Wetterhoun
Overview
The Wetterhoun, also called the Frisian Water Dog, is a medium size dog usually used for hunting. This dog dates back 400 years to the Friesland region of the Netherlands. Thought to be a cross of Gypsy dogs with local Frisian dogs, these dogs have been used for centuries to hunt water animals like fitch and otters. They also are used as watchdogs and for retrieving ducks for famers and fishermen. Their numbers greatly diminished after World War II but have slowly been gaining popularity.
Temperament
Considered an ideal guard dog due to it's reserved temperament, Wetterhouns are typically not the aggressor and make an excellent family dog. They are a persistent breed but not particularly stubborn or disobedient, though due to their natural guarding abilities and strong will, it is best to begin training early. They do best with a task to perform and should kept in a larger home with space to roam and require a moderate amount of exercise.
They would not do well in an apartment setting. Due to their loyalty, they are tolerant of young children. Due to their breeding, they are well equipped as a gun dog, retrieving or as a watch dog. Considered a sensitive dog, it is best they are not trained harshly.
Appearance
The Wetterhoun is a medium sized dog typically 21-23 inches tall and weighing 33 to 44 pounds. Bred with a thick, curly coat over most their body with shorter hair on their legs and head.
Their coat is water repellant and thought of having a greasy feeling. Most commonly they have a black and white coat, they can also various other colors including liver and white, solid liver or solid black. Their ears are set low and hang flat against the head. They will have a tail that curls tightly over their back and a grim expression on their face because of the shape of their eyes.
Lifespan and Health
The average life span for a Wetterhoun is 12 to 13 years. They are a hardy breed and are not typically prone to severe health problems, but minor health problems are possible like ear infections and hip dysplasia.
Shedding and Grooming
The Wetterhoun is a moderate shedder so it is best to brush their coat a couple times a week, but otherwise require minimal grooming. Performing the typical checks of the dogs nails, ears and eyes will keep them in good shape.
Breed Information
| Popularity: | # |
| Origin: | Netherlands |
| Breed Group: | Working Gun Dog (UKC) |
| Size: | Medium |
| Type: | Purebred |
| Life span: | 12-14 years |
| Temperament: | Quiet Reserved Stubborn |
| Height: | 21.5-23 inches (55-59 cm) |
| Weight: | 55-77 pounds (25-35 kg) |
| Colors: | Black Black & White Liver Liver & White Roan |
| Litter Size: | 53-7 puppies |
| Puppy Price: | Average $500 - $700 USD |
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Dog names
| Rank | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jack | Lola |
| 2 | Winston | Ginger |
| 3 | Louie | Mia |
| 4 | Bruno | Princess |
| 5 | Blue | Missie |
| 6 | Finn | Shelby |
| 7 | Simba | Phoebe |
| 8 | Apollo | Charlie |
| 9 | Boomer | Minnie |
| 10 | Rufus | Sydney |
| 11 | Koda | Cleo |
| 12 | Prince | Fiona |
| 13 | Bubba | Nina |
| 14 | Bruce | Heidi |
| 15 | Ranger | Gigi |