The Spanish water dog is still used as a working dog in a multi-purpose role including the herding of sheep and the expert retrieval of shot game. It is a strong and sometimes dominant dog that is both elegant and fun to be around. Here we look just a little more in depth at this loyal and cheeky breed of dog.
If you are looking for a dog that is not only cuddly and warm of character but also able to withstand long walks and plenty of exercise, look no further than the Spanish water dog.
10 Spanish water dog puppies that will make your heart melt
If already when they are an adult we find them adorable with its curly coat, can you imagine when they are puppies? Through these 10 pictures of Spanish water dog puppies you will discover: how they are around children, the relationship they have with their owner and also what are their skills.
1. They learn everything you teach them
He is very intelligent, with a great character and learns quickly therefore you will have fun teaching him tricks. It is a dog that you will see in agility competitions or also used as a herding dog. In addition to these skills, the Spanish water dog is a great companion. He is devoted to his family, attentive and happy.
2. Attached to its owner but wary of strangers
This breed is very attached to humans he lives with and his owner but he is quite wary of strangers.This is why it is recommended to socialise your Spanish water dog puppy with other people and animals. This will prevent your dog from being an overly protective dog.
3. Spanish water dogs and children?
Spanish water dogs and children can be a good match. Indeed, this dog breed loves to play. However, it is important that children respects the dog's needs. Just like any other dog breeds, the animal must be left alone when he wants to, when he is sleeping or when he is eating. It is important that the dog and the child are under the supervision of an adult.
4. Training a Spanish water dog
It is important that the Spanish water dog learns new things. However, when they are puppies it is when they have to learn the basic rules of obedience : from how to behave at home to socialize with dogs and people.
Positive training is essential for this breed, and training should be done in a fun yet firm way. Negative training that involves punishment will not work with the Spanish water dog (or any dog for that matter), and will only turn the dog down a path of undesirable and antisocial behaviour.
5. Mental stimulation and sports
Spanish water dogs are very active dogs. This, added to their capacity to learn and their intelligence, shows that they need a large dose of daily exercise, as well as great mental stimulation. A good daily walk and playtime sessions together are good options.
6. The Spanish water dog: a born swimmer
Apart from agility competitions, swimming is another sport where the Spanish water dog dominates. If you love sports and nature, you have found your adventurous partner.
7. Their curly hair is hypoallergenic
Another reason for the success of the Spanish water dog is its curly hair. They don't shed, which is perfect for people who suffer from allergies.
8. Did we mention they love swimming?
The Spanish water dog was originally used for fishing. If you are a good swimmer why not try to race your dog?
9. They are just so cute
Did we mention how cute they are? Yes, I think we did, but let's remind you again of how cute they are.
10. And they are fun and loyal
A fine-natured dog, the Spanish water dog fits in best with a loving and active human family. This dog is quick to form an alliance with its pack and does not tend to choose one member of the family as its favourite. It is non-aggressive if treated correctly and can be exceptionally obedient.
How big is a Spanish water dog?
The Spanish water dog is classed as a medium-sized breed. Its naturally curly and corded coat gives us an impression of its being bigger than it is. Beautiful facial fur frames its face and makes it appear square and robust, and although it is a sturdy and rustic dog it is also gentle and diminutive.
Expect the Spanish water dog puppy to grow to about 19 inches, and weigh between 30 and 40 pounds (13-18kgs).
How much do Spanish water dog puppies cost?
In the UK the Spanish water dog is considered a rare breed. So not only must a prospective owner be enrolled to a waiting list, they must also expect to pay in the region of £400 to £600 per puppy. To own a Spanish water dog will also set someone back in respect of insurance: a rare dog such as this should carry a premium of around £30 a month.
What is the difference between a Spanish Water Dog and a Portuguese water dog?
The Spanish water dog and Portuguese water dog have common ancestry. They are of course both fond of water, but the breeding programmes of both vary in subtle ways.
The Spanish water dog has been breed primarily to herd livestock but the Portuguese water dog has been especially bred to work with fishermen and sailors on boats. In this respect the Portuguese water dog has commonness with the Bichon Frise.
The only other difference between these two breeds is their coat (but even then differences are not always apparent). The Portuguese water dog may have a curly (corded) or wavy coat, but the Spanish water dog will always only been seen with a corded coat.
Do Spanish water dogs bark a lot?
Spanish water dogs are not renowned for their barking. One of the many reasons that the breed is popular as a pet is because of its quietness and calmness. Vocalisation may only be heard of dogs that feel threatened.
Do Spanish Water Dogs shed?
Due to its being bred from ancestors common to the Poodle, the Spanish water dog does not shed its fur. Its corded coat may however produce some dander (microscopic flecks of skin and dust).
Are Spanish water dogs easy to train?
That it is intelligent is seen as an advantage by trainers of the Spanish Water dog. The dog has a keen mind and is never happier than when it considers itself to have pleased its owner. Its versatility as a working dog is apparent in its strength, agility and stamina. However, this energy and versatility must be harnessed wisely because an untrained dog will become problematic.
Are Spanish Water Dogs smart?
Yes, the Spanish water dog is smart, but this smartness must be put to good use by the owner. Mentally alert dogs such as this must be constantly trained, and stimulated by exercise and activities.
Some Spanish water dogs are used as rescue dogs and sniffer dogs because of their intelligence and desire to be active.
How long do Spanish water dogs live?
The Spanish water dog is expected to live for between 10 and 14 years.
Is a Spanish water dog hypoallergenic?
The Spanish water dog is considered a hypo-allergenic dog. In other words, its coat does not shed nor does it release sufficient dander to cause most people to suffer an allergic reaction. However, allergens exist in the saliva and fur of every dog, thus care must be taken when first handling the Spanish water dog.
Are Spanish water dogs good pets?
Due to its intelligence and love of family the Spanish water dog makes an excellent pet. It is also known as a well-balanced dog that will tolerate and even form alliances with other dogs. Training is a must to keep such a smart and switched-on dog on the right track. Failure to treat this dog with the respect and care it deserves will cause it to veer towards anti-social behaviour.
Socialisation and training are a must in the early years of the life of a Spanish water dog puppy.
Do Spanish water dogs smell?
Although not a naturally smelly dog, the Spanish water dog loves to find water, and most of the time it will not care whether the water is clean or mucky. Regular and extensive grooming of this breed of dog is essential in order to keep its coat in a tiptop condition.
