At a glance the quick version
FCI gives about 34 kg for males and about 28 kg for females; Wikipedia gives 25-35 kg overall.
Coat and looks how to spot one
tight curly, oily water-resistant coat
A strong, solid water dog covered in firm, dense curls with a coarse, slightly oily feel that sheds water. The head and legs have short smooth hair, and the tail curls over the back.12
Personality what they are like
An independent, strong-minded dog that is loving with its family and keeps a careful eye on its home. It is reserved with strangers at first but should never be fearful, and it responds best to calm, gentle training.12
Daily activity how busy a day looks
A working hunting and water dog that enjoys regular exercise, swimming and retrieving.12
The story where it all began
The Wetterhoun has been known in Friesland for about 400 years, where it hunted otter and polecat and guarded farms. Crossing with the Stabyhoun and the war years left it close to disappearing, but enthusiasts began restoring it in 1938 and it was officially recognised in 1942.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
- 1
Its name means 'water dog' in the Frisian language.2
- 2
It was traditionally used to hunt otters, and even to pull small carts.1
- 3
Its curly coat has a natural oiliness that helps it stay dry in water.2
- 4
In the Netherlands it shares a breed society with the Stabyhoun, the Nederlandse Vereniging voor Stabij- en Wetterhounen.2
Recognised by the official bits
- FCI
- Standard no. 221, Group 8, Section 3 Water Dogs; standard dated 06.07.2023; officially recognised in the Netherlands in 1942.1
- Dutch Kennel Club (Raad van Beheer)
- Recognised.2
- UKC
- Gun Dog Group.2
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Wetterhoun. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery 2 days
- Bathevery month
- HaircutClip or scissor to keep curls from mattingevery 6 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
- Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Wetterhoun, and at what times?
Adult Wetterhoun should be fed at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests daily feeding, but exact times depend on your schedule; ask your vet for a routine that suits your dog.3 Furry Diary plan
What should a Wetterhoun eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA; always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.4
How often should I bathe a Wetterhoun?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, but the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months, more often if your dog is outdoors a lot or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo to preserve its oily coat.5 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Wetterhoun need brushing?
Brush your Wetterhoun every two days according to Furry Diary's plan, to keep its tight curly coat free of mats. The ASPCA advises weekly brushing for short smooth coats, but this breed's curls need more frequent care.5 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Wetterhoun's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside) to avoid pain and bleeding. Ask your vet or a groomer to show you if you're unsure.5 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Wetterhoun need?
This working water dog enjoys daily walks, play, swimming, and retrieving. Furry Diary's plan recommends daily exercise. Aim for at least 30, 60 minutes of activity each day, adjusting to your dog's energy level.12 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Wetterhoun's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth two to three times a week (daily is ideal) using dog toothpaste only. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, never push anything into the ear canal. Furry Diary's plan suggests ear checks every 7 days and teeth brushing every 2 days.5 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Wetterhoun live?
Lifespan varies by individual, and the provided information does not specify a range. For a reliable estimate, ask your breeder or veterinarian, who can give guidance based on the dog's health and lineage.
Is a Wetterhoun good with children and other pets?
Yes, the Wetterhoun is described as loving with its family and keeps a careful eye on its home. It is reserved with strangers but not fearful. With proper socialization, it can be good with children and other pets, but always supervise introductions.12
Can a Wetterhoun be left alone?
The provided information does not address being left alone. This independent breed may tolerate short periods, but every dog is different. Consult your breeder or a trainer for advice on alone time and preventing separation anxiety.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at support@furrydiary.app and we will fix it.
- FCI Standard No. 221 Wetterhoun fci.beused for recognition, size, coat, colours, temperament, history, uses
- Wikipedia: Wetterhoun en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, size range, history, UKC group (secondary)
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.