
The Cantabrian Water Dog is an ancient breed that originated in the Cantabrian Mountains of northern Spain. This breed has a rich history dating back to the 18th century.
They are a medium-sized dog with a muscular build and a distinctive double coat that sheds water easily. Their coat comes in various colors, including black, brown, and tan.
The Cantabrian Water Dog is an energetic breed that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, which can be a combination of walking, running, and playtime.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a great breed for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.
For more insights, see: How Much Exercise Do Border Collies Need
Breed Information
The Cantabrian Water Dog is a rare breed from Spain's northern coast.
This intelligent and versatile dog is originally bred for fishing and herding.
It has a unique heritage that sets it apart from other breeds.
The Cantabrian Water Dog has a curly, low-shedding coat.
It makes an ideal companion for those seeking a loyal and lively friend.
The breed's love for adventure is just as important as its affectionate nature.
Physical Characteristics

The Cantabrian Water Dog is a medium-sized breed with a strong, athletic build suited for swimming and agility, thanks to its muscular physique and webbed feet.
Its expressive eyes, set beneath alert ears, give the Cantabrian Water Dog a keen, intelligent look that's hard to ignore.
The Cantabrian Water Dog's coat is a distinguishing feature, with a curly, dense coat that's both practical and distinctive in its water-resistant properties.
This coat comes in a variety of colors, including black, brown, and white, and may feature solid or bicolor patterns.
The Cantabrian Water Dog's average height is between 17 and 20 inches at the withers for males, and between 16 and 18 inches for females.
They typically weigh between 16 and 23 kg for males and between 14 and 20 kg for females.
Their tails are typically left natural, contributing to a balanced, athletic physique that speaks to their origins as agile, hardworking companions.
The Cantabrian Water Dog's head is well-proportioned with a good length of muzzle, and their drop ears are neither too short, nor too long.
Their in-between length tail is carried high and slightly curved, adding to their overall athletic appearance.
The Cantabrian Water Dog's long and woolly coat is similar to a poodle's, and they come in a variety of colors including cream, fawn, brown and white, and black and white.
Temperament and Personality
The Cantabrian Water Dog is an intelligent breed that thinks for itself and reacts accordingly. This means they can be a bit independent, but also very responsive to their owners.
They have a soft mouth, perfect for gently collecting fish, and sharp eyes that can spot shoals of fish with ease. This makes them excellent hunting companions.
Cantabrian Water Dogs are generally easy-going and love being around people. They make great pets, as long as they get plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
However, their high prey drive means they might not be the best fit for households with cats or other small furry pets. Early socialization is key to helping them grow comfortable around new situations and people.
Here are some key traits to keep in mind when considering a Cantabrian Water Dog as a pet:
General Care
The Cantabrian Water Dog is a breed that thrives in regions with moderate climates, where they can access fresh air, exercise, and regular water interaction. This allows them to stay happy and healthy.
These dogs need a substantial area to run around and engage in physical activity. Ideally, a family that owns more than one dog or someone willing to share their time for extended exercise periods can be the perfect home.
They are adaptable to different climates, making them suitable for residents with apartments, but they prefer larger spaces like houses or cottages close to open areas where they can engage in regular exercise and play activities.
Suggestion: How Much Exercise Do Labrador Retrievers Need
In terms of living conditions, it's essential to provide a comfortable space for your Cantabrian Water Dog to live. Here are some key requirements:
- Space: A minimum of a 1/4 acre of land or a securely fenced area for exercise and play.
- Weather: Access to fresh air and moderate climates.
Feeding them a moderate-controlled portion without leaving any leftover can help keep their body conditions healthy.
Health and Issues
The Cantabrian Water Dog's health is a top priority, especially given their active nature. Regular deworming is a must to reduce the risk of preventable diseases.
As the breed's most prevalent disease is unknown, it's essential to take proactive measures to keep them healthy. This includes using effective parasite control methods.
Their active lifestyle means they require regular veterinary check-ups to ensure they stay in top condition.
Additional reading: Top Dog Types
Health
The Cantabrian Water Dog is an active breed that requires regular deworming to reduce the risk of preventable diseases.
As an energetic breed, Cantabrian Water Dogs need to be dewormed regularly to stay healthy.
Their active lifestyle makes them prone to parasites, so effective parasite control is a must.
Regular deworming and parasite control can go a long way in maintaining their overall health.
It's essential to take preventative measures to keep them healthy, rather than waiting for diseases to develop.
Issues

Exercise is crucial for Cantabrian Water Dogs, as they need a lot of physical activity to feel good and be less stressed.
Their high energy levels can make them challenging to manage, especially in situations with multiple variables like crowds, dogs running in different directions, and changing landscapes.
To keep your Cantabrian Water Dog happy and healthy, make sure to provide consistent and significant amounts of exercise every day.
Here are some key exercise considerations:
- Exercise Requirements: 30 minutes to 1 hour of physical activity per day is recommended.
- Energy Levels: Keep a close eye on your dog during activities to ensure their safety and well-being.
Adoption and Ownership
Finding a Cantabrian Water Dog can take time and patience, but reputable breeders who focus on health and lineage are often the best resource for obtaining a well-bred puppy.
The Spanish Water Dog Club of America can provide breeder referrals and additional resources for potential owners. Pet adoption platforms like Petfinder can also help in locating this breed, although availability may be limited due to the breed's scarcity.
Adoption is also an option, though it may require some extra effort to find a Cantabrian Water Dog or mix available through rescue groups or organizations specializing in rare or working breeds.
Adoption, Breeders
Finding a Cantabrian Water Dog can be a challenge due to their rarity. Reputable breeders who prioritize health and lineage are often the best resource for obtaining a well-bred puppy.
The Spanish Water Dog Club of America can provide breeder referrals and additional resources for potential owners. This can be a great starting point for your search.
Adoption is also an option, though availability may be limited due to the breed's scarcity. Occasionally, rescue groups and organizations specializing in rare or working breeds may have Cantabrian Water Dogs or mixes available.
Pet adoption platforms like Petfinder can also help in locating this breed.
Family Pet?
If you're considering a Cantabrian Water Dog as a family pet, it's essential to know that they can make excellent additions to active households. Their affectionate nature makes them a loving companion for all family members.
However, due to their high energy levels, they may be too enthusiastic for very young children, so supervised interactions are crucial. Their herding instincts might occasionally appear, so training is helpful in managing these tendencies.
Cantabrian Water Dogs usually get along well with other pets, especially if socialized from a young age. With the right environment and guidance, they adapt well to multi-pet households.
If you're willing to provide the necessary exercise and companionship, a Cantabrian Water Dog offers loyalty, affection, and endless playfulness.
A fresh viewpoint: Why Are Labrador Retrievers so Popular
General Information
The Cantabrian Water Dog is a rare breed from Spain's northern coast. They're known for their curly, low-shedding coat and love for adventure.
Originally bred for fishing and herding, this intelligent and versatile dog is both hardworking and affectionate. They thrive in regions with moderate climates, where they can access fresh air, exercise freely, and engage in regular water activities.
These dogs need a substantial area to run around and engage in physical activity. Ideally, a family that owns more than one dog or someone willing to share their time for extended exercise periods can be the perfect home.
Their adaptability to different climates makes them suitable for residents with apartments, but they prefer larger spaces like houses or cottages close to open areas where they can exercise and play freely.
A moderate-controlled portion of food is recommended, as these dogs are not known for eating much compared to smaller breeds. This can help maintain a healthier body condition.
Featured Images: pexels.com