Cantabrian Water Dog
Also known as Perro de Agua Cantábrico
Spain, Spaniels and gundogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 40–45 cm
- Weight
- 12–17 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Water-loving
- Lively
- Alert
- Willing
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Cantabrian Water Dog is a small-to-medium, always-white water dog from the coast of Cantabria in northern Spain, where it once worked alongside fishermen. It has a curly, waterproof outer coat over a thick undercoat. It is smaller and lighter than the Spanish Water Dog and genetically distinct from it.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 40–45 cm
- Adult weight
- 12–17 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most Cantabrian Water Dogs live 12–15 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
These dogs are lively, alert and keen to work with people, with a natural love of water. They tend to bond closely with their family.
- Water-loving
- Lively
- Alert
- Willing
Food
For a typical 14.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 830 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 580 ml–870 ml
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayThey need daily exercise and thrive on swimming, retrieving and other active games.
Grooming & shedding
The curly coat does not shed much but needs regular care to stop it matting, and should be clipped every few months. Dry the ears well after swimming.
Health
It is a rare breed, with only a little over a thousand dogs counted in 2009, almost all in Spain. Training should be positive and varied, as water dogs are quick learners. Little breed-specific health information is published.
The breed can be prone to
- No well-documented breed-specific health problems
- Ear infections can follow frequent swimming
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
- Eye examination
Not every Cantabrian Water Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
On Cantabria's coast these dogs retrieved fish that fell overboard, carried lines between boats and the quay, and guarded moored vessels. The breed may share roots with the French Barbet. After a request from the Cantabrian government, Spain recognised it officially in 2012.
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Spaniels and gundogs
- Recognition
- Officially recognised in Spanish law (2012); not recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina de España, FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Cantabrian Water Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Cantabrian Water Dog FAQ
How big does a Cantabrian Water Dog get?
Adult Cantabrian Water Dogs typically stand about 40–45 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 12–17 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Cantabrian Water Dogs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Cantabrian Water Dog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Cantabrian Water Dog need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Cantabrian Water Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Cantabrian Water Dogs shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Cantabrian Water Dogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Cantabrian Water Dog live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Cantabrian Water Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to no well-documented breed-specific health problems, ear infections can follow frequent swimming. Not every Cantabrian Water Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.