Wetterhoun

Also called Frisian Water Dog, Dutch Spaniel, Otterhoun

Recognised breedFCI group 8Short profile

From The Netherlands, in the province of Friesland.1 2

At a glance the quick version

Weight, male34 to 35 kg1 2

Weight, female25 to 28 kg1 2

Height, male59 cm1 2

Height, female55 cm1 2

Sizemedium

FCI gives about 34 kg for males and about 28 kg for females; Wikipedia gives 25-35 kg overall.

watchful yard guard

affectionate family companion

keen swimmer and hunter

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Coat and looks how to spot one

tight curly, oily water-resistant coat

A strong, solid water dog covered in firm, dense curls with a coarse, slightly oily feel that sheds water. The head and legs have short smooth hair, and the tail curls over the back.1 2

Coloursblackbrownblack and whitebrown and whitetickedroan1 2

Personality what they are like

An independent, strong-minded dog that is loving with its family and keeps a careful eye on its home. It is reserved with strangers at first but should never be fearful, and it responds best to calm, gentle training.1 2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A working hunting and water dog that enjoys regular exercise, swimming and retrieving.1 2

The story where it all began

The Wetterhoun has been known in Friesland for about 400 years, where it hunted otter and polecat and guarded farms. Crossing with the Stabyhoun and the war years left it close to disappearing, but enthusiasts began restoring it in 1938 and it was officially recognised in 1942.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

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Its name means 'water dog' in the Frisian language.2
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It was traditionally used to hunt otters, and even to pull small carts.1
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Its curly coat has a natural oiliness that helps it stay dry in water.2
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In the Netherlands it shares a breed society with the Stabyhoun, the Nederlandse Vereniging voor Stabij- en Wetterhounen.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name comes from the West Frisian 'Wetterhûn', meaning 'water dog', reflecting its traditional use as a waterfowl hunting dog in Friesland, Netherlands.2

Name ideas for your new friend

SjaakFennaBramLiesbethWimJokePieterAnoukKeesMaaikeDirkEls

A day in the life told by a Wetterhoun

This morning, I checked every corner of the yard before breakfast, just to be sure. My human said I have a 'serious' look, but I know I'm a softie. We went to the lake, and I dove right in, paddling with my webbed feet. I found a stick and brought it back, but then I decided to keep it for a bit. Later, I lay on the grass, drying off in the sun, keeping an eye on the house. When a stranger walked by, I gave a low woof, but my human said I was a good guard. At dinner, I sat quietly by the table, hoping for a treat. I love my family, even if I'm a bit stubborn sometimes.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 221, Group 8, Section 3 Water Dogs; standard dated 06.07.2023; officially recognised in the Netherlands in 1942.1
Dutch Kennel Club (Raad van Beheer): Recognised.2
UKC: Gun Dog Group.2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Wetterhoun. 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

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 Wetterhoun, and at what times?

Adult Wetterhoun should be fed at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests daily feeding, but exact times depend on your schedule; ask your vet for a routine that suits your dog.3 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Wetterhoun eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA; always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.4

How often should I bathe a Wetterhoun?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, but the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months, more often if your dog is outdoors a lot or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo to preserve its oily coat.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Wetterhoun need brushing?

Brush your Wetterhoun every two days according to Furry Diary's plan, to keep its tight curly coat free of mats. The ASPCA advises weekly brushing for short smooth coats, but this breed's curls need more frequent care.5 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Wetterhoun'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 (the pink part inside) to avoid pain and bleeding. Ask your vet or a groomer to show you if you're unsure.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Wetterhoun need?

This working water dog enjoys daily walks, play, swimming, and retrieving. Furry Diary's plan recommends daily exercise. Aim for at least 30, 60 minutes of activity each day, adjusting to your dog's energy level.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Wetterhoun's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth two to three times a week (daily is ideal) using dog toothpaste only. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, never push anything into the ear canal. Furry Diary's plan suggests ear checks every 7 days and teeth brushing every 2 days.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Wetterhoun live?

Lifespan varies by individual, and the provided information does not specify a range. For a reliable estimate, ask your breeder or veterinarian, who can give guidance based on the dog's health and lineage.

Is a Wetterhoun good with children and other pets?

Yes, the Wetterhoun is described as loving with its family and keeps a careful eye on its home. It is reserved with strangers but not fearful. With proper socialization, it can be good with children and other pets, but always supervise introductions.1 2

Can a Wetterhoun be left alone?

The provided information does not address being left alone. This independent breed may tolerate short periods, but every dog is different. Consult your breeder or a trainer for advice on alone time and preventing separation anxiety.

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.