No doubt, their wavy or curly coats and distinguished looks alone can make a person fall in love with Spanish Water Dogs (SWD). But as we know, as prospective pet owners, choosing the right pet necessitates considering a multitude of factors. One significant question that often arises is – do these adorable bundles of fluff shed a lot? The answer is somewhat nuanced and resides in understanding their unique coats and grooming requirements.
What you may not know, is that Spanish Water Dogs have what is referred to as ‘hair’ rather than ‘fur.’ Generally, dogs with hair, like humans, lose it gradually, unlike those with fur who go through intense shedding periods. This feature positions Spanish Water Dogs among those breeds that shed minimally. Yet, this factor brings about unique grooming requirements which we’ll be discussing in the upcoming passages.
The Spanish Water Dog’s coat is their distinguishing characteristic. Their woolly and curly texture makes them appear like a cute, cotton-like living toy. We owe this characteristic to their ancestors who were robust working dogs, herding livestock, and even fetching ropes and nets for their fishermen companions. These diligent animals needed a coat that was almost water-repellent, and that could shield them from the Spanish sun without triggering overheating– and voila! Spanish Water Dogs evolved with just the right kind of hair.
Interestingly, the hair of the SWD will naturally form into cords or dreadlocks when they mature. Spanish Water Dogs possess single coats, which entail that they lack an undercoat. Dogs with double coats – a soft undercoat beneath a tougher top coat – undergo seasonal shedding. Single-coated breeds like the SWD, however, skip this shedding, resulting in significantly less hair spread around your home.
Here’s a catch though: just because Spanish Water Dogs are low shedders does not mean they are maintenance-free. Owning a SWD can be a whole new adventure when it comes to grooming. The breed’s grooming needs are quite distinctive and, if ignored, can lead to myriad skin issues for your pet.
Since their hair forms cords, cutting or shaving the hair is a strict no-no, except once per year as per tradition. This trimming helps in rejuvenating the coat. But it should ideally be done by a professional to avoid causing discomfort to the dog. Regular brushing which is mandatory for most dogs is also ill-advised for Spanish Water Dogs, as it could lead to damaging their unique cords.
Cleaning SWDs can also be an interesting task. When you bathe them, it’s critical to let their coats dry naturally. Blow drying, for example, can alter the texture of their hair and even lead to significant damage.
Then there’s the factor of your SWD rolling in the mud, which is exceptionally probable considering their lively and energetic nature. To clean them in this case, let the mud dry completely, and it will chiefly fall off naturally from their curly locks. Any remaining dirt can easily be removed by dusting it off using your fingers.
What about the dreaded ‘dog smell’, you may ask. Spanish Water Dogs are notably less odorous as some other breeds – another perk of owning them. As long as they are kept clean with proper grooming, you shouldn’t have any issues.
Does these eccentricities in grooming require more effort? Yes. But they also mean fewer allergies. Thanks to their low shedding, Spanish Water Dogs are considered hypoallergenic. Although no breed is 100% hypoallergenic, these curly companions are less likely to trigger allergies, thus making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
Additionally, their minimal shedding and hypoallergenic properties make them fantastic indoor pets. But, remember, these dogs are active and dynamo, requiring a good deal of exercise and intellectual stimulation. They’ll be happiest romping around in a yard or playing fetch on a regular basis.
In conclusion, Spanish Water Dogs are indeed low shedders; however, their grooming is a unique affair and not negotiable. But if you’re ready to manage their curly locks – and they certainly are worth it – you’ll find yourself with an energetic, devoted, and less allergy-inducing companion on your hands. Fondly known as the “dog with a human brain,” the Spanish Water Dog can be your water-loving, ball-fetching, agile, and intelligent partner, who will definitely make your life more lively and adventurous. Experiencing hair tumbleweeds rolling around your house, though? Not so much.
