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About Breed

Wetterhoun is a rare water dog of Netherlands, which was originally trained as a hunter and protector. It is a quiet breed with some confidence and is thoughtful and independent, and is not usually exuberant. Wetterhouns are close to their families and by their very nature, are protective, and therefore, early socialization is significant. They are bright and good learners but training ought to be careful and respectful. The moderate amount of energy every day, in form of walks and some swimming, is appropriate to them. The thick, curly coat is very easy to maintain but waterproof. Wetterhouns are not generally sociable with strangers and very faithful and faithful at home. They are good in the stable environment where routines and leadership are clear. Through the constant care, interest, and affection, the Wetterhoun is a dependable companion that appreciates a purpose, trust, and meaningful interaction (Wetterhoun 1). The patience, organization and mild guidance can make this breed thrive physically, mentally socially and emotionally throughout many years with owners determined to consistency.

Origin

Netherlands

Size

Medium

Ideal Space

House with yard

Top 5 Traits
  • Loyal
  • Intelligent
  • Protective
  • Calm
  • Strong
Height

55 cms (males)

53 cms (females)

Coat Length

Medium

Coat Type

Curly

Life Expectancy

12–14 years

Ideal Weather

5°C to 24°C

Weight

25 kgs (Male)

20 kgs (Female)

Color
  • Black, Brown, White
    Job & Working Abilities
    • Water Work
    • Guarding
    • Companion
    Allergies & Hypoallergenic Status
    • Not hypoallergenic
    • Moderate shed
    • Skin sensitivity possible
    • Moderate dander
    Common Behavior Issues
    • Independence
    • Guarding instincts
    Travel & Adaptability
    • Moderate
    Wetterhoun Breed Information

    Characteristics

    Wetterhoun is a smart, gentle, and free-thinking working breed owned by the Netherlands as a traditional working breed in water and property guard. This breed is associated with stable temper, the high level of loyalty, and the inbuilt confidence.Wetterhouns are well bonded with their families, but are not very demanding of attention. They are pensive and quiet, and they tend to evaluate circumstances and then respond. Training should be done with patience and regularity since they like to be cooperated with and not repetitively. Their activity rate is moderate, like taking purposeful walks, swimming, and activities that are thought provoking. Wetterhouss are inherently protective and also alert hence they can be good watchdogs but not too aggressive. When socialized with strangers, they are reserved and tolerant. They usually get along with children and other dogs in case they are introduced at an early age. This kind of breed likes orderly and routine surroundings. Although they are more suited to homes with space, they are able to deal with less noisy homes. All in all, the Wetterhoun is an independent, loyal, intelligent, and emotionally stable dog, which can be a reliable companion to the owner who appreciates the idea of having a thoughtful, calm, and reliable working dog with a good character.

    Grooming Needs
    LowHigh
    Health Issues Risk
    LowHigh
    Shredding Level
    LowHigh
    Height:
    Puppy (0-6 M)
    Adolescent (6-12 M)
    Adult (1-2 Y)
    Senior (6+ Y)
    MALE
    23 cms
    48 cms
    55 cms
    54 cms
    FEMALE
    21 cms
    45 cms
    50 cms
    48 cms
    Weight:
    Puppy (0-6 M)
    Adolescent (6-12 M)
    Adult (1-2 Y)
    Senior (6+ Y)
    MALE
    5 kgs
    18 kgs
    25 kgs
    23 kgs
    FEMALE
    4.5 kgs
    16 kgs
    22 kgs
    20 kgs
    Pet Nutrition
    Carbohydrates
    30–40%
    Protein
    22–26%
    Fats
    8–12
    Essentials, Vitamins & Minerals
    8
    Total Kcal Per day
    1200–1700 kcal

    Pet Nutrition

    Nutrition Information

    The Wetterhoun nutrition must focus on balanced power, stability of the joints, and stable energy and assist in its relaxed but competent working spirit. Animal protein based high quality diet is needed to sustain the muscle tone and general condition of the body. Appropriate sources of protein are chicken, fish, lamb, or turkey which should be balanced. The moderate healthy fats help in skin, coat, and joint lubrication but fat must be taken in moderation to avoid excess weight. Complex carbohydrates (brown rice, barley, or oats) are long-lasting sources of energy and will benefit digestive well-being. Since the Wetterhoun is naturally endowed with an understanding metabolism, one should not overfeed it. The ideal division of meals is to separate them into two parts per day to enhance the digestion and the maintenance of constant energy levels. Such joint supporting nutrients as omega fatty acids and glucosamine are helpful, particularly when the breed is of old age or is moderately active. The thick curly hair has the advantage of containing nutrients that help in keeping the skin healthy such as zinc and necessary fatty acids. Additions of fresh vegetables like pumpkin, carrots or green beans should be done sparingly as a source of fiber and micronutrients. Rewards must be minimized and functional and are mostly applied in the training. There should always be clean and fresh water. On the whole, the diet of the Wetterhoun must be regular, convenient, and well-balanced instead of excessive. Prudent control of portions, quality of the ingredients, and age, activity, and season are some of the factors that help in maintaining the best weight and mobility. Under the conditions of stable feeding schedule and constant check-ups, the Wetterhoun can be successfully maintained with good digestion, stable energy sources, good joints, and longer well-being between their adolescence and old age under the conditions of organized families.

