As with many breeds, the origin of the Spanish Water Dog is not clearly known. By 1100AD, a woolly coated dog existed throughout the Iberian Peninsula, and it is believed that the Spanish Water Dog is a descendant of this dog.

It has been suggested that the woolly coated dog was brought to the Iberian Peninsula by the Moors from Northern Africa between 710-1036. Others suggest that the barbarians who invaded Europe after the fall of the Roman Empire may have brought the woolly coated dogs. It is not necessary to know the exact origin of the breed to respect and adore the breed. The Spanish Water Dogs seem to excel at everything they do-they're wonderful retrievers, herders as well as companions. The numbers of these dogs are very limited in the United States.

Males should be 17-19 inches tall and weigh around 50 pounds. Females should be 15-18 inches tall and weigh between 30-40 pounds. Their coats can be brown (all shades), black and white. Both solid color and 2 color coats are permitted, but the second color must be white. Their coats are very woolly, and may form natural cords (such as the Komondor). The Spanish Water Dog is a non shedding breed, and requires very little grooming. Their coats shouldn't be combed or brushed at all, but will occasionally need clipped. The dog should also be left to "drip dry" after bathing-to allow the cords to properly form in the coat.

Health concerns in the breed include hip dysplasia, umbilical hernias, and glaucoma. These problems are rare in the breed, but they would be a concern to any potential buyers. Due to the Spanish Water Dog being such a rare breed in the United States, finding one may be quite difficult. Even if you cannot find a breeder close to you, contact them anyway- usually breeders will know of other reputable breeders that they can recommend.