How big does a Spanish Water Dog get?

Adult Spanish Water Dogs typically weigh 17–22 kg and stand 41–51 cm at the shoulder.

How long do Spanish Water Dogs live?

A Spanish Water Dog usually lives 12–15 years.

What is a Spanish Water Dog's temperament?

Spanish Water Dogs are typically Trainable, Diligent, Affectionate, Loyal, Athletic, Intelligent.

Herding

Spanish Water Dog

A Spanish Water Dog needs about 11,500 steps a day. An active breed that requires 60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise.

Energy Level: High
Weight: 17–22 kg
Height Range: 41–51 cm
Life Span: 12–15 years

Trainable
Diligent
Affectionate
Loyal
Athletic
Intelligent

Daily goal, in context

Generic target10,000 steps

Spanish Water Doghealthy adult11,500 steps

Herding average12,200 steps

Your Spanish Water Dogexact number in 30 s

Dog steps are shorter than yours — 11,500 steps for this breed is about 55 minutes of walking a day, split over 2 outings. Your own dog's goal is personalised.

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Exercise by Age

Puppy (under 1 year)
5 min per month of age, twice a day
Limit exercise to 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily. Avoid high-impact activities to protect growing joints.
Adult (1-10 years)
11,500 steps
Full daily goal applies. Mix walks with play, training and mental stimulation.
Senior (10+ years)
8,000–9,200 steps
Reduce intensity by 20-30%. Shorter, more frequent walks. Watch for signs of fatigue or joint stiffness.

Exercise Needs

Couch companionHighWorking athlete

An active breed that requires 60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise.

About the Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog is a medium-sized breed of dog that was originally bred in Spain for herding and guarding livestock. They are intelligent, energetic, and hardworking, and make excellent working dogs.

Facts about the Spanish Water Dog

Exercise
Herding breeds need 2+ hours daily including mental challenges — puzzle toys or obedience training are non-negotiable.
AKC
Behavior
Many herding breeds nip at heels as instinct — gently socialize around small children to redirect the drive.
VCA
Health
Many herding breeds carry the MDR1 gene — ask your vet about drug sensitivities before any surgery or dewormer.
VCA
Training
Herding breeds learn commands remarkably fast — advanced tricks, agility, and obedience courses let them thrive.
AKC
Did You Know
Border Collies can learn over 200 human words with consistent training — the record-holder knows over 1,000.
AKC

Frequently asked questions

How much exercise does a Spanish Water Dog need?: A Spanish Water Dog needs about 11,500 steps a day. An active breed that requires 60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise.
How big does a Spanish Water Dog get?: Adult Spanish Water Dogs typically weigh 17–22 kg and stand 41–51 cm at the shoulder.
How long do Spanish Water Dogs live?: A Spanish Water Dog usually lives 12–15 years.
What is a Spanish Water Dog's temperament?: Spanish Water Dogs are typically Trainable, Diligent, Affectionate, Loyal, Athletic, Intelligent.

Calculate your Spanish Water Dog's exact daily goal

Pawmi uses peer-reviewed breed science to create a personalized plan based on your dog's breed, age, weight and health conditions.

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