    Pet Diet

      Calories per day

      • Puppy - 1600–2200 kcal
      • Adolescent - 1400–2000 kcal
      • Adult - 1500–2100 kcal
      • Senior - 1200–1700 kcal

    List of Meat

    • Chicken
    • Beef
    • Turkey
    • Chicken Liver
    • Duck Meat

    List of Vegetables

    • Cabbage
    • Parsnip
    • Beetroot
    • Squash
    • Brussels Sprouts

    Diet Information

    Wetterhoun diet must be based on balanced strength, support of work and joints and the need to maintain moderate energy levels and consider its calm but potential nature of work. There should be a high quality diet containing animal based protein to keep the muscles tone and body at large. Appropriate sources of protein are chicken, fish, lamb, or turkey that should be consumed in reasonable proportions. Fatty acids are also necessary to maintain healthy skin, coat condition and lubrication of joints, omega three fatty acids in particular, yet fat in the body should be kept at a reasonable level to avoid extra weight gain. Brown rice, barley or oats contain complex carbohydrates that are a source of sustained energy and help stabilize the digestive system. Since the Wetterhoun is born with a moderate metabolism, they must not be overfed and they should not be fed large amounts that are not proportional to the activity level. The most appropriate division of meals is presented in two servings per day to encourage digestion and stable energy. The supplementary nutrients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and fish oil are all good especially when the breed is aged or middle aged and is still moderately active. The thick and curly hair is enriched with nutrients that are also favorable to the skin such as zinc and essential fatty acids. To add fiber and micronutrients, fresh vegetables may be added in small amounts, i.e. pumpkin, carrots or green beans. There should be a limitation of fruit consumption on the basis of sugar. Snacks should be regulated and primarily be used to train. There should always be clean and fresh water. In general, regular and feasible diet allows mobility, even-temperedness, and long term wellbeing. Being given the right amount, proper ingredients, proper adjustments according to age, activity and season, maintain the Wetterhoun in the best body condition, good digestion and good joints, and the much needed vitality though the stages of puppyhood, adulthood and senior years.

      List of Carbs

    • Brown Rice
    • Oatmeal
    • Quinoa
    • Barley
    • Sweet Potato

      List of Fruits

    • Apricot
    • Cherry
    • Kiwi
    • Pomegranate
    • Grapes (small portions)

      List of Fats

    • Olive Oil
    • Coconut Oil
    • Flaxseed Oil
    • Salmon Oil
    • Pumpkin Seed Oil

    Safe Foods

    Wetter houn safe foods must help in maintaining strength, joint stability and relaxed digestion. Boiled chicken, turkey, fish, lamb, and eggs are lean and therefore safe when cooked without salt, spices, or oil. Good quality medium breed dog food is safe to be used as the foundation of the daily food. Baked grains such as brown rice, barley, oats and sweet potatoes are long-acting sources of energy and are also helpful in the digestive system. There are safe vegetables such as pumpkin, carrots, green beans, cucumber, zucchini and spinach which provide fiber. Apples, blueberries, bananas, pears, and watermelon are fruits that have no seeds and can be administered in small amounts after some time. Fish oil, flaxeed oil and other healthy fats are safe in moderation to maintain the skin, coat, and joints. Food must be fresh, well cooked, portioned, gradually introduced and served with always ready access to clean drinking water so as to keep hydrated, digestible, mobile, immune and in good health at all stages of life.

