History
Athough there are those who consider the SWD as a relatively recent breed, in fact it can trace its history back several hundred years, certainly as far back as the Middle Ages and possibly Roman Times.  There are different theories as to its origin but the most accepted is that it was introduced by the Turks who traded in sheep and used them as sheepdogs.  In Spain it is often called the 'Andalucian Turk'.

It is also believed that there are strong genetic links wth the French Barbet, Spaniels, The Poodle and the Portuguese Water Dog, and that the SWD is the ancestor of the Irish Water Spaniel.  Believably this ancient Spanish Dog has played a significant role in the development of the world's Spaniels.  The French Spaniels in particular have been tied to this breed, and it is commonly said that Napolean during the invasion of Spain, was much enamoured of these kinky little workhorses, and took examples back home.   

Berni at her birthplace 

Benaocaz, Southern Spain

Until very recently the SWD was kept in relative isolation in rural areas of Spain, away from cross-beeding and inter-breeding with other dogs.  The breed was developed in three separate areas of Spain, giving rise to three types.  The types were used for a variety of tasks, being called upon to work whenever a dog was required.  They were used as sheepdogs to move flocks of sheep and goats from one pasture to another.  They accompanied fisherman in their boats and would retrieve their equipment from the water, bring in stray fish that had escaped from the nets, carry a tow rope to shore for the boat to be pulled in, and guard the fisherman's catch once it was landed.  These dogs would also be taken hunting and would be used as retrievers, particularly in the water.  This breed is particularly noted for its ability to dive underwater and remain at depth for some time.  A depth of six metres has been recorded.

The Revival of the Breed
In 1975, two enthusiasts, Antonio Garcia Perez and Santiago Montesinos travelled around the countryside of Southern Spain, through the smallest villages and farms of the mountainous region of Andalucia and bought and borrowed a number of dogs that they felt fitted the type they were looking for to establish a breeding programme.

Spanish Water Dog Stand

Discover Dogs - Crufts

In 1980 The Spanish Water Dog Club (Spain) was formed in order to promote the breed and help get it recognised in its own country.  Then in 1985, after a lot of hard work and displaying the breed at various venues and dog shows, The Spanish Kennel Club accpeted the breed and gave it official status.  The Spanish Water Dog is now becoming well established in many countries including Germany, Finland, Sweden, Great Britain and the United States.    

In The Water
As their middle name suggests , these dogs excel in the water and will dive for a sunken object if necessary.  They will want to retrieve any dummy or bird that is out of reach of another dog, and will swim time and time again, their webbed feet, muscular body and action in the water make them powerful swimmers for their size.


Pemontell Sicomoro (Miguel)


Niara, Berni & daughter Bubble


Behison in action


Coralina diving into our dam

Herding
Spanish Herdsman have said that these dogs can carry out herding and control of animals with surprising efficiency even though they receive no training.  They work with one herdsman obeying his commands either vocal or signals but they also work on their own initiative, being constantly vigilant and regrouping the flock.  With training, Spanish Water Dogs will demonstrate great ability, and successfully drive herds of headstrong animals such as goats and cattle.  


Behison herding our Angora Goats

Hunting
Retrieving comes naturally to this breed and many of the youngsters are not happy unless carrying something in their mouths.  Often they will pick up the nearest object available to greet owners and friends.
The breed is very quick to learn and basic training has to be balanced while giving the dogs a challenge.  Sometimes it is easy to forget how young a dog is because their mind is always on their work.  The breed tends to be independant and thinks it knows better than its owner.  Nevertheless, harsh handling is not successful in training, due to their sensitive nature with people.  They are not gushy as a breed, they all concentrate 100% on the task before them.  A balanced approach is necessary.  This breed loves to hunt, making use of air and ground scent, some have bee seen to point, whereas others show acknowledgement of game.  


Pemontell Hermosa (Buffy)

When Spanish Water Dogs first took part in demonstrations in the UK, the smiles and laughter as everyone saw these sheep-like dogs soon gave way to silence when they saw their speed and agility.  People commented how impressed they were with the natural working ability of the dogs.