Wetterhoun
History
The Wetterhoun, or Frisian Water Dog, is a traditional breed from Friesland in the Netherlands. The breed is probably over 400 years old. Its job was to protect the home, hunt for polecats and otters, and retrieve waterfowl. It is a rare breed, with an estimated world population of around 1000.
During the Second World War, many traditional dog breeds of the Netherlands became severely reduced in numbers, leading to the formation of breed clubs to ensure the survival of unique breeds. In 2022, the Nederlandse Vereniging voor Stabij- en Wetterhounen (NVSW) celebrated 75 years of protecting the two rare dog breeds, the Stabyhoun and the Wetterhoun. Their careful breeding programmes ensure that the coeffient of inbreeding is minimised and the health of the offspring is maintained.
Characteristics
The Wetterhoun has a thick curly coat over its body, except for the head, ears, and legs. The coat here is a lot smoother. This curly, somewhat ‘greasy’ coat protects the dog from all outdoor conditions and is water repellent. It is a dog that can withstand harsh weather and cope with thick, reedy borders, dense undergrowth, and even bramble bushes with ease.
The coat colour is solid black, solid brown, black with white, or brown with white. There may be ticking or roan within the white. The ears are low-set and hang flat to the head, and the tail curls tightly over the back.
Wetthouns are excellent gundogs, both on land and in water. They are not pointing dogs, but they are good retrievers, and in particular, excellent and very dedicated trackers. They are strong-willed but not stubborn, and they have to finish what they have started. The Wetterhoun is a natural watch dog and is very intelligent, so they need consistent and structured training from an early age. They are not aggressive and make great family dogs.
They are a dog that loves to be outside, so large gardens or outdoor spaces are ideal for them. Wetterhouns are watchful, but certainly not barky dogs. If they bark, there is usually a good reason. They can be reserved with strangers but are not at all nervous.
The Wetterhoun is an ideal pet; they prefer their owner to be around, so they are not a suitable kennel dog.
Health
The Wetterhoun is a healthy breed. Prior to breeding, all dogs are subjected to a full inventory of measurements and a formal assessment by judges approved by the NVSW. This is to ensure conformity with the breed standard and the continued health of the breed. All breeding dogs must be tested for Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Syndrome (SCID). A carrier may breed with a dog that is clear, but two carriers must not breed together. The Breeding Committee of the NVSW provides comprehensive advice.
Mandatory Health Tests
Recommended Health Tests
More Information
Historical Average Puppy Prices
| Year | 2023 |
|---|---|
| Price (£) | 1500 |
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