Description
A relatively small, curly coated breed, the Spanish Water Dog is a long established but still relatively rare dog in his homeland, where he was first seen in the show ring in the 1970s.
He is a multi-purpose dog with many functions, which include working as a water dog and herding sheep. In the UK, he has been allocated to the Gundog Group because enthusiasts feel that his main use is as a water retriever.
His build and coat are similar to those of other water retriever breeds that come from the Mediterranean area, such as the Lagotto Romagnolo from Italy.
He is a good-natured, lively dog, whose curly coat should be clipped but not shaped.
Breed Group
Gundog
Vulnerable Native Breed
No
Size
Medium
How much exercise?
Up to 1 hour per day
Length of coat
Medium
How much grooming?
More than once a week
Supposedly sheds?*
No
Town or Country
Country
Type of home
Small or Large House
Minimum Garden Size
Small/Medium
Lifespan
Over 10 Years
* If you are asthmatic or have an allergy, you should consult your medical advisor before considering obtaining a dog. More information can also be found on
the Kennel Club website.
The Gundog Breed Group
Dogs that were originally trained to find live game and/or to retrieve game that had been shot and wounded. This group is divided into four categories - Retrievers, Spaniels, Hunt/Point/Retrieve, Pointers and Setters - although many of the breeds are capable of doing the same work as the other sub-groups. They make good companions, their temperament making them ideal all-round family dogs.