Spanish Water Dog Breed Guide
Also known as: Perro de Agua Español, SWD
Woolly Spanish workers, Spanish Water Dogs are athletic, intelligent herding dogs whose curly coats and versatility suit those wanting active working companions.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
14-22 kg
Lifespan
12-14 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Low
Size
Medium
Weight
14-22 kg
Lifespan
12-14 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Low
About Spanish Water Dogs
Developed in Spain during ancient times, the Spanish Water Dog was bred as a versatile working dog for herding sheep and assisting fishermen. Their distinctive curly coat and webbed feet made them excellent swimmers and all-around working dogs along the Spanish coast.
Their dense, curly coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every few months. Spanish Water Dogs are intelligent and energetic, known for their strong working instincts and versatility.
They are devoted to their families and generally friendly with strangers and other dogs. Spanish Water Dogs need substantial daily exercise and excel at activities that engage their working instincts. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and bloat that can affect the breed.
Complete Care Guide for Spanish Water Dogs
Expert advice on keeping your Spanish Water Dog healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for your Spanish Water Dog requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs throughout different life stages. A well-balanced diet forms the cornerstone of their health, supporting their naturally energetic lifestyle and maintaining strong muscle condition.
High-quality protein sources should comprise a significant portion of their diet, complemented by appropriate levels of healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. Puppies require specially formulated food with higher protein and calcium levels to support growth, while adult dogs benefit from balanced maintenance formulas. Senior Spanish Water Dogs often need adjusted protein levels and additional joint support nutrients.
Portion control plays a vital role in maintaining healthy weight, particularly given this breed's enthusiastic approach to food. Regular monitoring of body condition helps prevent weight gain that could impact their agility and overall health. While treats serve as valuable training tools, they should constitute no more than 10% of daily caloric intake.
Food sensitivities occasionally present in Spanish Water Dogs warrant careful observation when introducing new ingredients. Signs of dietary intolerance may include digestive upset, skin irritation, or changes in coat condition. Maintaining a food diary during dietary transitions can help identify potential triggers and ensure optimal nutritional support.
How healthy is your Spanish Water Dog?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Spanish Water Dogs from our community of pet parents
Spanish Water Dogs are known for their loyal, affectionate and intelligent nature. They're very active and athletic, and they often excel in obedience, agility, and working activities. They are also highly adaptable, equally comfortable in both rural and urban environments, provided they receive sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Despite their friendly disposition, Spanish Water Dogs can be somewhat reserved with strangers, but they are typically very protective and devoted towards their immediate family.
Dog Breeds Similar to Spanish Water Dog
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Spanish Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dog
Curly-coated fishermen's helpers, Portuguese Water Dogs are athletic, intelligent working dogs whose swimming ability and hypoallergenic coats suit active aquatic lifestyles.
Poodle
Intelligent athletes in curly coats, Poodles are versatile, hypoallergenic dogs whose intelligence and trainability make them excellent companions in three sizes.