Characteristics
Large
up to 59 cm
up to 32 kg
10–12 years old
Retrievers, spaniels and water dogs
Brief information
Character
Another name for the breed is the Dutch Water Dog. This is a working breed, loved and revered in their homeland, in the Netherlands. The ancestors of the modern Wetterhun have long lived in the north of the country in the Frisian Lakes region and were used to hunt otters and ferrets, as well as to protect farmlands. Their dense and curly coat almost did not get wet and dried quickly, a strong body and developed muscles made it possible to swim and run quickly, moreover, these animals were distinguished by an instant reaction and involvement in business. The dogs were not aggressive, they became attached to the family, but they were wary of other people.
Modern Wetterhoons have inherited all the best qualities of their ancestors. This breed was on the verge of extinction after the Second World War, but after a few years, professional dog breeders began a long work to restore the Wetterhun. Now he not only serves a person, but is also his companion, living in houses and participating in sports and game exhibitions.
Representatives of this breed are well trained: they quickly memorize new commands and are happy to practice what they have already learned if the trainer is patient and tactful enough. These dogs do not tolerate violence, they are used to responding to rudeness with rudeness.
Wetterhoons have long been family dogs. Due to their gentle nature, they get along well with households, even with small children. However, care must be taken that the latter do not torment them, as these dogs are very patient and are not able to offend the child. The Dutch Water Dog treats other pets calmly, even indifferently. Most of the time she doesn’t need company. Unfamiliar animals will be driven away by barking.
Wetterhun takes a long time to get used to new pets, if before that he was always the only dog. However, much depends on the nature of a particular animal, and this should be taken into account: it will not be superfluous to ask the breeder about the nature of the puppy’s parents before purchasing.
Care
Grooming for the Wetterhoon depends on its coat type. Now there are more and more dogs with voluminous and stuffed hair (like a poodle), which looks more advantageous at shows. It requires more frequent combing and washing, otherwise it falls into tangles that are very difficult to comb. On average, Wetterhuns have a thick, rough, curly coat that is not prone to shedding. It needs to be washed a couple of times a month and combed after each contact with water. It is also important at least once a month to trim the claw pet.
Conditions of detention
Vetterhuns need a large space where they could move freely. For this reason, they cannot be kept on a chain, in an aviary and a small apartment. You can walk representatives of the breed only on a leash, since they are prone to pursue cats and other street animals. Walks should be long and active.
