Spanish Water Dog
Updated December 2, 2025
The Spanish Water Dog is a multi-purpose breed from Spain, originally used for herding and as a gundog for water retrieval. They are intelligent, loyal, and athletic dogs that excel in various dog sports and make active family companions.
Loyal, Intelligent, Diligent, Affectionate, Brave
31-49 pounds
15.75-19.75 inches
12-14 years
Solid Black, Solid Brown, Solid Beige, Solid White, Black and White, Brown and White
At a Glance
Good with Kids
Jump to Section
About Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog is a multi-purpose breed from Spain, originally used for herding and as a gundog for water retrieval. They are intelligent, loyal, and athletic dogs that excel in various dog sports and make active family companions.
What Makes Spanish Water Dogs Special
The Spanish Water Dog is a robust, athletic, and rustic breed with a distinctive curly coat.
They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility as a herding, hunting, and water retrieving dog.
This breed forms a strong bond with its family and has a natural instinct to protect them.
Spanish Water Dog History & Origin
The Spanish Water Dog is an ancient breed with origins on the Iberian Peninsula, where they were used by shepherds and fishermen. There were originally three distinct populations in Spain which contributed to the breed known today. The breed was officially recognized in the late 20th century.
Ancestors of the breed are believed to have existed on the Iberian Peninsula as far back as 1110 A.D.
In the 1970s, enthusiasts began working to establish a breed standard.
The breed's versatility made them valuable for herding, hunting, and assisting fishermen.
The Spanish Water Dog Club of America is the AKC Parent Club for the breed.
Spanish Water Dog Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Spanish Water Dog Appearance
The Spanish Water Dog is a medium-sized, well-muscled dog that is slightly longer than it is tall.
Their most notable feature is their curly, woolly coat that can form cords.
They have an alert and attentive expression.
Physical Features
Ears
The ears are set at medium height, are triangular, and drop down.
Eyes
Their eyes are expressive and come in shades of hazel, chestnut, or dark brown, harmonizing with the coat color.
Nose
The nose pigment is the same color or darker than the darkest part of the coat.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The coat is of a woolly texture and is always curly. It can be sheared down or allowed to grow into cords.
Coat Color
Solid colors include black, brown, beige, and white. Bicolor variations with white are also seen. Tricolor is not permitted.
Tail
Some are born with a natural bobtail. Longer tails may be docked in some regions.
Spanish Water Dog Temperament
The Spanish Water Dog is known for being diligent, loyal, affectionate, and intelligent.
They possess strong natural herding and guarding instincts, often taking on the role of the family's guardian.
These dogs thrive on work and play, with their athleticism and hardworking nature making them excel at various tasks.
They can be wary of strangers, so early and continuous socialization with a variety of people and other animals is crucial for a well-adjusted dog.
Proper socialization at a young age helps them live harmoniously with small children.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Spanish Water Dogs are generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-14 years. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic health conditions.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Responsible breeders will screen for genetic conditions. Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and maintaining a proper weight are crucial for their health.
How to Care for a Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog is an active and intelligent breed that requires regular physical and mental stimulation. Their unique coat has specific grooming needs, and they benefit from consistent training and socialization.
Grooming
The Spanish Water Dog's coat is low-maintenance as it should not be brushed or combed.
Instead, the coat is sheared down at least once a year.
The coat's curly, woolly texture can form cords if left to grow long.
Bathing should only be done when necessary using a mild dog shampoo.
Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are also important aspects of their grooming routine.
Training
Spanish Water Dogs are highly intelligent and have a great learning capability, making them adaptable to many situations.
They respond well to positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods.
Early and ongoing socialization is essential to help them become well-adjusted and to manage their natural wariness of strangers.
Due to their intelligence, they require mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
Diet
A high-quality, balanced dog food is recommended for Spanish Water Dogs.
The amount of food should be based on their age, size, activity level, and the manufacturer's recommendations.
It's important to monitor their weight to prevent obesity.
Exercise
Spanish Water Dogs are an energetic breed that requires a significant amount of daily exercise.
They enjoy activities like swimming, hiking, and playing fetch.
Mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training is just as important as physical exercise.
At least an hour of vigorous exercise per day is generally recommended.
Environment
While they can adapt to apartment living with sufficient exercise, a home with a yard is often preferred.
They thrive in active households where they can be involved in family activities.
Early socialization to various sounds and environments is important, especially for those living in busy urban areas.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
While a home with a yard is ideal, they can adapt to apartment living if their high exercise needs are met.
Climate Adaptability
They tolerate cold weather well but should be monitored in extreme heat.
Apartment Living
Can adapt to apartment life with a committed owner who provides sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.
Best Suited For
Best suited for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities and can provide the dog with a 'job' to do.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Spanish Water Dogs good family dogs?
Yes, they can be excellent family dogs as they are loyal and affectionate. However, their high energy and need for socialization mean they are best suited for active families.
Do Spanish Water Dogs shed?
Spanish Water Dogs do not shed in the traditional sense, which can make them a good option for some people with allergies. Their coat needs to be sheared periodically.
How much exercise do Spanish Water Dogs need?
They are a high-energy breed and require at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily.
Are Spanish Water Dogs easy to train?
Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, but they can also be independent. They respond best to positive training methods.
Can Spanish Water Dogs live in apartments?
They can adapt to apartment living if they receive a significant amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation, but a home with a yard is often a better fit.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early and extensive socialization is paramount. Begin positive reinforcement training early.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to their ability, monitor for age-related health issues, and maintain a healthy weight.
First-Time Owner Tips
May be challenging for first-time owners due to their high energy, intelligence, and need for socialization.
Looking for a Spanish Water Dog?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.