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Thursday, October 2, 2025

Is the Spanish Water Dog Right for You?

 

Perro agua

Let Me Tell You About the Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog is a curly-coated, high-energy herding and retrieving breed from Spain, known for its intelligence, loyalty, and hypoallergenic qualities.

Here’s a detailed look at this fascinating breed:

🐕 Breed Overview

  • Origin: Spain

  • Other Names: Perro de Agua Español, Turco Andaluz

  • Group: Herding

  • Size: Medium

    • Height: 15.75–18 inches (females), 17.5–19.75 inches (males)

    • Weight: 31–40 lbs (females), 40–49 lbs (males)

  • Lifespan: 12–14 years

🧬 Coat & Appearance

  • Coat Type: Medium-length, curly, and woolly; often forms cords when grown out

  • Colors: Black, brown, beige, white, or parti-colored combinations

  • Hypoallergenic: Yes — low-shedding and suitable for allergy-sensitive households

🧠 Temperament & Personality

  • Traits: Active, alert, protective, loyal, and affectionate

  • Intelligence: Very high — thrives on mental stimulation and tasks

  • Behavior: Can be quirky, strong-willed, and inventive; often described as “velcro dogs” due to their attachment to owners

  • Socialization: Needs early and consistent exposure to people, pets, and environments to avoid wariness or territorial behavior

🏃‍♂️ Exercise & Training Needs

  • Energy Level: Extremely high — best suited for active owners

  • Activities: Excels in herding, agility, obedience, tracking, water work, and flyball

  • Training: Responds well to positive reinforcement; not ideal for first-time dog owners due to strong instincts and drive

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Compatibility

  • With Children: Good, but may try to herd small children

  • With Other Pets: Generally friendly, but supervision is recommended

  • Best Fit: Active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor adventures and structured routine

🧭 Historical Roles

  • Primary Jobs: Herding livestock and retrieving waterfowl

  • Secondary Uses: Assisting fishermen and occasionally hunting (though not well-documented)

  • Unique Feature: Webbed feet enhance swimming ability

references: www.thesprucepets.com, www.akc.org, www.swdclub.org

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