    List of Unsafe Foods

    • Chocolate
    • Garlic
    • Grapes
    • Cooked Bones
    • Onion

    Unsafe Foods

    Wetterhoun must not consume hazardous foods that can wreak havoc on joints, digestive and stable health. Dogs also are toxic to chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, leeks and chives. Xylitol containing sugar free products cause blood sugar crashes and liver damage which are life threatening. Cooked bones are weak, and give the danger of choking, or internal injury. Fatty scraps, fried foods, spicy food and those that are substantially spiced may lead to pancreatitis and digestive distress. Excessive amount of salt and sweets overworks the heart and teeth. The raw dough of yeast is not safe and it develops in the stomach.Milk products may lead to bloating, gasses or diarrhea. Macadamia nuts are poisonous and they should not be given to eat. It is not permissible to consume spoiled food, mouldy products and other leftovers that are not safe. The over feeding treats cause obesity and stress of joints. The non-consumption of these products aids in the easy digestion, locomotion, weight, and wellbeing of all the life phases of this stable working water breed dogs anywhere.

    Pet Health

    Health Information

    The Wetterhoun must be under steady and delicate upkeep that will not emphasize its relaxed character and work experience or mighty build. I should also ensure my perfect body weight since the body weight over stretches the joints, heart and the entire body generally. During the life of a living being, veterinary check-ups are a routine way of monitoring the musculoskeletal conditions, heart diseases, eye health and general health. There are also high chances that the breed will be joint stiff, ear infected and skin over sensitive which makes it crucial to screen the breed at an early age and keep track of it with regularity. Workouts have to be normal and moderated yet daily in the form of walks, swimming and purposive actions rather than drilling repetitions. Wetterhouns are independent and stoic, thus able to hide any distress they experience and, as such, the owners require the ability to notice even the smallest changes in the body posture, eating, or even behavior. Due to the density of the ear hair and the fact that ear is in contact with water, ear care is particularly important where ear ought to be dried and cleaned frequently. Dental health should be taken care of by brushing, using chews and getting professional cleaning to prevent periodontal disease. Skin and coat Coat and skin This still assists in the regular grooming of the coat, parasites and checking the irritation of the skin. The preventive control is founded on the vaccinations, deworming, controlling fleas, prevention of ticks and prevention of heartworms. There is also the problem of mental health, and lack of order or excitement may cause withdrawal or stubbornness. Emotion balance is facilitated by relaxation exercise, routine and tender interaction. It directly affects the health (joints, digestion, and energy), and requires quality products and portions. The aged Wetterhouns have joint supplements, soft bedding and modified exercises. Nail clipping, checking of the paws and eye checking should become a habit. One must be hydrated especially during swimming or when it is hot. Emergency preparedness improves response to illness or injury by improving insurance planning and proper medical records. High-security fencing and patrol are low-risk environments that reduce the risks of accidents. With responsible breeding, early health inspection, daily affection and regular veterinary recommendations, the Wetterhoun was able to remain strong, confident, robust, and enjoy an incredible quality of life not only during his/her puppy years, but also throughout his/her entire life until his/her old age. The owners are supposed to keep it clean by keeping close observation patterns, frequent visits, open contact with the veterinarians, adjust the care plan to the season, be patient, consistent, and calm in the leadership, and ensure that the pain is addressed in time, the stress is minimized, the mobility is sustained, the learning process is positive, the routine activities at home can be predicted, the medical instructions are followed properly, the emergencies are addressed as fast as possible, the aging process is treated with a certain degree of respect, and the dog is held, appreciated, active, and supported within the home-based set This devotion enables trust, reduction of avoidable disease, prolongation of life and the establishment of a stable relationship that is built around understanding, readiness, empathy, reliability, security, wellness, lifetime companionship at all times.

    Common Health Issues

    • Hip dysplasia
    • Ear infections
    • Skin issues

    Energy Level

    • Medium

    Allergies & Hypoallergenic

    • Not hypoallergenic
    • Moderate shed
    • Skin sensitivity possible
    • Moderate dander

