What makes the Wetterhoun Unique?
The Wetterhoun is an all-weather, all-purpose dog that is a popular canine companion and farmhand in its native Holland. It is very demanding physically and it can also be very sensitive. Wetterhoun is intelligent and independent and sometimes has a mind of its own. It is brave, reliable and very watchful. These dogs learn quickly, but they are independent-minded enough to refuse your commands if you are not assertive in a calm manner at all time towards them.
Breed Groups
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Is the Wetterhoun Right For You?
The Wetterhoun is not a suitable dog for beginners. It is an all-weather, all-purpose dog that is a popular canine companion. It is demanding of itself and can be sensitive at times. It is intelligent and independent. They can learn quickly. Do not allow this dog to take over the house. Its guarding instinct is still sharp, so training from an early age is imperative.
The Wetterhoun is a good-natured and friendly dog. It is good with children in the family. This breed makes a good guard dog. Family and friends will get a hearty welcome. It will accept other dogs and pets with no problem.
In 5 Words
- Brave
- Independent
- Intelligent
- Reliable
- Sensitive
Characteristics
Learn About the Wetterhoun
Description
General Description
The Wetterhoun has a coarse, thick, curly hair that covers the entire body except the head and legs, which have shorter hair. The coat is oily and must not be wooly. Coat colors include: liver and white, black and white, solid liver or solid black. The body is somewhat square in appearance. It has a large, strong head. The eyes are prominent and alert. They have a chest that is very broad, keeping the forelegs apart. The hocks are closer to the ground than other water dogs. The feet are rounded and quite large, with pronounced, thick pads. The tail is tightly curled over its back when the dog is alert.
Size
The Wetterhoun is a medium sized dog between 53 to 58 centimeters (21 to 23 inches) at the withers. They weigh between 15 to 20 kilos, (33 to 44 pounds).
Coat
Their fur is thick, and curly that covers the entire body except the head and legs, where the hair is soft, water repellent layer is described as a greasy feel. Coat colors include: liver and white, black and white, solid liver or solid black. The texture of the layer should not be woolly, as such, no skin resist water.
Short History of the Wetterhoun
Wetterhoun is Dutch for “water dog.” Developed by the efficient breeders of the Dutch province and traditionally used as a hunting dog for hunting small mammals and waterfow of Friesland in Netherlands. This rare breed is seldom seen outside its native land. It was most likely descended from the Old Water Dog, a breed that contributed to a number of modern-day spaniel types but is now extinct. The Wetterhoun was developed at the same time as the Stabyhoun. After otters became more manageable in the northern parts of the Netherlands, the breed was used to hunt small land mammals such as polecats, and to guard farms. The Wetterhoun is a rugged, well-built and effective gundog capable of flushing and retrieving on both land and water. He usually hunts singly and hunters attest that he is fearless enough to go face to face with polecats and wildcats as if they do not bite at all.
Temperament
Wetterhoun dogs are traditionally used as a hunting dog for hunting small mammals and waterfow. They are also excellent watch dogs, but never aggressive, which makes an excellent family dog.
Although described as “strong-willed” the Wetterhoun never intentionally stubborn or disobedient. These breed is sensitive and should not be treated harshly or trained. A consistent but kind approach is absolutely essential. Do not allow this dog to take over the house.
Caring for Your Wetterhoun
General Health
Wetterhoun has no health issue.
Care
The Wetterhoun is not recommended for apartment life. The Wetterhoun can live outdoors in a kennel as long as it gets adequate exercise and contact with its humans. This water dog requires little grooming. It also needs lots of exercise.
Grooming & Bathing
The Wetterhoun dog requires little grooming. Comb and brush occasionally. Check that the ears are clean and infection free.
Exercise & Training
The Wetterhoun needs lots of exercise, which includes a daily, long, brisk walk. The ideal situation for this dog is to have a large piece of land that it can run around on freely…and which it will protect vigorously. They likes to swim.
Wetterhoun Picture Gallery
