lively, curious and full of energy, typically born in litters of four to six. As with all newborn pups, it is crucial for them to stay with their mother and littermates for at least eight weeks to develop proper social behaviors. If a pup is taken too early, they can miss out on some really important emotional and social development. Any training without this foundational stage is always more challenging.
Once they are ready for their new homes, socialization and training should begin as soon as possible. Spanish Water Dogs are intelligent and eager to learn but can be independent thinkers. Keeping them engaged and interested is key to successful training, as they can quickly lose focus if bored.
For those considering adding a Spanish Water Dog to their family, the cost can vary significantly. In the United States, prices typically range from $1,500 to $2,500, depending on the breeder, lineage, and demand. These dogs are still relatively rare outside of Spain, which can affect availability and cost.
In Europe, prices generally range from €1,200 to €2,500, where these dogs are also quite uncommon (outside of Spain) and often come with a waiting list. In the UK, prospective owners can expect to pay between £1,000 and £2,500 depending on the pedigree. I’ve seen them listed for as low as £500 by registered breeders, but for as much as £2500 for a pup registered with the Kennel Club.
It is always advisable to seek out reputable breeders who prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs to ensure a healthy and well-adjusted puppy. There is often a waiting list once you have registered your interest with a breeder, as there are not that many pups born every year, less than demand. It really depends where you are. In the UK, numbers are slowly increasing as more and more are registered with the Kennel Club, but demand does still outstrip availability quite often.
Appearance
The Spanish Water Dog is medium-sized with a robust and athletic build. Perfectly suited for its versatile working roles. They have a balanced frame that combines strength and agility. Allowing them to excel in their duel working roles of herding and retrieving.
The head of the Spanish Water Dog is proportionate to its body, with a slightly rounded skull and a pronounced stop. Their muzzle is strong and tapers gently towards the nose, which is typically black or brown, often matching their coat color. The breed’s eyes are well-set and come in shades of hazel or chestnut. Their ears are set at medium height, triangular and hang close to the head, contributing to their keen and attentive appearance. The tail of the Spanish Water Dog can be either naturally bobbed or traditionally docked in some regions. When left undocked it is set low and carried in a slight curve.
Male Spanish Water Dogs generally stand between 17.3 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder, while females range from 16 to 18.1 inches. The FCI also state in the standard that a tolerance of 2cm above of below this is permissible, so long as the dog maintains the same physical balance. Their weight typically varies between 31 to 48 pounds, with males being slightly heavier than females. The breed exhibits minimal sexual dimorphism, meaning there is little difference in appearance between males and females beyond the obvious size difference
Male | Female | |
Height | 44 to 50 cm (17.3 – 20 in) at the withers | 40 to 46 cm (16 – 18.1 in) at the withers |
Weight | 18 – 22 kg (39 – 48 lbs) | 14 – 18 kg (31 – 39lbs) |
Coat
The coat of the Spanish Water Dog is one of its most defining features. It is always curly and woolly, and clipping is acceptable within the standard. Those clipped that develop short curls, can develop longer cords as the coat grows. The coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting but should never be brushed, as this can damage the curls. If clipping, the coat should still remain the same length all over, and never ‘designed’ for aesthetics.
Color
There are 14 different variations of solid and bicolor combinations accepted by the breed standard according to the AKC, across the 4 base colors of brown, beige, white and black. The nose will also either be black or brown and makes up part of the registered color combination. For example, Beige & White with a black nose is one registered color combination.
The FCI have a much simpler description of the standard:
- Solid Color – White, black and chestnut in their different shades.
- Bicolored – White and black or white and brown in their different shades.
- Tricoloured subjects, and black and tan as well as hazelnut and tan dogs are not accepted as standard.
