The Spanish Water Dog, also known as Perro de Agua Español, Turkish Water Dog, Spanish Water Dog, or Spanish Water Spaniel, is an ancient breed originating from Spain, particularly Andalusia. Traditionally used as a herding dog and for hunting waterfowl, it is also an excellent companion for fishing. Its name refers to its strong affinity for water, and it is often compared to the ancient Barbet.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Spain (Andalusia)
- Type: Working dog (herder, fisherman)
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 18-23 kg
- Female: 14-19 kg
- Height:
- Male: 45-50 cm
- Female: 42-48 cm
- Life expectancy: 10-14 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Not recommended, prefers large spaces)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Rather independent, may be reserved with children)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Adapts well but may need supervision)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Prefers familiar environments)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Does not have enough space to thrive in an apartment)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate maintenance, requires regular brushing)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Relatively affordable)
- Care frequency:
- Brushing: 1 to 2 times a week to avoid tangles
- Baths: Frequent if exposed to muddy or salty water
- Other care: Ear cleaning, nail care, monitoring general hygiene needs
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 500-1000 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 450-650 €
🏡 Important note
The Spanish Water Dog is an energetic dog that requires space to expend energy. It is particularly suited to living in natural environments where it can practice its working and hunting skills. If you are an active owner with a large garden or have access to vast spaces, this dog will be an excellent companion. It is not the best choice for apartment living, but it can thrive in rural areas or by the sea, where it can enjoy water and physical activities.
