Overview
The Perro de Agua Cantábrico is a medium-small water dog from Cantabria on Spain's Atlantic coast, kept by fishermen to retrieve gear, swim lines ashore and guard the boat in harbour. It has a dense, woolly, curled coat in white, black, brown or combinations, a compact body and a cheerful, alert expression. Spain recognises it; almost nowhere else does.
Water dogs of this family, which includes the Spanish and Portuguese Water Dogs, are intelligent, lively and strongly bonded to their people. They learn fast, love a job and will swim in anything. Expect a bouncy, sociable dog with a coat that holds half the pond on the way home.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a quarter a day in two walks suits most adults, with retrieving or swimming built in. They are energetic but not frantic and settle well after a walk with content.
Water is the obvious outlet. A floating toy in safe, clean water does more for this dog than a longer walk on the lead.
On the walk
- Water: The dog will go in. Check for currents, blue-green algae in summer and steep banks, and carry a towel for the aftermath.
- Recall: Good. Water dogs were bred to work with a handler and check in. Ducks and other swimming dogs are the main distraction.
- Coat: The curls collect burrs, seeds, mud and water. Avoid brambles and expect to towel for a while at the door.
- Other dogs: Sociable and playful. Suits group walks with dogs that enjoy a game.
Tips for professional walkers
- Bring a floating toy and a towel; both will be used.
- Dry inside the ears after swimming; a woolly ear canal holds damp.
- Keep an eye on the coat for matting; mention knots to the owner rather than tugging at them.
- In winter, swim early in the walk so the dog dries off on the way back.
What to ask the owner
- Where is the dog allowed to swim, and are there waters the owner wants it kept out of?
- What is the grooming routine, and should swimming be skipped before an appointment?
- Any ear infections or skin problems after wet walks?