Temperament
Spanish Water Dogs are known for their intelligent, loyal, and energetic nature. They love to be your friend, but with their bountiful energy, they are not a lapdog. They can be wary of strangers and will bark to alert, making them good watchdogs. Not all of them carry the guarding trait interestingly, the strength of this depends on their bloodline. They are a very well balanced dog, hard working and obedient with great learning potential. You would be hard pushed to find a more adaptable and versatile dog, with affection for all the family including young children.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Spanish Water Dog is suggested to be between 12 to 14 years in good health and care.
Known Health Issues
Though generally healthy, Spanish Water Dogs can be affected by several health issues. Some of the most notable are:
Hip Dysplasia – A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit together perfectly, potentially leading to arthritis or lameness.
- Treatment: Management includes weight control, controlled exercise, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Severe cases might require surgery.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – An inherited condition that causes the gradual degeneration of the retina, leading to vision loss and potentially blindness.
- Treatment: There is no cure for PRA, but supportive care, such as providing a stable environment and avoiding rearranging furniture, can help affected dogs adapt to their vision loss.
Hypothyroidism – A disorder where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like weight gain, lethargy and coat changes.
- Treatment: Lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy is necessary, along with regular monitoring of thyroid levels by a veterinarian.
Allergies – Spanish Water Dogs can suffer from skin allergies, often caused by environmental factors, food, or contact with certain substances.
- Treatment: Management includes identifying and avoiding allergens, using hypoallergenic diets, and providing medications such as antihistamines or corticosteroids to relieve symptoms.
Ear Infections – Due to their curly, dense coat and love for water, Spanish Water Dogs are prone to ear infections. Moisture and debris can become trapped in their ears, leading to infections.
- Treatment: Regular ear cleaning and drying, especially after swimming, can help prevent infections. Infected ears should be treated with veterinary-prescribed ear drops or medications.
Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s Disease) – A condition where the adrenal glands do not produce sufficient steroid hormones, leading to symptoms like lethargy, vomiting and weight loss.
- Treatment: Lifelong hormone replacement therapy and regular monitoring by a veterinarian are required to manage this condition.
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) – A condition where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes, leading to malnutrition and poor digestion.
- Treatment: Enzyme replacement therapy with each meal and dietary management are essential to control EPI. Regular veterinary check-ups are important with this condition.
Daily Life
Food and Diet
Spanish Water Dogs are energetic and active, needing about 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dog food daily, split into two meals. A diet rich in protein and healthy fats supports their muscle mass and energy levels, essential for their active lifestyle. Look for good quality dog foods with meat as the first ingredient and minimal fillers to ensure they get the nutrients they need.
Puppies require three to four smaller meals per day to support their rapid growth and high energy levels. As they mature, transition to feeding them twice daily. It’s important to adjust the quantity based on their activity level and metabolism to maintain a healthy weight.
Older dogs may need a senior blend to adjust the nutritional balance for their ageing bodies. These blends often contain fewer calories, more fiber and joint-supporting supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin. It’s important to keep an eye on their weight particularly as they transition into older life. Adjusting their diet accordingly to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate health issues like hip dysplasia.
General Tips:
- Always provide fresh water for your dog.
- Avoid feeding them table scraps or foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, onions, and grapes.
Exercise
Spanish Water Dogs are an energetic and active breed that do best when they have plenty exercise to maintain their health and happiness. Daily walks, playtime in a secure yard and activities like fetch, swimming, or agility training are ideal. These dogs need at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise per day to burn off their high energy levels and keep them physically fit.
Incorporating their natural skills into their exercise routine can be highly beneficial. Spanish Water Dogs do really well at activities that involve herding and water retrieval, reflecting their traditional roles so anything you can incorporate that involves these natural traits will have their full approval. Engaging them in herding trials, dock diving, or even advanced obedience training can provide both physical and mental stimulation. These are a great way to bond with your dog as well as keep them well balanced, preventing any boredom-related behaviors.
