| Breed:
Portuguese Water Dog |
Other
Breeds |
 The
Portuguese Water Dog (PWD) is a high-spirited, highly energetic
water dog. Also known as the Portuguese fishing dog and the
Cao de Agua (dog of the water) in their homeland. Bred originally
as a water courier between boats, they are a strong retriever
with great stamina. The Portuguese Water Dog would also stand
watch on the bow of it's boat and warn of anyone's approach.
They are
amazingly intelligent, and loyal companions with a strong
working drive. Some having such great working energy, that
it needs to be channeled. The Portuguese Water Dog is versatile
and does well in canine sport or activity, although Water
Trials are their specialty.
The PWD
was recognized into the AKC working group on January 1st,
1984. A strong, well-boned dog of medium size, the PWD has
a non-shedding curly or wavy coat, which comes in several
colors.
Positive
reinforcement training should be used for a PWD, as they do
not take well to harsh training methods. (Photo: Owner of
Sharmink Kennels, Armin and Sharlene Krupp of Nova Scotia,
Canada, love the breed. "The Porty is a lovable, intelligent
breed with a great sense of humor and excellent temperament
I couldn't imagine life without one or two or even five in
it." ) |
| Height: |
A medium sized dog measuring, 17-23" males average 22",
females 19" |
| Weight: |
35-60
lbs |
| Temperament: |
Loving,
devoted and willing to work. The PWD is an energetic, highly
intelligent loyal companion and wonderful family pet. |
| Color(s): |
Black,
white, various shades of brown, brown and white, black and white
or white with black nose, eyelids and mouth. |
| Grooming: |
Regular
brushing and a trip to the groomer every 6-8 weeks to keep it
looking like a PWD. |
| Coat(s): |
Two
coat types. Curly-thick curls over the entire body, ears may
be wavy. Soft waves falling over the body. Either permissible.
The PWD coat sheds little and retains dander and shed hair in
the coat until brushed. A good breed option for people with
allergies. |
| With
Children: |
Yes |
| With
Pets: |
Yes |
| Training: |
Extremely
intelligent and willing to work. |
| Exercise: |
High. PWD's need a energy outlet to make them a happy, content
family member. |
| Health
Issues: |
Progressive retinal atrophy, a degenerative disease of the eye.
Hip and elbow dysplasia. |
| Housing: |
Portuguese Water Dogs can live happily in many different lifestyles,
although they must be exercised regularly. They are best suited
to a home with a large fenced yard. They do well with an active
family interested in sport activities or training. |
| Life
Span: |
Average
10-15 years and longer |
| Country
of Origin: |
Portugal |
| Conformation
Group: |
Working
|
| More
Resources: |
