Dog Breeds - Spanish Water Dog

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed tends to show towards family members and familiar faces can vary. Certain breeds may reserve their warmth exclusively for their owners, whereas others are generous with their affections treating all acquaintances as if they were their closest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The degree to which a dog breed is equipped to handle the antics of children coupled with its affinity for family life, varies extensively. It is imperative, however to monitor interactions between dogs and children of all ages, especially those not accustomed to canine companionship.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The natural propensity for friendliness towards fellow canines differs among breeds. While all dogs require careful supervision during meetings and introductions with other dogs, some are inherently more disposed to amicable interactions, whether it be in the home environment or out in communal settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The quantity of fur a dog breed sheds can be considerable. High-shedding breeds will demand more regular grooming, heighten the risk of allergies for some individuals and necessitate a steadier commitment to household cleaning and the use of lint rollers.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming demands of a breed encompassing bathing, brushing and trimming can differ markedly. When evaluating the level of grooming a breed needs reflect on the amount of time, patience and financial resources you have for ongoing coat care. Keep in mind that nail clipping is a standard necessity for all dog breeds.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
When considering a new dog factor in how much a breed is likely to drool particularly if you are someone with a zeal for a clean and orderly environment, those breeds that can leave your arms soppy or your garments damp may not be your ideal match.
COAT TYPE +
Corded, Curly
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
Different dog breeds have distinct reactions to strangers ,some are consistently reserved or careful, while others seem to seize every chance to make a new human friend no matter where they are
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The fervor for play that a breed exhibits often extends beyond the puppy phase. Certain breeds retain a youthful zest for games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their adult life, while others prefer lounging on the sofa alongside you for the majority of their days.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
A breed's adaptability to change is an important trait to consider. While some dogs seamlessly adjust to shifts in living environments, noise levels, weather conditions and routines, others might struggle with these day-to-day fluctuations.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The ease of training varies significantly across breeds, some are eager learners, keen on mastering new skills to please their owners, while others lean toward independence following their whims rather than commands.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training varies significantly across breeds, some are eager learners, keen on mastering new skills to please their owners, while others lean toward independence following their whims rather than commands.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental engagement requirements of dog breeds can be markedly different. High-energy breeds thrive on constant activity and are at their best when they have ample opportunities to run, jump and play. They typically need vigorous and regular exercise, paired with engaging tasks to keep them mentally sharp. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more content with a sedate lifestyle often preferring to lounge and nap over strenuous physical activity. These dogs usually require less exercise and can be a good match for those looking for a more relaxed companion. It's important to match a dog's energy levels to your lifestyle to ensure a harmonious living situation.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency with which this breed expresses itself, be it through barking or howling varies widely. Certain dogs might alert you to every stranger and sparrow they see, whereas others reserve their barks for specific scenarios. Even breeds known for not barking can communicate employing alternative sounds to make their presence known.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The necessity for mental engagement to ensure a breed's well-being and happiness varies. Dogs bred for specific roles often thrive on tasks demanding cognitive skills, such as problem-solving and concentration. If they aren't provided with suitable mental stimulation, they may take the initiative to start their own kind of mischief-making activities, which are often less than agreeable to their owners.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed tends to show towards family members and familiar faces can vary. Certain breeds may reserve their warmth exclusively for their owners, whereas others are generous with their affections treating all acquaintances as if they were their closest companions.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The degree to which a dog breed is equipped to handle the antics of children coupled with its affinity for family life, varies extensively. It is imperative, however to monitor interactions between dogs and children of all ages, especially those not accustomed to canine companionship.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The natural propensity for friendliness towards fellow canines differs among breeds. While all dogs require careful supervision during meetings and introductions with other dogs, some are inherently more disposed to amicable interactions, whether it be in the home environment or out in communal settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The quantity of fur a dog breed sheds can be considerable. High-shedding breeds will demand more regular grooming, heighten the risk of allergies for some individuals and necessitate a steadier commitment to household cleaning and the use of lint rollers.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming demands of a breed encompassing bathing, brushing and trimming can differ markedly. When evaluating the level of grooming a breed needs reflect on the amount of time, patience and financial resources you have for ongoing coat care. Keep in mind that nail clipping is a standard necessity for all dog breeds.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

When considering a new dog factor in how much a breed is likely to drool particularly if you are someone with a zeal for a clean and orderly environment, those breeds that can leave your arms soppy or your garments damp may not be your ideal match.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Corded, Curly

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

Different dog breeds have distinct reactions to strangers ,some are consistently reserved or careful, while others seem to seize every chance to make a new human friend no matter where they are

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The fervor for play that a breed exhibits often extends beyond the puppy phase. Certain breeds retain a youthful zest for games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their adult life, while others prefer lounging on the sofa alongside you for the majority of their days.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