When it comes to off-leash activities, Spanish Water Dogs can do well if properly and consistently trained. However, their strong prey drive and natural curiosity mean they should be in a safe, enclosed area or under close supervision. Off leash, they may have a tendency to chase after small, exciting prey and if left unchecked this can become problematic, reducing their responsiveness to recall. An experienced owner will spot the scent tracking behavior early and be able to reign it in. Using long leads in open spaces is perhaps a better way for novice owners to allow them to explore while ensuring their safety.
Family Compatibility
Spanish Water Dogs are highly loyal and many develop a protective, guarding trait too. In either case they can be excellent family companions. They naturally bond closely with their family members and are particularly good with children. Consistent training and socialization is really important though, to ensure their behavior remains well-mannered and adaptable. They do much better in homes where they can receive plenty of attention and structured activities. Otherwise they can become bored and potentially destructive if left alone for long periods.
Routine and structure are key for any home with a Spanish Water Dog. They do best with firm but fair and patient owners who can provide clear boundaries and positive reinforcement. These dogs are not well-suited to apartment living or city environments due to their high energy levels and need for regular, vigorous exercise. Ideally, they will have a home with a secure yard where they can run and play safely.
Spanish Water Dogs should always be supervised around young children or unfamiliar pets they are unfamiliar with due to their herding instincts. Their natural wariness of strangers makes them good watchdogs, but it also means they need careful and ongoing socialization to manage their protective nature effectively.
Training & Socializing
Training should commence early, with a significant focus on socialization with these dogs. They can be a bit wary of strangers and new environments, making early exposure to different people, places and experiences essential for developing well-rounded behavior.
Spanish Water Dogs are highly trainable though, with incredible intelligence and a real eagerness to please. As with many intelligent working breeds though, they can also have an independent streak. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best and you need to keep training sessions interesting. They pick things up very quickly so sessions should be kept varied and engaging to prevent boredom and maintain their interest.
While suitable for most owners, an experienced trainer will be able to get the most out of a Spanish Waterdog. They are so versatile and adaptable that not engaging their talents through training would almost be criminal. Their natural skills in herding and retrieving make them well-suited for agility training, obedience trials and even search and rescue missions. From family companion to working dog and everything in between there is barely a role these dogs couldn’t fulfil.
Grooming
The Spanish Waterdog needs plenty of grooming, but as a rule, their naturally curly coat should never be brushed. It can be quite a difficult coat to manage despite this, depending on how long an owner wishes to keep the coat. A long coat can develop cords but it’s not a straightforward process to do this for a novice. A shorter coat is easier to manage, but should always be kept at a uniform length. It’s best to employ the help of a professional groomer when it comes to clipping these dogs.
Nails should be regularly checked for length and trimmed as and when required. Ears should also be checked regularly for wax and dirt, particularly if the dog is regularly taking a dip in the water.
Breed Traits
Positive Traits | Negative Traits |
Very versatile and adaptable | High exercise needs |
Highly trainable | Can maintain a high prey drive |
Affectionate and good with kids | Needs lots of grooming but no brushing |
Well rounded and even tempered | Not really suited for city life |
Breed FAQs
Are Spanish Water Dogs good for apartment living?
These dogs are bundles of energy from the moment they come into the world. They are traditionally working dogs and need plenty of space and exercise. They are not really suited for apartment life or long periods left on their own.
Do Spanish Water Dogs bark a lot?
They don’t usually bark a lot, but if they are left alone for any length of time they can develop separation anxiety. When this happens they can start to bark a lot more, especially when you are away from the house. They may even bark until your return which could be a bit annoying for your neighbours.
Summary
In my opinion, these are one of the most charming and capable of all the working waterdogs. Versatile and energetic at their very heart, the Spanish Waterdog is also known for its intelligence, loyalty and distinctive curly coat. They do best in active households and really need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. With proper care, training and socialization, they make excellent family pets and working dogs. While they are still quite rare outside of Spain, their popularity is growing and so are their numbers, gradually.