Libro Razas Españolas

Spanish Water Dog F.C.I. Standard Nº 336 / 03.09.1999 / GB Origin: Spain Date of Publication of the original valid standard: 03.09.1999 Utilization: Used as shepherd dog, hunting dog and assistant to the fisherman. Classification F.C.I.: Group 8 Retrievers - Flushing Dogs - Water Dogs. Section 3 Water Dogs. Without working trial. I. Brief historical summary The presence of this dog in the Iberian Peninsula is most ancient. His origin is the same like that of the old “Barbet”. His most dense population is in Andalusia where he is used as a shepherd dog, and where he has been known for centuries as the “Turkish dog”. His characteristics, most particularly the quality of his coat, are adapted to the variation of humidity and drought of the marshy regions, which qualifies him as a shepherd dog and as a helper to the hunters of waterfowl and fishermen in those regions. II. General Appearance Rustic dog, well proportioned (medium weight), dolichocephalic, of rather elongated harmonious shape and attractive appearance, of an athletic nature with well developed muscles owing to his regular exercise; the profile is rectilinear; his sight, hearing and scent are well developed. III. Important Proportions Length of body / size (height at withers) = 9 / 8. Depth of chest / size (height at withers) = 4 / 8. Length of muzzle / length of skull = 2 / 3. IV. Behaviour / Temperament Faithful, obedient, gay, hard working, watchful and well balanced. Learning ability is outstanding owing to his extraordinary mental grasp; he adapts to all situations and conditions. V. Head Strong, carried with elegance. CRANIAL REGION: Skull: Flat with only slightly marked occipital crest. Axes of skull and muzzle parallel. Stop: Facial-cranial depression gentle, only slightly marked. FACIAL REGION: Profile is rectilinear. Nose: Nostrils well defined. Nose is of the same colour or slightly darker than the darkest tone of the coat. Lips: Well fitting; labial corners well defined. Teeth: Well formed, white, with well developed canines. Eyes: Slightly oblique position, very expressive; of a hazel to chestnut colour, should harmonize with the colour of the coat. The conjunctiva is not apparent. Ears: Set at medium height, triangular and drooping. Las razas caninas españolas - Spanish canine breeds 298