Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog is a distinctive medium-sized gundog with roots in the Iberian Peninsula, where it was traditionally employed for herding and retrieving tasks.
Standing 40–50 cm tall and weighing 14–22 kg, this breed is instantly recognisable by its unique woolly, corded coat, which requires dedicated grooming care but sheds minimally.
14-22kg
Weight
Medium
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Spanish Water Dog
Their physical build reflects their working heritage, combining strength with agility for demanding water-based activities. Temperamentally, Spanish Water Dogs are intelligent and energetic companions that form deep bonds with their families. They balance alertness with sensitivity, displaying protective instincts without aggression. Their natural affinity for water and keen senses make them excellent sporting partners for active households. These dogs thrive with owners who can commit to approximately one hour of daily exercise and provide purposeful mental stimulation. They respond well to consistent, fair training and benefit significantly from socialisation from puppyhood. Spanish Water Dogs suit active families or experienced owners with access to outdoor space and preferably countryside or suburban environments. With a lifespan of 12–14 years, they make rewarding long-term companions for those willing to invest in their grooming requirements, training, and exercise needs. They adapt well to family life when their physical and mental needs are adequately met, making them ideal for households that value an intelligent, loyal, and active dog.
Spanish Water Dog at a Glance
- Group
- Gundog
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 14–22 kg
- Height
- 40–50 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Medium
- Sheds
- No
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £400–£600
Spanish Water Dog Lifestyle
The Spanish Water Dog doesn't need a huge amount of indoor space and benefits from access to a small or medium-sized garden. They tend to do best out in the countryside.
Dog Food for Spanish Water Dog
Top-rated foods for Medium breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Spanish Water Dog
Spanish Water Dog Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Spanish Water Dog weighing around 18 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£3.61 - £3.84
Per month
£108 - £115
Per year
£1316 - £1403
Spanish Water Dog Characteristics
The Spanish Water Dog demands serious exercise and won't be happy with a quick stroll around the block and trains well and tends to enjoy learning new skills. They are very patient and gentle with kids, but can be left for short to moderate periods without issue. The coat benefits from a brush once or twice a week and sheds moderately. They are sharp and quick-witted, which is a joy, but means they need keeping mentally occupied.
Spanish Water Dog Pros & Cons
Pros
- Loyal and affectionate family companions who form close and lasting bonds
- Their low-shedding, corded coat makes them a practical choice for allergy sufferers
- Intelligent and highly trainable, taking well to positive reinforcement methods
- A natural love of water makes them a fantastic companion for outdoor and water-based activities
Cons
- Their corded coat needs regular maintenance to prevent matting from taking hold
- High exercise needs make them a poor fit for owners with a more sedentary lifestyle
- Relatively rare in the UK, which means limited availability and higher puppy prices
- Their natural wariness means early and thorough socialisation is essential
