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The unique look of these unbreakable laborers begins with the coat. It occurs naturally from curly and woolly head to foot, and when grown up often forms tight, thin cords. In full coat, facial hair covering the expressive brown eyes. The color may be black, brown, beige, white, or particulate (with black, brown, beige, white). The term “rustic” is often used to describe the overall appearance of this strong dog of medium size (a male will stand slightly less than 20 over the shoulder).
The versatile Spanish water dog has been a fixture of the lakes and grasslands of the Iberian Peninsula for so long that we are not quite sure how it got there. One theory suggests that it was brought from North Africa by the Moors who once occupied Spain. Another believes that the breed was introduced into Spain by Turkish merchants, hence its old surname “Turkish Dog”. The Spanish Water Dog has always been a dual-purpose breed, used as both waterfowl and herd.
A rustic breed of the Iberian Peninsula, the Spanish Water Dog is a strong, medium-sized, well-proportioned, athletic dog fit to perform a variety of tasks, including shepherds, hunting, and fishermen assistance. He is a loyal, alert and intelligent Working Dog with a strong shepherd instinct. His work ability is attributed to his intense desire to delight. In profile, the Spanish Water Dog is slightly longer than tall. She has a distinctive curly coat, which suits her motherland’s variation of moisture and drought.
The gestation period in lasts for 60-64 days The primary period of the reproductive cycle of the female is called Proestrus and goes on for around 9 days. During this time the females begin to draw in males. The subsequent part is the Estrus when the bitch is receptive to the male. It goes on for around 3 to 11 days. The third part is the Diestrus. Usually, it happens around day 14. In this period the bitch’s discharge changes for distinctive red and reaching its end. The vulva gets back to average, and she will no longer allow mating. The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time span between heat periods ordinarily keeps going around a half year. The litter size ranges between 6 to 8 puppies at a time’
The most important basic guidelines for a properly crafted Spanish water dog are that the coat should never be brushed, and it should be of equal length. The frequency of clipping depends on the owner’s choice of hair length on their dog, with some owners letting it grow for several months to form cords. While the breed is generally described as a low-maintenance coat, the coring process takes constant attention and some expertise. Since the cording process for this breed differs from other corded breeds (such as the Komondor or Bergamasco), owners are encouraged to find someone experienced with a Spanish water dog coat for those willing to do it for the first time. The race’s national parent club, the Spanish Water Dog Club of America, has members on its e-mail list who are always ready to offer advice and support.
It is a highly intelligent and active (both mentally and physically) breed. They thrive on the problem-solving nature of positive training using a clicker or similar training style. SWDs are highly biddable and willing to please and show themselves to be highly capable and very versatile. Due to rigorous training methods SWD may lose his enthusiasm for what he asked for, and he may be “turned off”. Potential owners are reminded that as dogs graze, some SWDs have too much prey drive. They require a reliable recall. Even after diligent training, some people will not be able to resist the temptation of squirrels, rabbits, or deer. The nature of the Spanish water dog deserves special attention. These dogs are very loyal to their owners but can be quite wary of strangers. Positive new experiences are necessary along with ongoing socialization from an early age.
Spanish water dogs benefit from a good run at least once a day. Once they reach full maturity and the bone growth plates are closed, they have the ability to do long, strenuous exercises and make great companions for activities such as running, hiking, or snow-shoeing . With their medium size and natural athleticism, they enjoy being active, but they also have a good “off switch” for more systematic time at home. SWDs are usually strong swimmers, and playing fetch in the water is a great way to burn energy without the risk of injury that can lead to repetitive effects through recapture on land.
While some owners encounter occasional food allergies with their Spanish water dogs, the breed should do well on high quality dog food, whether manufactured commercially or with the supervision and approval of your veterinarian Get ready. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult, or senior). Owners may want to consider the activity level of the dog when choosing the type of food and the level of protein, fat, etc. Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight levels. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Contact your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times. SWDs are also strong chewers and enjoy enough pore-bone from time to time, which can also help keep their teeth clean.
Responsible breeders will examine their stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia and eye anomalies. As with all breeds, the Spanish Water Dog’s ears should be regularly checked for signs of infection, and teeth should be brushed frequently, ideally every day, using toothpaste designed for dogs.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club:
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