Description. The Spanish Water Dog is a medium-sized dog standing it some 17 to 20 inches in height for the male and the slightly smaller female being 16 to 18 inches in height. The males weigh 40-49 pounds and the females between 30 and 40 pounds. They have a strong flat skull, and head that is carried with a certain elegant style. They have a short well muscled neck have straight powerful withers. They have an ample sized chest that leads to a slightly tucked up belly area. The Spanish Water Dog tail is set at a medium height and is commonly docked, in countries where this is permitted. They have a curly coat which can be corded when long. If showing these dogs the maximum length of the hair is 4 inches. They have acute shaggy appearance and come in a variety of colours, which include; White, white and brown, white and black, and differing shades of all of these. The Spanish Water Dog can come in tricolour but this would not be normally allowed showing, along with the hazelnut and tan or black and tan.

History. The exact origins of the Spanish water dog are not really known, although, it is known that they are an ancient breed; there are several theories, as to their origins. One theory lays claim that Turkish merchants introduce this dog to the Iberian peninsular, and spread throughout the Mediterranean from there. Another one of the theories claims the Spanish Water Dog to have had their origins in North Africa. As with so many an ancient things reliable records do not really exist. The first reliable record was in 1110AD. Documentation exists from this time, which describes a dog, but is most likely their ancestor was fairly common on the Iberian Peninsula.

Temperament. With the Spanish water dog, we see a well-balanced working dog that has very strong hunting, herding, and guarding instincts. They are also versatile dogs that are extremely intelligent. They are easily trained, as long as they are stimulated. To avoid problems they require to be well socialised from a young age. They have a general temperament of a larger dog, making it important that you assert yourself as the leader over them. Training should be carried out in a consistent firmer manner with fairness and affection. If you do not establish yourself well with this dog, they will become overprotective and quite territorial. The Spanish water dog should not be unsupervised when left with small children. It is important to mentally stimulate his dog on a regular basis, so they do not become bored. As with all working dogs exercise is of obvious importance.

Health issues. The Spanish water dog is a generally healthy dog living 10-14 years. They can suffer hip dysplasia. There is also a risky PRA; it is a genetic eye disease. As a water dog they can also be prone to ear infections, particular care needs to be taken here to avoid any problems. Beyond that their greatest health risk is due to their high energy levels, and they can have a tendency to run into stationary objects.

Grooming. The general care for the Spanish water dog will differ depending on whether they will be a working dog, a show dog, or a family pet. If you are showing your dog, they will probably need care at a professional salon. With a family pet or working dog you will probably require them to be trimmed shorter, to save their hair from becoming tangled and matted. Whatever the task of this dog, they will require regular brushing and combing. Do not bath this dog too often, and only use mild shampoos and conditioners.

Living conditions. They can adapt quite well to most circumstances and environments. The Spanish water dog is very hardly and can tolerate cold and hot conditions with no particular problems. They require a large amount of exercise, and are not well suited to living in an apartment, preferring at least a medium sized garden.