History of the Portuguese Water Dog Breed The Portuguese water dog traces its ancestry to the Portuguese province of Algarve. There is some speculation that the poodle played some part in its development. It is known as the “dog of water�?(or “cao de agua�?in Portuguese). This breed has a special love of water. It was a favorite of Portuguese fishermen, even known for herding fish. It also swam to retrieve broken nets as well as delivering messages from boat to boat. It even joined the fishing crews on voyages between Portugal and Iceland. The breed suffered and almost disappeared when there was a change in fishing practices in the 20 th century. The dog was saved primarily by Vasco Bensuade. Through his efforts, a breed club was begun anew and a breed standard was established. After nearly vanishing in Europe, the breed was introduced in America in the 1950s. The breed gained momentum and was recognized by the AKC in 1984. The popularity of this breed continues to grow and is a family friend in many households. Size and Appearance of the Portuguese Water Dog The Portuguese water dog is of medium build and longer than it is tall. It is a tough, muscular breed that never seems to tire. It has hanging heart-shaped ears and webbed toes that aid in swimming. Its thick tail also helps it swim, because the Portuguese water dog uses the appendage as a rudder. The breed carries an alert and penetrating expression as it awaits its next job or command. It takes short steps and is well balanced, showing that the breed is as comfortable on land as it is in the water. Its dense single coat can be one of two varieties: wavy or curly. The coat is commonly cut one of two ways. In the lion clip, the middle torso to the tail and the muzzle are clipped. In the retriever clip, the entire coat is trimmed to outline the silhouette of the dog. In either case, the tip of the tail is left full length. The breed comes in black, white, various shades of brown, white with dark spots, or dark shades of black or brown with white markings or even in silver or gray. Portuguese Water Dog Temperament This intelligent breed is very obedient and enjoys work and play with the same enthusiasm. The Portuguese water dog is loyal and dedicated to its family. It gets along well with children; although usually will not obey them, since it sees them as its equal. It usually accepts other pets, but may be jealous if not raised with them. The breed works without tiring and seems to derive great pleasure in following commands. Portuguese Water Dog Recommended Maintenance The Portuguese Water Dog does not shed and requires brushing ever other day in addition to monthly clipping. Its ears need special attention, especially after it goes swimming. It is an active breed that enjoys work. It loves to swim and retrieve, but also enjoys long walks or free play in a safe area. It also makes an excellent jogging partner. The Portuguese water dog does best as an indoor pet with daily access to a fenced yard. It can live in an apartment with proper exercise and can also live outdoors in temperate climates with daily socialization. This breed is easy to train and thrives on the mental alertness required in obedience training. It is sensitive to its owner’s tone of voice, so gentle and consistent training is sufficient. Portuguese Water Dog Health �?Life span: 10 �?14 years
�?Major concerns: PRA, CHD
�?Minor concerns: glycogen storage disease, distichiasis
�?Occasionally seen: none
�?Suggested tests: eye, hip
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