A breed's adaptability to change is an important trait to consider. While some dogs seamlessly adjust to shifts in living environments, noise levels, weather conditions and routines, others might struggle with these day-to-day fluctuations.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The ease of training varies significantly across breeds, some are eager learners, keen on mastering new skills to please their owners, while others lean toward independence following their whims rather than commands.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental engagement requirements of dog breeds can be markedly different. High-energy breeds thrive on constant activity and are at their best when they have ample opportunities to run, jump and play. They typically need vigorous and regular exercise, paired with engaging tasks to keep them mentally sharp. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more content with a sedate lifestyle often preferring to lounge and nap over strenuous physical activity. These dogs usually require less exercise and can be a good match for those looking for a more relaxed companion. It's important to match a dog's energy levels to your lifestyle to ensure a harmonious living situation.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The necessity for mental engagement to ensure a breed's well-being and happiness varies. Dogs bred for specific roles often thrive on tasks demanding cognitive skills, such as problem-solving and concentration. If they aren't provided with suitable mental stimulation, they may take the initiative to start their own kind of mischief-making activities, which are often less than agreeable to their owners.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Black & White	019
Brown	061
Brown & White	063
White w/Black Nose	508
White w/Brown Nose	509
Beige w/Black Nose	510
Beige w/Brown Nose	511
Beige & White w/Black Nose	512
Beige & White w/Brown Nose	513
White & Black	202
White & Brown	204
White & Beige w/Black Nose	514
White & Beige w/Brown Nose	515

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Tan Points	029

About The Breed

The tireless Spanish Water Dog serves a dual role distinguished by its coat of woolly loops. In its native land, it excels at both herding and retrieving waterfowl, all while winning hearts as an energetic household pet and an alert guardian.

These dogs captivate with their appearance starting from their naturally curly and plush coats that span from head to toe. Left to grow, the fur may develop into dense narrowing cords. When in its full glory, the coat shrouds the warm brown eyes behind a veil of facial hair. The color palette ranges from black to brown, beige, white and even particolored patterns combining these hues with white. "Rustic" aptly captures the essence of this robust medium-sized canine with males typically reaching just below 20 inches at the shoulder in stature.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A SPANISH WATER DOG

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Spanish Water Dog: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Conscientious breeders prioritize health by testing for conditions including hip dysplasia and eye irregularities. It's important for all breeds including the Spanish Water Dog to undergo routine examinations of their ears to prevent infections and to maintain dental hygiene with frequent brushing ideally daily using canine-specific toothpaste. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	The foundational grooming principles for a well-kept Spanish Water Dog emphasize that its coat should never be brushed and ought to be trimmed to an even length throughout. How often you clip is a matter of personal preference based on your desired hair length for your dog, some let it grow out for several months to allow for cord formation. Although oftentimes referred to as low-maintenance crafting those signature cords does require consistent care and a bit of know-how. The cording technique for Spanish Water Dogs is notably different from other corded breeds like the Komondor or Bergamasco, so first-timers looking to navigate this process should seek advice from those familiar with the breed's grooming needs. For assistance, the Spanish Water Dog Club of America hosts a community of knowledgeable breed enthusiasts on their email list who are eager to offer guidance and support.

Exercise

	Spanish Water Dogs thrive with a vigorous daily run. After reaching full maturity when their growth plates have sealed, they’re well-suited for extensive and vigorous workouts and are excellent partners for pursuits like running, hiking or snowshoeing. With their medium build and inherent agility, these dogs love an active lifestyle. However, they also possess a commendable ability to unwind and relax at home. As natural swimmers, Spanish Water Dogs often delight in water-based fetch, a fantastic exercise to expend their energy while minimizing the injury risks associated with repetitive fetching on harder surfaces.

Training

	The Spanish Water Dog is an incredibly sharp and high-spirited breed demanding both mental and physical stimulation. They revel in the challenge that comes with positive reinforcement training techniques, such as clicker training and flourish in such learning environments. This breed is highly cooperative and eager to please demonstrating great proficiency and adaptability in a variety of tasks. However, it's important to avoid harsh training methods, as these can dampen their eagerness and may lead them to become indifferent to learning. Future owners should bear in mind that true to their herding heritage, Spanish Water Dogs may exhibit a pronounced prey drive. It's crucial to cultivate a dependable recall command as despite persistent training, some may find the lure of wildlife like squirrels, rabbits or deer irresistible. Additionally, the Spanish Water Dog's temperament is noteworthy. These dogs form deep bonds with their family, yet can be reserved around unfamiliar faces. Continuous socialization and exposure to a breadth of positive experiences from a young age are indispensable in shaping a well-adjusted and sociable canine.

Nutrition

	Spanish Water Dogs may sometimes experience food sensitivities but typically, they should thrive on high-quality dog food, whether it's commercially produced or prepared at home under the guidance and approval of a vet. It's essential to match the diet to the dog's life stage, whether they are a puppy, an adult or a senior. When selecting food options, an owner should take into account their dog's energy levels, tailoring the diet's protein and fat content accordingly. Since some Spanish Water Dogs are inclined to gain excess weight monitoring their calorie intake and maintaining a healthy weight is critical. While treats are beneficial for training, it's important to offer them in moderation to avoid the risk of obesity. It's also vital to understand which human foods are safe for canine consumption and which are not. Any concerns about your dog's weight or diet should be discussed with your vet. Moreover, access to clean fresh water is a constant necessity. As avid chewers, Spanish Water Dogs often appreciate a sturdy knuckle-bone, which not only provides them with enjoyment but can also contribute to dental hygiene.

Historiography

The adaptable Spanish Water Dog has been a familiar presence among the waterways and grasslands of the Iberian Peninsula for such a lengthy span that its origins are somewhat mysterious. There's a theory that the breed traveled from North Africa with the Moors during their occupation of Spain. Alternatively, some believe Turkish merchants were responsible for ushering the breed into Spain, which is reflected in its antiquated moniker, 'The Turkish Dog.' Notably, the Spanish Water Dog has always been recognized for its dual capabilities valued both for its skills in retrieving waterfowl and its proficiency in herding sheep.