Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog is described by the AKC as Upbeat, Playful but also work-oriented, Very Active, a member of the Herding Group, originally from Spain.
Last updated: October 2026 · 6 sources · see sources
| Height | 17.5-19.75 inches (male), 15.75-18 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 40-49 pounds (male), 31-40 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Upbeat / Playful But Also Work-Oriented / Very Active [1] |
| AKC group | Herding Group [1] |
| Origin | Spain [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 167 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Spanish Water Dogs benefit from a good run at least once a day. Once they have reached full maturity and the bone growth plates are closed, they have the capacity for lengthy, strenuous exercise and make great companions for activities such as running, hiking, or snow-shoeing. With their moderate size and natural athleticism, they enjoy being active, but they also have a good "off switch" for more settled time at home. [1]
Grooming
The most important basic guidelines for a properly groomed Spanish Water Dog are that the coat is never to be brushed, and it should be the same length all over. Frequency of clipping is up to the owner's preference for the length of hair on their dog, with some owners choosing to let it grow for many months to form cords. While the breed is typically described as having a low-maintenance coat, the cording process does take ongoing attention and some expertise. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Responsible breeders will screen their stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia and eye anomalies. As with all breeds, the Spanish Water Dog's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, ideally every day, using a toothpaste formulated for dogs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
| Full professional grooming, per visit | $40–$150 | [6] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Spanish Water Dog in 2015. [1]
- It ranked No. 167 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “SWD, The Turkish Dog.” [1]
- The AKC lists Spain as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 4/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Low-maintenance seekers: AKC rates grooming needs 4/5
Common questions
How long do Spanish Water Dogs live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
How big does a Spanish Water Dog get?
AKC breed information lists height 17.5-19.75 inches (male), 15.75-18 inches (female) and weight 40-49 pounds (male), 31-40 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Spanish Water Dog?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Spanish Water Dog, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.