Cantabrian Water Dog

Also called Perro de Agua del Cantábrico, Perro de Lanas, Merlucero

Bright, cheerful and eager to learn.

Size	Medium
Weight	12 to 17 kg (26 to 37 lb)males 15 to 17 kg, females 12 to 14 kg1 2
Height	40 to 45 cm (16 to 18 in)males 42 to 45 cm, females 40 to 43 cm1 2
Coat	Curly, waterproof double coat
Origin	Fishing ports along the coast of Cantabria, northern Spain.1 2

Rare breedShort profile

superb swimmer and diver

clever and quick to learn

cheerful and calm at home

Personality what they are like

Bright, cheerful and eager to learn. It is relaxed and easy-going when resting but switches into a busy, energetic worker as soon as there is a job to do, especially in the water.2

Coat and looks how to spot one

curly, waterproof double coat

A compact, rustic water dog covered all over in tight, dense curls of even length, head and ears included. A thick undercoat sits beneath, and both layers shed water well. It is noticeably smaller and lighter than the Spanish Water Dog.2 1

Colourswhite (always); nose, lips and eye rims black or brown2 1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Cantabrian Water Dog. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery 2 days
Bathevery month
HaircutClip or scissor to keep curls from mattingevery 6 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High when working; loves swimming, retrieving and water work.2 1

The story where it all began

Cantabrian fishermen kept these dogs aboard their boats for generations, and the type seems to share old roots with the French Barbet. It was long lumped in with the Spanish Water Dog before being accepted as its own breed in the early 2010s. A 2009 count found just over 1,200 dogs in Cantabria.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
On fishing boats it grabbed fish that fell overboard and carried ropes between boats and to the quay.1
2
It also guarded moored boats, hunted rats on board and could help rescue people from the water.2
3
It is considerably smaller and lighter than the better-known Spanish Water Dog, and genetically distinct from it.1
4
Together with the Barbet, it is described as one of the oldest water-dog populations in the world.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named after the Cantabrian Sea and the coastal region of Cantabria in northern Spain, where it was traditionally used by fishermen for tasks like retrieving fish and handling mooring lines.1

Name ideas for your new friend

MarinaCostaOlaNievePuertoLanaCantabriaRíaBrisaTiburónSaltyPuerto

A day in the life told by a Cantabrian Water Dog

I wake up to the smell of the sea and the sound of gulls. My human throws a stick into the waves, and I dive in without thinking. The water is cold and salty, but I love it. I fetch the stick, shake off, and we walk along the beach. Later, I help carry a basket of fish from the market, my favorite job. In the afternoon, I nap in the sun, dreaming of swimming. When the family sits outside, I curl at their feet, happy and tired. Every day is a splash and a wag.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Spanish Ministry of Environment (breed committee) / Spanish law: Accepted as a distinct native Spanish breed: Spanish Wikipedia dates the official cataloguing to 22 March 2011, English Wikipedia gives 2012, after a request from the Government of Cantabria.2
Real Sociedad Canina de España (RSCE): Not recognised by the Spanish kennel club, according to English Wikipedia.1
FCI: Not recognised.1

How many 1,216 dogs recorded in Cantabria (census)2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Cantabrian Water Dog, and at what times?

Adult dogs should be fed at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests daily feeding, and your vet can help set the best schedule for your dog.3 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Cantabrian Water Dog eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, onion, garlic, and raw meat or bones. Always check with your vet for specific dietary advice.4

How often should I bathe a Cantabrian Water Dog?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, but general guidance is at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, and always use a dog-safe shampoo.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Cantabrian Water Dog need brushing?

Brush every two days to keep the curly, waterproof coat free of mats. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends this frequency, and regular brushing helps maintain the coat's natural texture.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Cantabrian Water Dog's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and use a proper dog nail trimmer. Your vet or a groomer can show you how.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Cantabrian Water Dog need?

This breed has high activity needs, especially when working, and loves swimming, retrieving, and water work. Pet Wiki's starting plan includes daily walks and play, so plan for at least an hour of active exercise each day.2 1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Cantabrian Water Dog's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests daily brushing and weekly ear checks, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Cantabrian Water Dog live?

Lifespan varies by individual, and senior years usually start around age 8. Your vet can give you more specific guidance based on your dog's health and breed. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Cantabrian Water Dog good with children and other pets?

This breed is described as bright, cheerful, and easy-going, which often makes them good family dogs. However, individual temperament varies, so always supervise interactions with children and other pets, and ask a good breeder for advice.2

Can a Cantabrian Water Dog be left alone?

This varies by the individual dog's personality and training. As a bright and energetic breed, they may need company or stimulation if left alone for long periods. Consult a good breeder or your vet for tailored advice.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.