The Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog

As you would guess the Portuguese Water dog originates from the country of Portugal. It is an ancient breed dating back to the middle ages. One can guess from observation that the breed shares its ancestry with the Poodle and other herding dogs from central Asia. It is believed that the breed was introduced to Portugal by the Visigoths in the fifth century or possibly by the Moors in the eight century.

It was quite a versatile dog and was used in many roles including:

pulling and retrieving fish nets in the water

carrying messages while swimming from one boat to another or from boat to shore

a small vermin hunter on land.

The typical coat is long in the front and on its chest, while being cut short on the hind legs and most of the tail. This unique grooming was done to protect its chest from the shock of cold water. Having it hind legs cropped closer allowed it swim more efficiently. Finally, a tuft of hair at the end, allowed the tail to float. A one of a kind coat for one of a kind dog!

The Portuguese Water dog was known in its native land as the Cao de Agua, meaning water dog. Numbers for this breed began to decline significantly in the twentieth century as the traditional fishing methods began to disappear. The decline was halted through the efforts of a wealthy shipping magnate, Dr. Vasco Bensuade. Through his efforts a breed club was started and a resulting breed standard was created. The breed was exhibited in the show ring in the early 1950's. It was introduced into America a little later and has enjoyed a slow but steady increase in popularity since then. It was recognized by the AKC in 1984.

The Portuguese Water dog makes a fun-loving family dog. It is especially fond of water but enjoys strenuous activities either in the water or on land. It makes an ideal companion for an active person who wants an affection and energetic pet.

The Portuguese Water dog at a glance:

Origin	It originates from Portugal dating back to the Middle Ages.
Original Use	Versatile water dog employed by fishermen.
Use Today	Companion, guarding, retrieving.
Temperament	The Portuguese Water dog is outgoing and sociable. It is sensitive and responds well to direction. It is biddable and willing to please. It gets along well with just about everyone and every other pet.
Acceptance of:	Other Dogs - Good
	Other Pets - Good
	Strangers - Average, it may be a little suspicious.
	Children -
Watchdog Ability	Good
Guard dog Ability	Good
Ease of Training	Good
Living Conditions	The Portuguese Water dog can live outdoors in temperate climates. However, because of its social nature it does better with more contact with its family.
Exercise	It requires daily exercise. Ideally it likes to swim, but where this is not possible a long walk or jog will suffice.
Coat	It has a profuse single layered long coat that is often cut in distinctive fashion for work or show. The hair can be wavy or curly.
Grooming	It requires brushing twice a week and clipping every month or two.
Colors	The Portuguese Water dog comes in a variety of colors including white, brown, black, black and white, and brown and white.
Height and Weight	Weight range is 35 to 55 pounds (16 to 25 kg) while the height range is 17 to 22.5 inches (43 to 57 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals.
Life Expectancy	Life expectancy is 12 to 14 years.
Group	The AKC places the Portuguese Water dog in the Working group.

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