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Dutch Water Dog (Wetterhoun)
Large Breed
The Dutch Water Dog is a very intelligent breed of dog and physically able to deal with all types of weather, helping to make it a first class hunting dog.
Breed standards
Country of origin
The Netherlands
Weight
33-44 lbs (15-20 kgs) (standards may vary)
Height
Males 59 cm/ 23 inches; Females 55 cm/21 1/4 inches (standards may vary)
Coat
With the exception of the head and legs, the body is covered with tight curls consisting of firm, strong tufts of hair. The coat itself is rather coarse in texture.
Markings
Solid black or brown, or black with white markings, or brown with white markings.
Lifespan
12-13 years
A good-natured breed they form good bonds with their family and can be very friendly towards them. This makes them not only a popular dog for hunters but for families as well, giving the home an extra sense of security.
Temperament
The Dutch Water Dog is a friendly breed with its owners and family but is very reserved with strangers. They have an inherent desire to protect. Socialising and training from a young age may help this to some extent. They can be quite independent and stubborn in nature though they are very intelligent so any training must be done consistently and kindly.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
The Dutch Water Dog is a good watchdog which can be stubborn. The Dutch Water Dog was originally bred to hunt otters (which nowadays in many countries are a protected species); this breed is now versatile in other areas of hunting.
- Makes a good family pet and companion
- Excels as a guardian and watchdog
- No trimming or stripping required
- Happy in most climates
- Not a dog recommended for novice owners
- Requires sufficient daily exercise
- Requires regular grooming