Spanish Water Dog

also known as Perro De Agua Español, SWD

Pros Summary


The Spanish Water Dog is a medium-sized, herding dog breed that originated in Spain. They were originally bred to herd sheep and cattle, and also as hunting dogs for small game. The breed's name "Spanish Water Dog" comes from its origins in Spain and its ability to work in water. The breed was first recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1985. It is also recognized by other kennel clubs and organizations such as the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)

Breed Information


Type

Is Spanish Water Dog a purebred?

Purebred

Purpose

What were Spanish Water Dogs originally used for?

Herding

Lifespan

How Long Do Spanish Water Dogs Live? What is average life expectancy for a Spanish Water Dog? How long can Spanish Water Dogs live?

10-14 years

The average Spanish Water Dog lifespan is somewhere between 10-14 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Spanish Water Dog Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Spanish Water Dog?

What is the average height of a Spanish Water Dog? How big is a Purebred Spanish Water Dog height? Spanish Water Dog dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 17-20 inches (43.2 - 50.8 cm) 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) 11.0 inches (27.9 cm) 11.0 inches (27.9 cm)
Female 15-18 inches (38.1 - 45.7 cm) 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) 11.0 inches (27.9 cm) 11.0 inches (27.9 cm)
What is the average weight of a Spanish Water Dog? How much should Spanish Water Dogs weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 41-49 pounds (19 - 22 kg) 13.0 pounds (6 kg) 17.5 pounds (8 kg) 17.5 pounds (8 kg)
Female 31-40 pounds (14 - 18 kg) 13.0 pounds (6 kg) 17.5 pounds (8 kg) 17.5 pounds (8 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Spanish Water Dogs get fat easily?

The Spanish Water Dog is a breed that has an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are Spanish Water Dogs Hypoallergenic?

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Spanish Water Dogs are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What is a Spanish Water Dog personality? What are Spanish Water Dog dogs best known for?

Affectionate
Diligent
Trainable
Athletic
Loyal

Shedding Level

Are Spanish Water Dogs heavy shedders? How Much Does a Spanish Water Dog Shed?

Spanish Water Dog will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Spanish Water Dog dog?

Spanish Water Dogs are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed, and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, the Spanish Water Dog is going to make sure everyone knows about it.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Spanish Water Dogs come from?

Spain

Ancestry

What are Spanish Water Dogs descended from?

Ancient European Water Dog

Breed recognition

What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the Spanish Water Dog breed?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
National Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Spanish Water Dogs first bred? How old is the Spanish Water Dog breed?

10th Century

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Spanish Water Dog?

Herding (AKC:2015)
Gun Dog (UKC)

Spanish Water Dog Appearance


Litter Size

How many puppies can a Spanish Water Dog have in a litter? How many puppies can a Spanish Water Dog have in her first litter?

10-14 puppies per pregnancy

A Spanish Water Dog can have a litter of 10-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

The adaptability of Spanish Water Dog dogs is a well-known trait, they are known for being able to adjust well to different living environments and lifestyle changes.

Spanish Water Dog Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Spanish Water Dogs have a lot of health problems?

The Spanish Water Dog is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Spanish Water Dog?

Hip Dysplasia
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Spanish Water Dogs?

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hypothyroidism
Addison's Disease

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Spanish Water Dog breed?

Hip And Eyes
Blood Test
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Spanish Water Dog Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Spanish Water Dogs have a lot of energy?

Spanish Water Dogs are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, this breed may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

Do Spanish Water Dogs need socialization? How social are Spanish Water Dogs?

Spanish Water Dog have above average social needs compared to other breeds.They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Spanish Water Dogs get?

The Spanish Water Dog dog needs significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are also well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Spanish Water Dog have? Do Spanish Water Dogs sleep a lot?

Spanish Water Dogs dogs are tend to sleep less than other breeds, but they still require adequate sleep to maintain good health.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Spanish Water Dog drool a lot?

The Spanish Water Dog is a dog that is known for its low drooling tendency. If you dislike drool marks on your clothing, the Spanish Water Dog could be a suitable choice for you.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Spanish Water Dogs tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Do Spanish Water Dogs exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

These dogs are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.

Mouthiness

Are Spanish Water Dogs mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Spanish Water Dog running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Spanish Water Dog dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do Spanish Water Dogs enjoy doing? How do I keep my Spanish Water Dog busy?

Long walks, Play

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Spanish Water Dog?

The Spanish Water Dog is a breed of dog that is known for its low grooming needs.

Costs


Spanish Water Dog Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Spanish Water Dog?

The Spanish Water Dog have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Spanish Water Dogs lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Spanish Water Dog dog?

This dog breed is particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. It can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, and unfamiliar people or animals. This dog is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Are Spanish Water Dog dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Spanish Water Dog do well in apartments? Are Spanish Water Dogs good indoor dogs?

It's not recommended to keep the Spanish Water Dog in an apartment, but this breed make good apartment dogs as long as they get to spend a good amount of time outside of the apartment. Spanish Water Dogs living in apartments will need plenty of physical exercise and stimulation throughout the day to remain happy and well-behaved.

Child Friendly

Are Spanish Water Dogs good with kids? Are Spanish Water Dogs good around children?

Spanish Water Dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs. If you have children, you might want to reconsider adopting another dog as a companion.

Senior-friendly

Are Spanish Water Dogs good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Spanish Water Dogs good with cats? How friendly Spanish Water Dogs are toward cats?

Spanish Water Dogs are below average friendly toward cats. But with the right training and socialization, Spanish Water Dogs can be good with cats,

Dog Friendly

Do Spanish Water Dog dogs get along with other dogs? Are Spanish Water Dogs OK with other dogs?

Spanish Water Dogs are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Spanish Water Dog dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Spanish Water Dogs friendly with strangers?

Spanish Water Dogs are below average friendly around strangers. Keen of eye and sharp of tongue, most Spanish Water Dogs are very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Spanish Water Dogs will be friendly and outgoing. But many others have the standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

Playfulness

Do Spanish Water Dogs like to play? Are Spanish Water Dogs playful?

The Spanish Water Dog is a playful dog. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your Spanish Water Dog is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

Are Spanish Water Dog easily trained?

Spanish Water Dog dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Affectionate and loyal to their family
    Spanish Water Dog are known for being affectionate and loyal to their family.
  • Good with children
    They are good with children and make great playmates.
  • Boat Dog
    Boats are a favorite environment of the Spanish Water Dog breed.
  • Intelligent
    They are intelligent and trainable.
  • Hypoallergenic
    The hypoallergenic properties of Spanish Water Dogs make them a great option for those with allergies.
  • Good swimmers
    They are good swimmers and excel in water sports and activities.

Cons

  • Not suitable for office environment
    Spanish Water Dogs may struggle to adapt to an office environment.
  • Not cat-friendly
    Spanish Water Dogs are not recommended for households with cats.
  • Not Apartment Friendly
    Keeping a Spanish Water Dog inside the home is not recommended.
  • High energy levels
    They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
  • Grooming
    They require regular grooming to maintain their curly coat.