WATER DOG
The Empath: Deep, devoted, intelligent, teaming with wisdom and sensitivity, intuitive, unpredictable, playful, curious, but with little confidence. They’re emotional beings and also extremely sensitive to our emotions. They can bite when afraid and sometimes roll over and/or pee when approached. They’re usually submissive to other animals in the pack or herd. Runt of the litter. Water dogs tend to be fearful of strangers, both humans and other animals. But they teach us to trust and are often called our spiritual teachers. Water dogs learn best when they have a deep and intimate connection with their human. They are known to be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances. The water dog embodies water traits: the love for water or swimming.
When the water element is deficient, they may experience dulled vision and hearing, frequent urination, and osteoporosis. These dogs can be introverted, fearful, shy, and easily discouraged. Their emotional reflex is fear. They can be calm for one moment and go into full-blown panic the next. Deficiency of the water element can also lead to behavior problems such as fear biting. Water-type dogs can sometimes be prone to depression.
If the water element is excessive, they can be lethargic, have digestive issues, urinary retention, arthritis, joint health concerns, stubborn, aloofness, and difficulty training.
Breeds: Labrador Retriever, Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, Standard Poodle, Bernese Mountain Dog, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Irish Water Spaniel, Great Dane, Portuguese Water Dog, American Water Spaniel
Physical Characteristics: Sleek, lean, middle-sized body, athletic physique, graceful and agile body, and soft, shiny appearance. Their coats can be more prone to having a water-repellent quality.
Organs: Kidneys and Bladder
Health Predispositions: Water dogs are prone to urinary incontinence, hind leg and lower back pain, need kidney and nervous system support. They can be prone to kidney issues, bladder infections, and weak lower backs and hind ends. Water dogs often have mysterious ailments and injuries that come and go or may not be easily diagnosed by or respond to conventional medicine.
The Aging Water Dog: Needs peace and a calm environment. These dogs need to feel quiet and peaceful as they age and have a deep connection and devotion to their pet parent. They prefer to be right by your side if they can be.
