Spanish Water Dog: Everything You Need to Know

The Spanish Water Dog is a charming, versatile, and energetic breed, known for its intelligence as much as its unique curly coat. Whether used as a working dog or as a family companion, it wins hearts with its loyalty and cheerful nature. If you're thinking of sharing your life with one or simply want to learn more about this fascinating breed, here on Waggy's blog, we'll tell you everything you need to know.

History and origin of the Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog has very ancient roots in the Iberian Peninsula. Its ancestors are believed to have arrived in Spain during the Islamic invasions, possibly from North Africa. Traditionally, it has been used for agricultural work, as a shepherd, and, above all, for hunting and working in water. Its curly, dense coat made it perfect for withstanding harsh weather conditions and protecting it from cold and wet weather while helping fishermen and shepherds.

In recent decades, the breed has gained popularity outside of Spain, both as a working dog and as a companion, thanks to its balanced character and excellent learning ability.

Main features

• Size and weight: The Spanish Water Dog is medium-sized. Males typically measure between 44 and 50 cm at the withers, while females reach between 40 and 46 cm. They weigh between 14 and 22 kg, and are robust and well-proportioned dogs.

• Characteristic coat: Its most distinctive feature is its curly, woolly, and dense coat, which can form cords or tighter curls if allowed to grow. It can come in solid colors such as white, black, or brown, or in two-color combinations. In addition to being beautiful, its coat is functional, protecting the dog from water, cold, and extreme heat.

To keep your dog in optimal condition, regular brushing and proper nutrition are essential. If you're looking to give your dog's coat and skin extra shine and health, you can consider dog supplements like Waggy's Shine, which contains omega-3, omega-6, and biotin, nutrients that contribute to healthy skin and coat, helping to keep it strong, soft, and shiny. It's an excellent option for breeds like the Spanish Water Dog, whose coat requires special care.

• Physical and athletic abilities: This is a very athletic and resilient breed, excelling in activities such as agility, obedience, water rescue, and herding. They need daily exercise and mental challenges to stay balanced and happy.

Personality and behavior

The Spanish Water Dog is known for being intelligent, obedient, and very loyal to its family. It tends to be reserved with strangers, but affectionate and loving with its immediate family. It is an active, hard-working dog that requires both physical and mental stimulation. If not provided with enough activity, it can become bored and develop destructive behaviors. They are excellent dogs for active families, athletes, or people who enjoy outdoor activities. They also generally get along well with children and other dogs, as long as they are well socialized from puppyhood.

Common diseases of a Spanish Water Dog

Although it is generally a fairly healthy breed, there are certain conditions that may occur more frequently in the Spanish Water Dog, such as the following:

• Hip dysplasia: A hereditary disease that affects the hip joint, causing pain and lameness. Responsible breeders test to reduce the incidence in their breeding lines. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding high-impact exercise in puppies helps prevent problems. Additionally, to support joint health and improve mobility, you can consider natural dog treats like Waggy's Mobility, formulated with cartilage from marine sources rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, turmeric, and hemp oil, ingredients that can contribute to maintaining joint health, always as a complement to veterinary care.

• Hypothyroidism: Some dogs of this breed may develop hypothyroidism, a condition that affects metabolism. Symptoms include weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy. It is treatable with medication under veterinary supervision.

• Eye problems: They may be prone to certain eye diseases, such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can lead to vision loss. Regular veterinary checkups help detect problems early.

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How long does a Spanish Water Dog live?

The Spanish Water Dog is a long-lived breed. Its life expectancy is typically between 12 and 14 years, although with good care, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and veterinary checkups, they can live even longer, although this also depends on genetic factors and overall health. Their active and healthy nature contributes to a good quality of life in old age.

Hygiene and care

The Spanish Water Dog, although a hardy and rustic breed, requires specific care to stay healthy and maintain a healthy coat.

• Frequent brushing: Their curly, woolly coat tends to tangle and mat if not brushed regularly. Ideally, brush at least two or three times a week, especially if their hair is long or corded. This helps keep it free of dirt and dead hair and prevents matting.

• Moderate Bathing: They don't need excessive bathing, as their skin can become dry. Generally, bathing every 4 to 6 weeks is sufficient, although the ideal frequency may vary depending on each dog's lifestyle and individual needs. After bathing, it is important to dry your pet's coat thoroughly to avoid retained moisture, which could cause unpleasant odors or skin problems.

• Ear and eye checks: Because of their activity in the water and their dense coat, their ears should be checked frequently to prevent infections. It's also advisable to check their eyes and keep the area clean to prevent excessive tearing or irritation.

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Nutrition and physical activity

The Spanish Water Dog is active and athletic, so it requires a balanced, high-quality diet that meets its energy needs.

It is recommended:

• Diet rich in good quality protein to maintain muscle and energy.

• Essential fatty acids (Omega 3 and 6) that promote the health of their skin and coat, something essential for this breed.

• Adjust food intake based on your physical activity to avoid becoming overweight, which could predispose you to joint problems such as hip dysplasia.

• To care for their coat and skin, you can supplement their diet with supplements like Waggy's Shine, formulated with omega-3, omega-6, and biotin, which help keep their coat shiny, soft, and healthy. Additionally, if your dog is very active or you want to support their joints, Waggy's Mobility is an excellent option, as it contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and turmeric to keep their joints healthy.

• As for exercise, this breed needs at least one or two daily sessions of activity, such as long walks, water play, or obedience and agility exercises, to stay balanced both physically and mentally.

How do I know if a Spanish Water Dog is right for me?

Before adopting a Spanish Water Dog, it is important to consider:

• Active lifestyle: This breed requires daily exercise and mental challenges. It's not ideal for sedentary people.

• Time for care: Its coat requires constant dedication to keep it in good condition.

• Socialization: He needs proper socialization from puppyhood to prevent him from becoming too reserved or wary of strangers.

• Space: Adapts well to apartments if given sufficient exercise, but greatly enjoys wide open spaces and outdoor activities.

If you're an active person who loves outdoor activities and can dedicate time to their training and care, the Spanish Water Dog can be an exceptional companion.

Conclusion

The Spanish Water Dog is a breed full of energy, intelligence, and nobility. Its unique coat and loyal nature make it a versatile dog, perfect for both active families and people who enjoy sports and nature. With proper nutrition, daily exercise, and specific care, this breed can provide years of happy and loyal companionship.

If you're willing to invest time in their training, exercise, and care, you'll have a vital and affectionate companion at your side. The Spanish Water Dog is, without a doubt, a gem of Spanish dog breeding!