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Portuguese Water Dog
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Medium Breed |
  
See your dog's photograph or illustration here |
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Working Dog |
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Country of Origin
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Portugal in the Middle Ages |
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Ancestry |
Likely a descendant of
herding dogs from central Asia. Probably shares some ancestry with the
poodle. |
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Original Function |
A working dog for fishermen
doing various tasks including retrieving equipment and herding fish. |
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Height at Shoulder |
Female 17-21" Male
20-23" |
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Weight |
Female 35-50 lbs Male
40-60 lbs |
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Lifespan |
14 Years |
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Coat |
Two types: long-coated (wavy)
and curly-coated. Black, brown and white. Combinations of black and
white or brown and white. |
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Tail |
Long curved tail held over
the rump. |
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Head |
Large , strong head with long
nose. |
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Ears |
Medium-sized drop ears |
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Related Breeds |
Poodle, Kerry Blue Terrier,
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier |
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Alternative Names |
Cao de Agua, Cao de Agua de
Pelo Ondulado (long/wavy coat), Cao de Agua de Pelo Encaradolado (curly
coat) |
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Nicknames |
Portie, PWD |
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Grooming: |
Single, thick, abundant non-shedding coat requires
frequent combing and bi-monthly clipping depending on hair growth.
Lion clip: The muzzle, the back end and all but the end of the tail are
clipped short (see illustration above). This is a traditional but
unusual-looking cut which makes the Portuguese Water Dog look as if it
is wearing a fuzzy hoodie.
Retriever clip: A sporty, all over 1" clip which makes the Portuguese
Water Dog resemble a poodle or Labradoodle.
As a non-shedding dog, the Portuguese Water Dog is
hypoallergenic. |
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Exercise requirements: |
High, preferably in and out of water for swimming and
retrieving. |
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Aggression: |
The Portuguese Water Dog is a generally friendly dog that
is good with people and other animals. It can be a good watchdog
when necessary. |
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Temperament: |
This is an energetic, robust, strong working dog that needs to have
plenty of activity and company. It will not be happy sitting in
the house by itself for long periods of time. |
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Owner requirement: |
Firm, strong and athletic. Willing to keep the dog
trained and exercised. Willing to provide constant companionship. |
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Trainability |
Moderate |
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Health concerns |
Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD), Progressive Retinal Atrophy
(PRA), cataracts, glycogen storage disease, distichiasis. |
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Environmental requirements: |
Moderate tolerance for heat and cold. |
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Feeding requirements: |
No special requirements |
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AKC: American Kennel Club USA: Working Group since 1984
UKC: United Kennel Club USA: Gun Dogs
CKC: Canadian
Kennel Club: Group 3 Working
Dogs
FCI: Fédération
Cynologique Internationale:
Retrievers, Flushers, Water Dogs (Group 8/Section 3/Breed 37)
ANKC: Australian National Kennel Council: Group 6 Utility
KCUK: Kennel Club United Kingdom: Working
NZKC: New Zealand Kennel Club: Utility |
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The Portuguese Water Dog was developed as an all around
fisherman's helper from dogs which followed trade routes from Asia to
Portugal. They were used as water couriers, retrievers and herders of
fish into nets. They guarded the boats and sometimes saved fishermen
in the water. The Portuguese Water Dog almost died out in the early
1900s as commercial fishing methods changed.
The breed was saved and
promoted by Dr Vasco Bensuade a shipping magnate. The breed again
almost died out in the mid 1900s but, through fits and starts, slowly gained
popularity as a family pet around the world. It is possible that the
Kerry Blue Terrier is a cross between a Portuguese Water Dog and a Soft
Coated Wheaten Terrier.
The Portuguese Water Dog is a robust and lively dog that
needs companionship and plenty of exercise. Without these, it can
become unhappy and destructive. Its non-shedding coat requires combing
and clipping. |
Buy Portuguese Water Dog Clothing and Accessories for People
Buy Portuguese Water Dog Home Accessories
Buy Portuguese Water Dog Books and Printed Materials |
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