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History and Origins
Origin
Spain
History
It is believed that the origin of the Spanish water dog and other water dogs comes from the east. One theory says that the first water dogs arrived with the first Arab invasions of the Iberian peninsula begun in 711. Another theory says that they came with the Turkish ships that traded with Australia and a third says that the race was native of southern Spanish. Probably the three combined to give rise to the Spanish Water Dog. It was a very rustic and very adaptable dog, which was used in herding, collecting in water game, as an assistant at ports and peers and right hands of fishermen. [top]
Physical characteristics
Body: Complexion more or less rectangular (longer than high), back straight and chest quite long. The tail, aligned with the back, may be short by nature or amputated, in countries where allowed. Legs are straight with normal joint angle. Feet are round and compact. The neck is muscular, short and devoid of dewlap.
Head: The top of the head is flat, parallel to the muzzle of which is separated by a gentle stop. Full lips. The V-shaped ears are pendant. Expressive eyes and apart.
Height: 44 to 50 cm in males and 40 to 46 cm. in females.
Weight: Between 18 and 22 kg for males and females, 14-18 kg.
Coat: Abundant, curly, woolly and waterproof. Its form should resemble of a cord line while it becomes longer. There is not a haircut established for dog shows, as it can present a mantle shear or longer, so that the hair length is from 3 to 15 cm.
Color: All colors are admitted for the mantle, except for those white spotted Dalmatian type or tricolor. The most common colors are Brown and Black, with possible white marks or white with brown or black marks.
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Temperament
Character: It is an active dog, happy and lively, with an open and serene character. It remains vigilant and alert, but not often barks more than necessary. It likes to take the lead in games and is very intelligent and willing to learn. His nose is well developed. The coat protects it from bad weather, as it is quite waterproof.
Behavior: It is very sociable and open. Usually gets along well with other dogs and pets, and also with children. No problem of living with cats if properly socialized. He barks when he sees danger, but not beyond. He is friendly with everyone, but defends its master if it is threatened. [top]
General Care
Brushing: Unlike the Puli or Komondor, which have similar garments, garment laces of the Spanish Water Dog are formed naturally. Usually it is not necessary to comb or brush, but it is necessary to wash legs, rump and nose from time to time. Check regularly that there is no dirt or ear wax accumulated in the ears and also clean the edges of the eyes. Excess hair between the pads should be trimmed.
Training: Spanish water dog learns new orders relatively quickly and likes to carry out the tasks entrusted to it. Therefore, training is usually not difficult.
Exercise: It needs enough activity. It loves to swim and retrieve objects both from water or on the fly. It's a right dog for active people and athletes.
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Uses
It is very agile and can achieve great results in obedience trials, agility and catching objects on the fly. Some of these dogs have been trained to track and trace drugs. It is a breed not very widespread that can also be used as a companion dog. At present the breed has become lifesaving star, especially in natural disasters.
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