Spanish Water Dog

Perro de Agua Español, Turk
akc akc
ankc ankc
ckc ckc
fci fci
nzkc nzkc
rkc rkc
ukc ukc
Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Spanish Water Dog is a versatile and intelligent breed from Spain, known for its curly coat and hardworking nature. They are loyal and affectionate with their families but may be reserved with strangers, requiring early socialization and consistent training.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Spain as an all-purpose farm dog
  • Used for herding, guarding, and water work

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female15-18 inches31-40 pounds
Male17-20 inches40-49 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • White
  • Black
  • Brown
  • Beige
  • Parti-color
Type
  • Curly
Length
  • Short and Curly when young, can grow long and corded

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Low
Grooming
  • Low
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Strong and well-proportioned
Skull
  • Flat
Ears
  • Triangular, medium-set, dropping down
Eyes
  • Expressive, set well apart
Nose
  • Pigmented to match coat color
Muzzle
  • Straight
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Short, muscular
Forequarters
  • Strong, well-muscled
Fore Legs
  • Straight and strong
Hindquarters
  • Powerful and well-angulated
Hind Legs
  • Strong and muscular
Feet
  • Oval, tight-toed
Tail
  • Set on at medium height, docked or natural
Gait
  • Agile, balanced

Temperament

  • Intelligent, loyal, and hardworking
  • Can be reserved with strangers

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • High
Good with Children
  • Good, especially when raised together
Good with Dogs
  • Good with proper socialization
Good with Cats
  • Good with proper socialization
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • Moderate
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate

Working Roles

  • Herding
  • Water retrieving
  • Guarding
  • General farm duties

Exercise Needs

  • High

Health

  • Generally healthy
  • Potential for hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy

Additional Notes

  • Requires consistent training and early socialization
  • Coat does not need brushing but requires periodic clipping

References