Sootie is like a border collie in a curly coated package. She is an active girl with an incredibly active mind, and needs an owner that is as active as her! She loves to go on bush walks, swimming and retrieving, search games and lots of tug and chasey, and trick training!

Spanish Water Dogs were originally bred for herding, guarding the flock and retrieving, Sootie definitely demonstrates these awesome traits in her personality, and would definitely benefit from games suited to herding and retrieving breeds (collie games, dock diving, retrieving).

Sootie is relatively unsure of new people and in particular men, so she needs an owner that is committed to continue her exposure to other people and make new friends in a positive way that sets her up for success. Management and training will be needed for the first little while, and her future owner needs to be dedicated to Sootie’s training.

Sootie has some reactivity towards dogs, however this is fairly mild. She simply prefers her own space and is not interested in making dog friends. She can absolutely go to a busy park with on lead dogs or go for a swim and run around if other dogs give her space. Her future owner needs to dedicate time to her training, and making sure they build Sootie’s trust in them, so she learns she doesn’t have to defend her space from other dogs.

Sootie is an aloof girl that tends to love ‘her’ people very strongly, and prefers to keep to herself with strangers (and dogs!). She has an introverted soul! This is something that needs to be respected, and she shouldn’t be forced into uncomfortable interactions. She is NOT a daycare dog, or a puppy play date dog, or a big birthday party gathering dog. She prefers chill hang outs with new friends and on lead dogs, where she can have her own space and hang without expectation of interacting!

Sootie is the sweetest girl, an absolute cuddle addict. She is super affectionate to people she trusts, and loves being with her people, sometimes TOO much! Her future owner needs to make sure they encourage independence in Sootie to ensure she does not develop any separation anxiety behaviors.

Sootie would suit a home where she can be the only dog, or a home with an older, neutral dog and some management. She needs an owner who is confident and can put firm, consistent boundaries in place, as Sootie is a sassy lady and without guidance will easily try to take over the household. She needs someone who loves to have fun, go on outings, explore, and do lots of activities, as well as continue her training! She is a very special dog who deserves a special home.