Find the Right Breed of Dog for You

Dive into over 300 breed in our all inclusive online resource

Spanish Water Dog (Perro de Agua Espanol)

Medium Breed

The Spanish Water Dog is a rustic, well-proportioned breed, harmonious in shape and attractive in appearance.

Read more

Breed standards

Country of origin

Spain

Weight

Males approximately 18-22 kg/40-48 lbs; Females approximately 14-18 kg/31-40 lbs (standards may vary)

Height

Males approximately 42-52 cm/16 1/2 - 20 1/2 inches; Females approximately 38-48 cm/15-19 inches (standards may vary)

Coat

Woolly coat

Markings

White, black, chestnut or white and black or white and brown with no markings.

Lifespan

Average, 10-14 years

The Spanish Water Dog has an outstanding learning ability and among the breeds many talents are hunting, herding, search and rescue, bomb detection, narcotics detection, water sports, competitive agility, therapy work, and as a fisherman's dog. This versatile working dog is loyal and affectionate, and also makes a wonderful companion and family pet.

Temperament

The Spanish Water Dog is faithful, obedient, gay, hard working and well-balanced. He is tough, courageous and has a strong, natural herding instinct. The Spanish Water Dog is loyal, diligent, affectionate and intelligent, making a perfect companion and family pet. They are very versatile with an ability to learn new tasks very quickly, though do not enjoy repetition. Training should be consistent but varied to achieve the best results. Early socialisation is essential.

  • Poor
    Children
    Good
  • Very
    Combativeness
    Not very
  • Very
    Dominance
    Not very
  • Not very
    Friendliness
    Good
  • Not very
    Independence
    Very
  • Loud
    Noise
    Quiet
  • Not very
    Trainability
    Very

Good to know

The Spanish Water Dog is a magnificent, well-built breed, elegant in appearance with a beautiful curly coat and makes a good, versatile companion. The Spanish Water Dog was originally bred as a herder and guard.

Positive Plus Icon
  • An extremely versatile working dog
  • An excellent companion
  • A good guard and watchdog
  • A hypo-allergenic dog
Negative Minus Icon
  • Requires sufficient daily exercise
  • Requires varied mental stimulation
  • Can be active in the home
  • Can be prone to hip dysplasia