Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog lives 12 to 14 years. Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and hypothyroidism occur in the breed. Neuroaxonal dystrophy, a neurological condition, has also been documented in some lines. Source from breeders who health test for eyes and hips. Annual vet visits keep most Spanish Water Dogs healthy throughout their active life.

Your Spanish Water Dog develops a naturally corded coat that you must never brush once the cords begin forming. Separate the cords by hand regularly during the first year to prevent them from fusing into large clumps. Bathing takes time since the cords absorb water and dry slowly. Trim the coat to a uniform length once or twice a year to keep it manageable.

Your Spanish Water Dog needs 45 to 60 minutes of active exercise daily. They love to swim, run, and work in varied terrain. Field activities, agility, and herding games all suit their versatile, athletic nature. Without consistent activity, they become restless and vocal. Their history as an all purpose farm dog means they thrive with a real job.

Spanish Water Dogs are intelligent, energetic, and highly trainable with consistent positive reinforcement. They bond closely to their family but can be reserved with strangers, so socialize extensively from puppyhood. They excel in agility, obedience, and water retrieving activities. Keep sessions varied and challenging since they bore quickly with repetition.

Feed a quality medium breed formula with good protein twice daily. Adjust portions based on your dog activity level since an active working dog needs more calories than a lightly exercised pet. Monitor body condition monthly. Fresh water should always be available, especially after swimming sessions.

The Spanish Water Dog developed in Spain as an all purpose working dog used by farmers and fishermen along the Iberian coast for centuries. Their roles included herding sheep and goats, assisting fishermen with nets, and retrieving waterfowl. Their corded, water resistant coat protected them in cold water and during cold nights outdoors. The breed was formally recognized by the Spanish Royal Canine Society in 1985 and by the FCI in 1999.