Fresian Water Dog
Breed Group: sporting
"Splish and splash are my two favorite sounds!"
Breed Profile
Bred for hunting purposes, Fresian Water Dogs, also known as Wetterhouns are rugged, working dogs. They love the water and love their families. They are instinctively protective of those they care about and make good watch dogs.
Behavior
Fresian Water Dogs are the strong, quiet type. They can be reserved with strangers, always keeping a watchful eye on their family. They do have a stubborn streak, which might make you ask them to do things more than once. They understand you; they just don’t feel like listening all the time. Calm, firm coaxing seems to do the trick with these independent dogs. They also respond best to someone who exudes leadership qualities – or, in dog terms, someone who is a pack leader.
Coat
Fresian Water Dogs have a water-resistant coat, which some say is a bit oily to the touch. These medium-sized dogs require a brushing once or twice per week to keep their coat looking healthy. Be sure to check for ear infections regularly – especially if they live outdoors full-time.
Lifestyle
Fresian Water Dogs are farm dogs. And, no surprise here, they do best in rural settings, like farms. Many Fresian Water Dogs even live outdoors and, because of their coat, can do so year-round. This doesn’t mean, however, that these dogs don’t need human attention. They do. They love their families and do well with older children who know how to properly play with a dog... in other words, children who won’t pull on a dog’s ears. Fresian Water Dogs enjoy the company of other dogs and animals. They are instinctively protective of their family and make a great watchdog.
Activity
These dogs have natural swimming abilities and will take any opportunity to jump in the water. Pools. Lakes. Streams. Fresian Water Dogs love them all. If swimming is not in the cards, a long run will do the job. To keep this breed content, they need upwards of two hours of exercise per day.
Characteristics
Space Needs
Activity Needs
Intelligence
Playfulness
Grooming Needs
Trainability
Watch Ability
Dog-friendliness
Child-friendliness
About the Fresian Water Dog
Fresian Water Dogs were bred to take care of the otters eating what would have been the fisherman’s catch for the day, thus making them rugged, working dogs. Suspicious of strangers and loving toward their families, these dogs make great watchdogs. They are happy when they have plenty of acreage to roam and protect, and they are even happier when there's water involved.
Breed information reviewed by the Puppies.com editorial team. Helping families find their perfect puppy since 2003.
Fresian Water Dog Quick Facts
50–75 lbs
Adult Weight
21–23"
Adult Height