Description

The coarse, thick, curly hair of the Wetterhoun covers the entire body except the head and legs, which has shorter hair. The coat is oily and must not be woolly. Coat colors include: liver & white, black & white, solid liver or solid black. The body is somewhat square in appearance. It has a large strong head. The eyes are prominent and alert. The chest is very broad, keeping the forelegs apart. The hocks are closer to the ground than other water dogs. The feet are rounded and quite large, with pronounced thick pads. The tail is tightly, curled over its back when the dog is alert.

Origin

Wetterhoun is Dutch for "water dog." Developed by the efficient breeders of the Dutch province of Friesland at least 400 years ago, this rare breed is seldom seen outside its native land. It was most likely descended from the Old Water Dog, a breed that contributed to a number of modern-day spaniel types but is now extinct. The Wetterhoun was developed at the same time as the Stabyhoun. Wetterhoun specialize in locating and killing otters (the fisherman's competitors for fish). After otters became more manageable in the northern parts of the Netherlands, the breed was used to hunt small land mammals such as polecats, and to guard farms. The Wetterhoun is a rugged, well-built, and effective gun dog capable of flushing and retrieving on both land and water. He usually hunts singly and hunters attest that he is fearless enough to go face to face with polecats and wildcats as if they do not bite at all.

Temperament

The Wetterhoun is not a suitable dog for beginners. This rugged and soundly built working water dog is an unsinkable capable canine. An all-weather all-purpose dog that is a popular canine companion and farmhand in its native of Holland. Physically very demanding of itself and can be sensitive. Intelligent and somewhat independent, often with a mind of its own. It is brave, reliable and very watchful. These dogs are intelligent and learn quickly, but they are independent-minded enough to refuse your commands. A consistent but kind approach is absolutely essential. It is strong-willed and its guarding instinct is still sharp, so training from an early age is imperative. Depending upon the individual dog, corrective action may be appropriate. For its own people, the Wetterhoun is a good-natured and friendly dog. They are good with children in the family, provided they treat him properly. It's another story with strangers. With strangers this dog is always cautious and ready to protect your home. Family and friends on the other hand, will get a hearty welcome. It will accept other dogs and pets with no problem.

Height

Height: 21-23 inches (53-58 cm.)

Weight

Weight: 33-44 pounds (15-20 kg.)

Known Health Problems

*

Conditions for Living

The Wetterhoun are not recommended for apartment life. They will be very distressed in an apartment in a busy urban area because these dogs are not suited to such a life. They are rarely seen outside the country setting. Wetterhoun can live outdoors in a kennel as long as they get adequate exercise and contact with their humans. They will do well in cold climates as long as they have adequate shelter.

Exercise Requirments

brisk walk. The ideal situation for this dog is to have a large piece of land that it can run around in freely... and which it will protect vigorously. The Wetterhoun likes to swim.

Life Expectancy

About 12-13 years.

Grooming

This water dog requires little grooming. Comb and brush occasionally. Check that the ears are clean and infection free.

Group

Gun Dog