Spanish Water Dog

The origin of the Spanish Water Dog is filled with varying theories. However, one common belief is that it is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, dating back to 1100 CE. As the name suggests, the breed hails from Spain and is well adapted to its climate and terrains. The SWD’s main role was to herd flocks of sheep and goats from one pasture to another but it was also tasked to retrieve game on water and land.

Efforts to start a breeding programme began in 1975, resulting in the modern Spanish Water Dogs we see today. It was recognised by the Spanish Kennel Club in 1985 and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale 14 years later. Although the Spanish Water Dog has been recognised by most international registries like The Kennel Club, it remains a relatively unknown breed in many countries.

The Spanish Water Dog is a robust and athletic medium dog that stands 40 to 50 centimetres and weighs 31 to 48 pounds. It has a strong and elegant head with a flat skull and slight stop. Its nose has well open nostrils, oval shaped medium eyes are set wide apart with a kind and expressive look, and V-shaped ears are slightly rounded at the tips. The nose, eye rims and paw pads have the same colour of the darkest part of its coat or darker. It has a strong jaw with a perfect scissor bite, a short neck, a compact body, a level back, a deep chest, and well-sprung ribs.

The Spanish Water Dog sports a distinctive curly coat with a woolly texture, which forms cords when long. The accepted colours according to KC standards are solid black, brown or white of different shades, black & white, and brown & white.

The Spanish Water Dog is a happy, good-tempered and courageous dog. As a true sporting dog, it loves being in the outdoors, being able to put its remarkable sense of smell to good use. Likewise, it also likes being in a home environment and just lounging around with family. Because of its calm disposition and affinity for children of all ages, it is a great family companion. However, it is better off in a family with older children that know how to act around active dogs appropriately. It is also more suitable to experienced dog owners who can handle this type of dog and provide its specific needs.

Early socialisation is vital since this breed has a tendency to be aloof toward people it does not know. While being wary of strangers can be a good characteristic of watchdogs, make sure that your Spanish Water Dog does not become unapproachable or unfriendly toward everybody. When it comes to other pets, it usually gets along with those it grows up with, including cats but care should be taken around other people’s cats and small animals.

• Senior and less active: up to 990 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 1,110 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 1,230 calories daily

Since the Spanish Water Dog is not a common breed in the UK, you will have to wait for a while to get one. Before registering your interest with a breeder, make sure to do your research so you won’t be wasting time and money. The price to buy a Spanish Water Dog puppy will be £400 to £800 and up. Pet insurance will set you back £30 to £50 a month, depending on the company and the coverage you select.

For the monthly food costs, prepare to spend around £40 a month. Veterinary expenses will set you back £1,000 a year for routine check-ups, vaccinations, worm/flea treatments, and neutering. Don’t forget to buy the basic necessities such as sleeping essentials, bowls, grooming kits, and toys, which will cost around £200.