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Wetterhoun Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Wetterhoun so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Gun Dog
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OriginNetherlands flagNetherlands
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Wetterhoun known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Dutch SpanielOtterhounFrisian Water Dog
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Wetterhoun? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Wetterhoun Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Wetterhoun? Learn how big the Wetterhoun breed typically grows.
Medium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Wetterhoun weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Wetterhoun breed.
55-77 pounds (25-35 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Wetterhoun?
66 pounds (30 kg)
Height
How tall is the Wetterhoun? Wetterhoun height:
21.5-23 inches (55-59 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Wetterhoun?
21.14 inches (57 cm)

Wetterhoun Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Wetterhoun puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Wetterhoun costs.
$500-$700
If you choose to purchase the Wetterhoun, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Wetterhoun for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Wetterhoun gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Wetterhoun? How many Wetterhoun are there in the world?
Average: The Wetterhoun is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs.

Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful.

Wetterhoun Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Wetterhoun? Discover the Wetterhoun's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Wetterhoun ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Wetterhoun? Learn about the Wetterhoun's trainability and response to training methods.
Wetterhoun dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Wetterhoun as a watchdog? Learn about the Wetterhoun's alertness and guarding instincts.
Wetterhoun dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Wetterhoun dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Wetterhoun protective of its territory? Learn about the Wetterhoun's guarding instincts and behavior.
Wetterhoun dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Wetterhoun can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Wetterhoun will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Wetterhoun Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Wetterhoun have? Learn about characteristic Wetterhoun temperament and behavior traits.
StubbornQuietReserved
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Wetterhoun sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Wetterhoun dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Wetterhoun a good family dog?
Average to High: Wetterhoun dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Dutch Spaniel need? Wetterhoun social needs:
Wetterhoun dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Wetterhoun to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Wetterhoun roam?
Wetterhoun dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Wetterhoun have high prey drive?
Wetterhoun dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Wetterhoun Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Wetterhoun bark a lot? Learn about typical Wetterhoun vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The Wetterhoun rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Wetterhoun? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Wetterhoun breed.
Wetterhouns are not the most playful dog breed. Sometimes they do like playing, but that's not their favorite activity.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Wetterhoun live in an apartment? Learn about the Wetterhoun's suitability for apartment living.
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Wetterhoun breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Wetterhoun indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Wetterhoun Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Wetterhoun to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Wetterhoun's flexibility to new situations.
Average: Wetterhoun dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Wetterhoun be left alone? Learn about the Wetterhoun's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Wetterhoun Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Wetterhoun biting potential? Learn about the Wetterhoun's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Wetterhoun has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Wetterhoun mouthy? Learn about the Wetterhoun's tendency to use mouth during play.
Wetterhoun dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Wetterhoun dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Wetterhoun bite? Learn about the Wetterhoun's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Wetterhoun bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Wetterhoun measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Wetterhoun is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Wetterhoun bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Wetterhoun bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Wetterhoun puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Wetterhoun, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Wetterhoun bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Wetterhoun can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Wetterhoun Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Wetterhoun live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Wetterhoun breed.
12-14 years
The average lifespan of Wetterhoun: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Wetterhoun handle different weather? Learn about the Wetterhoun's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Wetterhoun? Discover typical conditions affecting the Wetterhoun breed.
Wetterhouns tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Wetterhoun need vet visits? Learn about the Wetterhoun's veterinary care requirements.
Frequent
The Wetterhoun should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.

Wetterhoun Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Wetterhoun? Understand daily activity needs of the Wetterhoun breed.
Wetterhoun dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Wetterhoun need? How much exercise do Wetterhoun dogs require per day?

Do Wetterhoun dogs need a lot of exercises?

Wetterhoun dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Wetterhoun breed need?
Wetterhoun dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Wetterhoun Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Wetterhoun prone to weight gain? Learn about the Wetterhoun's obesity risks.
Average: The Wetterhoun has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Wetterhoun weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Wetterhoun need daily? Learn about the Wetterhoun's feeding requirements.
2.5 to 3.5 cups of a high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals.

