Spanish Water Dog
Also known as Perro de Agua Español · Chien d'Eau Espagnol · Spanischer Wasserhund
Spain, Water Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 40–50 cm
- Weight
- 14–22 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Energetic
- Eager to learn
- Water-loving
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog, or Perro de Agua Espanol, is a medium-sized working dog from Spain, used for herding and for helping on farms and with fishing and waterfowl work. It is sturdy and athletic with a curly, woolly coat that can be kept short or allowed to form cords. Colours include solid and parti-coloured coats.
Temperament
Intelligent, eager and loyal, with a strong bond to its family. It can be wary of strangers, and is often keen on water. It learns quickly and enjoys having a job.
Exercise
Needs daily active exercise and mental stimulation, such as training, fetching or swimming. A bored dog may invent its own tasks.
Grooming
The curly coat does not shed much but mats if neglected, so brush regularly or clip every few months. Dry the coat after swimming.
Care & wellbeing
Check and clean the ears, especially after water play. Keep nails trimmed and weight lean. Use a coat clip in hot weather to keep it comfortable.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 18 kg adult- Water
- 720 ml–1.1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 980 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Spanish Water Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A curly-coated, medium-sized Spanish working dog used for herding livestock and helping on farms and boats. It is intelligent, trainable and keen to work, and its woolly coat is usually clipped rather than brushed out.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Ear infections
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Eye tests
- DNA test for PRA
Not every Spanish Water Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 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.
Is a Spanish 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
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Spanish Water Dog get?
Adult Spanish Water Dogs typically stand about 40–50 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 14–22 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Spanish Water Dogs live?
Typically 12–14 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 Spanish 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 Spanish Water Dog need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Spanish Water Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Spanish Water Dogs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Spanish 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 Spanish Water Dog live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Spanish Water Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (pra), ear infections. Not every Spanish Water Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Water Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1999