Animals

The name of the Wetterhoun has been derived from the Dutch name for water dog. The Wetterhoun was first bred in the Friesland province about 400 years ago. These dogs are very rare, and are not seen often outside the Netherlands. The Wetterhoun are mainly responsible for locating and killing otters. They are also used to hunt small mammals, and they are also very good guard dogs.

Wetterhouns are very challenging dogs when it comes to their physicality – they can also be very sensitive. The Wetterhoun is very bright, and can also be very obstinate. These dogs are courageous and very dependant – and they love to swim.

The Frisian Water dog is reserved about strangers and an ideal guard-dog. Active, brave and fearless, with powerful teeth abd scissor bite, the dog can work many hours in the water. At the same time the Wetterhoun has a very affectionate and sensitive nature and becomes very attached to his family. If you consider make this breed your family companion, please know that this is a working breed with strong hunting instincts that and can be aggressive to other pets. The Frisian is an excellent retriever and hunts very close to his master. It can be stubborn and requires firm and consistent training.

For its own people the Wetterhoun is a good-natured and friendly dog – and this includes the children, provided they treat him properly. For unknown visitors the story is entirely different. In this case it will take up a cautious watch and will protect the home from intruders. Family friends on the other hand will get a hearty welcome. Other dogs and pets will be accepted without a murmur.