Spanish Water Dog

Španělský vodní pes

Spanish Water Dog – front view — Photo: Saraqwerty, CC BY-SA 3.0, source

Spanish Water Dog – in motion — Photo: auschnitt by Caronna 08:36, 16 June 2006 (UTC), CC BY-SA 2.5, source

Spanish Water Dog – puppy — Photo: Saraqwerty, CC BY-SA 3.0, source

Key facts

FCI group	8. Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs
Country of origin	Spain
Category	Medium
Height at withers	40–50 cm
Weight	14–22 kg

Recognition features

Always curly, woolly coat that may form cords when long
White, black, chestnut or bicoloured (white with black or brown)
Rustic, rather elongated athletic dog with triangular drooping ears

Purpose

Used as a shepherd dog, hunting dog and assistant to the fisherman.

History

The presence of this dog on the Iberian Peninsula is most ancient and its origin is the same as that of the old Barbet. It is most numerous in Andalusia, where it has been known for centuries as the Turkish dog. Its coat is adapted to the humidity and drought of marshy regions, qualifying it as a shepherd dog and a helper to waterfowl hunters and fishermen.

Coat

Always curly and woolly; curly when short, may form cords when long. Complete even clipping is accepted. Colours: solid (white, black, chestnut in their shades) or bicoloured (white and black or white and brown); tricolours and black and tan or hazelnut and tan are not admitted.

Similar breeds

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.