Wetterhoun

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: Netherlands

Group: Gun dog

Height: 21-23 in.

Weight: 33-44 lbs.

Life span: 12-13 yrs.

Trainability: moderate

Good with children: yes, with kind children

Good with other pets: yes

What is the origin of the Wetterhoun?

The Wetterhoun (houn pronounced “hoon”) is also known as the Otterhoun and Dutch Spaniel. The Wetterhoun dates back to the 1600s or earlier in Friesland County in Northwest Netherlands. The possible ancestors of the Wetterhoun (“water dog” in the Frisian language) are water dogs of Europe and Nordic types. They were bred to hunt otters, sometimes small animals.

What does the Wetterhoun look like?

The Wetterhoun has a wide, powerful body, 21-23 inches tall and weighs 33-44 lbs. The tail is tightly spiraled. The waterproof coat is thick and covered with tight curls except on the head and ears and legs. Colors are liver, liver and white, black or black and white; white may be ticked or roan.

What is the temperament of the Wetterhoun?

The Wetterhoun is a fearless dog and can be stubborn. Firm, consistent, positive training is necessary. Wetterhouns train easily and quickly as they are eager to please. They love to play and are excellent with children. They can be reserved with strangers but good with other dogs and pets. Wetterhouns need lot of vigorous exercise. They love to swim and should have a good waterhole to show their talent. They don’t adapt to apartment living as they enjoy wide open spaces where they can run free.

What is the Wetterhoun used for?

Wetterhouns are excellent retrievers. They are good watchdogs and will guard the home and family. Wetterhouns are loving, loyal family companions.

Possible Health Issues

No known health issues at present.