SPANISH WATER DOG

Its origin is one of the oldest in the canine world. It is said that it reach Spain by the hand of the Arabs, towards the year 711, maybe that is why it was known as the “Turkish” during a long time, especially in Andalucía, area where they are most abundant. It is also very popular in Asturias and Cantabria, where it is called the “wool dog”, in Extremadura it is the “churro” or more affectionately “churrito” and in the Basque country it is “txo”. It can be said that, as a working dog, it is polyvalent, as a shepherd, a hunter or help for the fisherman in the sea.

PHYSICAL TRAITS of the SPANISH WATER DOG
This rustic dog, with a short and hoppy stride, an erect and elegant stance has a height of 41 a 50 cm and a weigh of 16 to 20 kg, in the males, the females are 4 cm shorter and have a weigh corresponding to their height. The fur is curly and woolly; it can be uniform white, chestnut or black in different intensities and also bicolor, white and black or white and brown. The nose is somewhat darker, but also in harmony with the color of the fur, as well as the eyes, which also are in tune with the color of the coat. The ears, triangular shaped and medium implanted, are long and droopy.

TEMPERAMENT AND ADAPTATION of the SPANISH WATER DOG
Those who have a Spanish water dog say that there is no better partner, because it is docile, loyal, cheerful, hard working and courageous. It has an enormous learning ability and a tendency to adapt well to any environment. It also stands out for its excellent memory and ability to retrieve things from the most inaccessible places. It is affectionate to the family; it adores children and coexists well with other animals.

EXERCISE AND CARE required for a SPANISH WATER DOG
Its fur should be trimmed once a year, if not long dreadlocks, impossible to untangle, will form. It loves to run around and jump freely, which should be considered if there is no yard available. This breed’s diffusion is concentrated particularly in the meridional area and the Cantabria shore, it can be also found in the rest of Spain, but in fewer numbers.