Wetterhoun Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Wetterhoun hypoallergenic? Learn about the Wetterhoun's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Wetterhoun dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Wetterhoun come in? Discover all possible Wetterhoun color variations.
Black White LiverRoan
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Wetterhoun need? Learn about Wetterhoun coat maintenance requirements.
Effortless: The Wetterhoun requires minimal grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned sometimes to avoid infections. Wetterhoun is one of the best choices if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Highly recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Wetterhoun drool a lot? Learn about the Wetterhoun's drooling habits.
The Wetterhoun is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency. If you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, the Wetterhoun could be a good choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool less than others, just like the Wetterhoun.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Wetterhoun smell bad? Learn about the Wetterhoun's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Wetterhoun has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Wetterhoun have? Learn about the Wetterhoun's fur characteristics.
CurlyThickSmoothCoarse
Bathing Needs
How often does a Wetterhoun need baths? Learn about the Wetterhoun's bathing requirements.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Shedding Level
How much do Wetterhoun dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Dutch Spaniel? Do Wetterhoun dogs shed a lot?
Wetterhoun dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Wetterhoun Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Wetterhoun good with children? Learn about the Wetterhoun's behavior around kids of different ages.
Wetterhoun dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Wetterhoun get along with other pets? Discover the Wetterhoun's compatibility with other animals.
Wetterhoun dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Wetterhoun temperament with other people:
Wetterhoun dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Wetterhoun dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Wetterhoun breed live with a cat?
Wetterhoun dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Wetterhoun good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Wetterhoun dogs get along with other dogs?
Wetterhoun dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Wetterhoun breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Wetterhoun breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Wetterhoun dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Wetterhoun dogs good office canines? Do Wetterhoun dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Wetterhoun is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Wetterhoun dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Dutch Spaniel temperament with senior people? Are Wetterhoun dogs good for elderly owners?
Wetterhouns are usually recommended for elderly people.

Wetterhoun As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Wetterhoun be a service dog? Learn about the Wetterhoun's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Wetterhoun is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Wetterhoun good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Wetterhoun's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Wetterhoun is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Wetterhoun good at detection work? Learn about the Wetterhoun's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Wetterhoun is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Wetterhoun do search and rescue? Learn about the Wetterhoun's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Wetterhoun is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Wetterhoun good on boats? Learn about the Wetterhoun's maritime capabilities.

Yes

Wetterhoun breed usually likes being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, as a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Wetterhoun pull carts? Learn about the Wetterhoun's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Wetterhoun is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Wetterhoun used in military service? Learn about the Wetterhoun's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Wetterhoun Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Wetterhoun usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
3-7 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Wetterhoun pregnant? Learn about the Wetterhoun's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Wetterhoun: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Wetterhoun have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Wetterhoun Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Wetterhoun in? Learn about the Wetterhoun's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Wetterhoun in? Learn about the Wetterhoun's international classification.
Recognized by FCI in the Retrievers - Flushing Dogs - Water Dogs group, in the Water Dogs section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Wetterhoun? Learn about the Wetterhoun's official recognition.
American Canine RegistryAmerica's Pet RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleAmerican Canine Association, Inc.Continental Kennel ClubNational Kennel Club

Wetterhoun Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming Requirements: Effortless: The Wetterhoun requires minimal grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Wetterhoun is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Rating: Wetterhoun dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Child Compatibility: Wetterhoun dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Wetterhouns are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Wetterhoun dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Maritime Work Ability: Wetterhoun breed usually likes being on a boat.

    Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

    Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages.

Cons
  • Health Concerns: Wetterhouns tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Wetterhoun dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Wetterhoun breed.
  • Office Friendly: Wetterhoun is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Wetterhoun History

The Wetterhoun’s name translates to ‘water dog’ in Dutch, which suggests that the breed can trace its origins back to the Netherlands. The breed was created by the efficient breeders of the Dutch province named Friesland as early as the 1600s. Interestingly, the Friesian horse is also originated from this area.

According to experts, the breed is presumably descended from the now-extinct Old Water Dog, which had also contributed to the development of several Spaniel breeds throughout its existence. Later, yet still, in the early days of the breed’s development, the Fresian Water Dog was also included in the breeding mix. The Wetterhoun is thought to be created in the same period as the Stabyhoun was. Initially, the Wetterhoun’s purpose was to hunt down and kill otters stealing fish from the Dutch fishermen. That is the reason why the breed was known under the name Otterhound for a longer period of time. Thanks to the breed’s effectiveness, the otter population became more manageable in the Northern part of the Netherlands, thus later people gave the dogs other duties too.

Firstly, the breed was used to hunt small game on land including small mammals like polecats. Most members of hunter communities agreed on the fact, that the breed is fearless against any mammal game. Later the breed was introduced to the job of guarding property. The dogs were really well-esteemed in the guarding role, thanks to their even-temperament and predictable behavior against strangers. The Wetterhound was great at protecting the farmstead and livestock without posing any risk to the farmers’ families. As hunting practices became more fashionable in Europe, the breed was also trained to be a gundog, who can flush and retrieve game from both land and water easily.

The Wetterhoun population’s number faced a drastic decline during the Second World War, because of the neglect and the decreasing interest in hunting and thus, the declining number of hunters. The breed got to the brink of extinction by the end of the World War. Fortunately, thanks to the breeders’ and fanciers’ well-planned and overlooked breeding efforts, the Wetterhoun was revitalized. Despite the restoration, the breed is still considered to be a rare one, especially outside of its native land, the Netherlands. The Dutch Kennel Club recognized the Wetterhoun in 1943. However, the UKC (United Kennel Club) recognized it much later, in 2006. Because of the breed’s rarity, nowadays, breeders are still trying to preserve the dogs’ DNA while also maintaining and expanding the population, rather than cross-breed the Wetterhoun in order to develop new designer breeds. Today, the breed is mostly kept as family companions.

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