Wetterhoun Dog Breed

Below are the details and specs for the Wetterhoun dog breed.

This Wetterhoun is large, thick and sturdy. Weighing in somewhere between 55-77 pounds and standing 21-23 inches at the shoulder, members of this breed need ample living space (ideally, no small apartments).

These dogs are tolerant and gentle towards kids that have been taught how to properly treat pets but keep in mind they are quite large. Small pets, however, might find themselves the target of the Wetterhounds hunting instincts. They also make excellent guard dogs and are typically reserved around those people they don't know well.

Members of this breed have low grooming requirements due to their water-proof coats and naturally unrefined look. Training for this persistent (some call 'stubborn') breed is not advocated for first time owners unless they are able to be consistent and positive at all times. They also require at least an hour of daily outdoor exercise.

This breed has its origins in the province of Friesland in the Nethlands. The Wetterhoun was originally a pest exterminator (creatures such as otter and muskrat) but was also utilized as a draft dog, waterfowl retriever and guardian, all within the peasant class. Two varieties of this breed emerged and both of which were notated by the kennel club of the Netherlands as far back as 1942, however, the breed was not "officially" recognized until 2012. The Nederlandse Vereniging voor Stabij- en Wetterhounen and De Wetterhoun Vereniging Nederland are two of the associations that attempt to regulate the responsible breeding for these dogs and are, more recently, undertaking a "crossing out" of this breed with the Barbet, Standard Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog and Labrador Retriever. This will increase the health by decreasing the rapid inbreeding of the Wetterhoun. They are recognized by several minor registries and clubs, as well as the FCI and UKC, in various groups such as gundog and waterdog.

Overall, the Wetterhoun appears balanced, square and slightly thick. The head is slightly broader than long with ears that hang down next to it in the shape of a "mason's trowel". The eyes are brown to dark-brown depending upon coat color and "bird of prey" shade is not uncommon either; the slanted shape of the lids is said to give them a "grim" look. Necks are short don't have any dewlap and lead into a very wide chest that makes the feet appear wide apart. The coat is coarse and made up of strong, tight curls that cover almost everywhere but the head and legs. Notably, the coat is said to have a "greasy" feel and is water repellant. Wetterhouns carry their tails curled up in a ring shape.

The Dutch Association for Stabij and Wetterhounen (NVSW) explains the stubbornness of the Wetterhoun in a very helpful way for those unsure about this breed. Indeed, they are said to be stubborn sometimes but more in the way of being persistent-- that is whatever they are doing, they believe it needs to be done and will finish it. Whatever task, whether it be sniffing out critters or fetching a toy, will take first priority over coming when called; however, they will heed your commands after finishing their task. The NVSW advises there really isn't a point in training them otherwise, it is a natural and relatively benign trait.

Otherwise the Wetterhoun is quite simple, they are good-humored, devoted, playful and able to do their own thing. With equal persistence to theirs, they are trainable and do truly try to be obedient. Training should never be done in loud or unhappy tones; they are sensitive to their owner and have excellent memory. They bond with this person closely and always keep them within their vision. Although not barkers unless something is amiss, and not an aggressor, they make good watchdogs and guard dogs because they will defend their owners.

Health problems for this breed are not well documented. There is an initiative in their home country to out cross this breed with several others including: Barbet, Standard Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog and Labrador Retriever; this will increase the genetic diversity and, therefore, reduce risk of serious health issues. Severe Combine Immune Deficiency Syndrome (SCID) is fatal to puppies and can be screened for via a DNA blood test. Routine checkups at your veterinarian should help prevent or aid in early detection of many disorders. Members of this breed generally live 12-13 years.