Spanish Water Dog Breed description: Character & Co

What is the origin of Spanish Water Dogs?

There are different theories about the origin of the Perro de Agua Español, as the sweet curly haired dog is called in its native country. They say that it first came to Spain with North African Moors. But also Turkish roots are said to be the origin of the four-legged friend. In former times, they were also known as Turco Andaluz (Andalusian Turk). The reason for this is that they probably came to the country together with Merino sheep from Hungary. Since Hungary was occupied by the Turks at the time, this name was created. Ancestors of the Spanish Water Dog are probably the Hungarian Puli, the Portuguese Water Dog and the Barbet from France. The breed was used as a working dog in different areas: they drove herds of cattle together in the mountains of Andalusia. On the coast they proved their excellent swimming skills when hauling in fishing nets. The strong animals even towed small boats into the harbours. The targeted Spanish water dog breeding is still very young, however: In their homeland they have only been recognised as a breed of its own since 1985, the international dog association FCI have been in charge of them since 1999.

What are the breed characteristics of the Spanish Water Dog?

Their fluffy coat is the trademark of the Spanish Water Dog. It covers their elongated body, which forms a rectangle. According to the breed standard there are black, white and brown Spanish Water Dogs. Two-coloured drawings are also permitted. Loyalty, alertness and intelligence are among the many positive characteristics of the breed.