Spanish Water Dog
Description
The Spanish Water Dog, or Perro de Agua Español, comes from the Iberian Peninsula. Its exact origins are unclear, but it likely dates back over a thousand years. Traditionally, it worked alongside Spanish shepherds, handling herding, hunting, and even fishing tasks. This dog is built for work and thrives on having a job to do. It weighs between 31 and 49 pounds and sports a medium-length, curly or corded coat that sets it apart. These dogs are quick learners and eager to please, making training rewarding but necessary. They tend to be reserved around strangers but bond closely with family and other pets when socialized early. Their strong herding instinct means they might try to herd people or animals, so consistent guidance helps. Expect a vocal dog that will alert you to anything unusual.
Grooming
The Spanish Water Dog’s coat is unique. It naturally forms tight curls or cords that hold shedding close. This means less loose hair around the house but more hands-on care. After baths, separate the damp cords all the way to the skin to avoid matting and mildew. Drying takes time, especially in humid weather, so plan accordingly. Maintenance happens every 6 to 8 weeks. Regular checks keep cords clean and healthy. Here’s what you need to do: - Bathe only when necessary to avoid stripping natural oils - Separate cords while wet to prevent clumping - Dry thoroughly, using a slow, patient approach - Trim around eyes and paws for comfort - Check ears regularly for debris Pro tip: Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently separate cords during drying. This keeps the coat airy and prevents unpleasant odors. Coat colors range from solid black or brown to combinations with white or beige, often with tan points. White areas may show dirt more easily, so spot clean as needed.
Learn the Curly routine:
→ Complete Curly Grooming Guide
Walking
Spanish Water Dogs need about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. They’re built for endurance and love variety. One walk can be a brisk neighborhood stroll; the other, a more challenging route with hills or off-leash play in a secure area. This breed thrives on mental and physical stimulation, so mix in some obedience drills or fetch to keep things interesting. Example routine: Morning: 40-minute walk with basic commands and leash work. Evening: 45-minute hike or play session at the dog park. Keep a steady pace but watch for signs of fatigue. This dog’s vocal nature means they might bark at wildlife or passersby, so consistent leash training helps keep walks calm and controlled.
Boarding
When boarding a Spanish Water Dog, provide a crate sized between 36 and 42 inches to ensure comfort. They enjoy active playtimes, so plan two daily play blocks filled with fetch, tug, or water games if possible. Enrichment should include scent or brain games to engage their sharp minds. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and predictably to build trust. This breed can be reserved with new people but warms up with gentle, consistent interaction. Their herding instincts mean they might try to round up other dogs or staff, so supervision during group play is important. A structured routine helps reduce stress and keeps them happy while away from home.