    Well Being

    • Regular exercise
    • Ear care
    • Mental stimulation

    Recognizing Stress

    • Panting
    • Restlessness
    • Pacing

    Exercise Routine

    • 45 to 60 minutes

    The Wetterhoun must be under steady and delicate upkeep that will not emphasize its relaxed character and work experience or mighty build. I should also ensure my perfect body weight since the body weight over stretches the joints, heart and the entire body generally. During the life of a living being, veterinary check-ups are a routine way of monitoring the musculoskeletal conditions, heart diseases, eye health and general health. There are also high chances that the breed will be joint stiff, ear infected and skin over sensitive which makes it crucial to screen the breed at an early age and keep track of it with regularity. Workouts have to be normal and moderated yet daily in the form of walks, swimming and purposive actions rather than drilling repetitions. Wetterhouns are independent and stoic, thus able to hide any distress they experience and, as such, the owners require the ability to notice even the smallest changes in the body posture, eating, or even behavior. Due to the density of the ear hair and the fact that ear is in contact with water, ear care is particularly important where ear ought to be dried and cleaned frequently. Dental health should be taken care of by brushing, using chews and getting professional cleaning to prevent periodontal disease. Skin and coat Coat and skin This still assists in the regular grooming of the coat, parasites and checking the irritation of the skin. The preventive control is founded on the vaccinations, deworming, controlling fleas, prevention of ticks and prevention of heartworms. There is also the problem of mental health, and lack of order or excitement may cause withdrawal or stubbornness. Emotion balance is facilitated by relaxation exercise, routine and tender interaction. It directly affects the health (joints, digestion, and energy), and requires quality products and portions. The aged Wetterhouns have joint supplements, soft bedding and modified exercises. Nail clipping, checking of the paws and eye checking should become a habit. One must be hydrated especially during swimming or when it is hot. Emergency preparedness improves response to illness or injury by improving insurance planning and proper medical records. High-security fencing and patrol are low-risk environments that reduce the risks of accidents. With responsible breeding, early health inspection, daily affection and regular veterinary recommendations, the Wetterhoun was able to remain strong, confident, robust, and enjoy an incredible quality of life not only during his/her puppy years, but also throughout his/her entire life until his/her old age. The owners are supposed to keep it clean by keeping close observation patterns, frequent visits, open contact with the veterinarians, adjust the care plan to the season, be patient, consistent, and calm in the leadership, and ensure that the pain is addressed in time, the stress is minimized, the mobility is sustained, the learning process is positive, the routine activities at home can be predicted, the medical instructions are followed properly, the emergencies are addressed as fast as possible, the aging process is treated with a certain degree of respect, and the dog is held, appreciated, active, and supported within the home-based set This devotion enables trust, reduction of avoidable disease, prolongation of life and the establishment of a stable relationship that is built around understanding, readiness, empathy, reliability, security, wellness, lifetime companionship at all times.

    Pet Activities:

    Engaging your pet in daily walks, fetch, or toys keeps your pet fit, mentally sharp, and well-behaved while strengthening your bond.

    Swimming & Retrieval Play (35–45 mins)

    Swimming & Retrieval Play (35–45 mins)

    Wetterhoun dogs thrive on swimming sessions, fetch games, and outdoor exploration.

    Endurance Walks & Swimming (35 – 45 mins)

    Endurance Walks & Swimming (35 – 45 mins)

    Wetterhouns enjoy long walks, swimming sessions, and active outdoor play.

    Obedience Training (20 – 30 mins)

    Obedience Training (20 – 30 mins)

    Structured training sessions using commands like sit, stay, recall, and heel help improve discipline and mental stimulation. Akitas are intelligent and independent; consistent obedience training enhances discipline and mental engagement.

    Pet Grooming
    Grooming Information

    The Wetterhoun is a low energy dog that requires grooming as it has a dense, curly coat and is very active in places with water or outdoors. Brushing with a wide toothed comb or slicker brush should be done twice or thrice a week to the coat to ensure that the coat is not matted, to clear the debris and to maintain an appropriate structure of the curl. When shedding seasonally, brushing is more frequently performed so that loose hair gets controlled and the coat is preserved. It should also be bathed at least not more than once or twice a year, preferably six or eight weeks, with a light dog shampoo that does not deprive the skin of its natural oils because bathing may make the skin dry. Since Wetterhouns like to swim, water must be completely washed off the coat and skin and dried after coming in contact with water to avoid irritation and smell. Pay attention to ear care in particular, the ear hair and moisture may predispose an infection; it is necessary to wash ears once a week with an approved solution by a veterinarian. Trimming nails after every three to four weeks is a way of preventing overgrowth, discomfort as well as alterations in gait. To prevent plaque and gum disease, dental care should be ensured by brushing teeth a few times a week. Routine examination of eyes should be done to ensure that they are normal or without discharge or redness. You should also check the paw pads following an outdoor activity to see whether they have any cuts or mud or any trapped items. Grooming exercises also enable the early observation of parasites, skin complications or injuries. Positive reinforcement and calm handling would minimise stress. Professional grooming should also be performed occasionally to keep the coat in order and provide instructions on the same to the owners. Regular grooming promotes health, comfort, coat maintenance, attachment, self-confidence and the long term health at any stage of life.

    Shedding Level

    High

    Hygienic Checklist

    • Basic Grooming

    Benefits of Grooming

    • Coat & Skin Health

    More Images of Wetterhoun

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