Portuguese Water Dog: If you’re looking for a dog that’s highly intelligent, energetic, and loves to swim, then the Portuguese Water Dog might be the breed for you. This breed is known for its unique coat that doesn’t shed, making it a great option for people with allergies. In this article, we’ll explore the history, characteristics, and care of the Portuguese Water Dog to help you decide if this breed is right for you.
Introduction Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog, also known as the Cão de Água Português, is a breed that originated in Portugal. These dogs were originally used as fishing companions, helping fishermen retrieve nets and dive for fish. They are highly intelligent, trainable, and energetic, making them great companions for active families.
History of the Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog has a long history in Portugal, dating back to the 12th century. They were used by fishermen to help retrieve nets, dive for fish, and deliver messages between boats. In addition, the breed was used as a guard dog for fishing boats, as they were known for their loyalty and protective nature.
The breed nearly became extinct in the 20th century due to changes in fishing technology and practices. However, a group of breed enthusiasts in Portugal worked to preserve the breed and eventually brought it to the United States. Today, the Portuguese Water Dog is recognized by the American Kennel Club and is a popular breed for families.
Physical Characteristics of the Portuguese Water Dog
Coat and Colors
The Portuguese Water Dog has a unique coat that doesn’t shed, making it a great option for people with allergies. The coat can be curly or wavy, and comes in a variety of colors including black, brown, white, and black and white. The coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Size and Weight of Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized breed, with males typically weighing between 42 and 60 pounds and females weighing between 35 and 50 pounds. They typically stand between 17 and 23 inches tall at the shoulder.
Body Shape
The Portuguese Water Dog has a strong, muscular body with a broad chest and powerful legs. Their webbed feet and love of water make them excellent swimmers.
Temperament and Personality of the Portuguese Water Dog
Intelligence and Trainability Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a highly intelligent breed that is eager to learn. They are quick learners and excel in obedience training, agility, and other dog sports. However, they can be stubborn at times and require consistent training and positive reinforcement.
Energy Level
The Portuguese Water Dog is a high-energy breed that requires daily exercise. They love to swim, play fetch, and go on long walks or hikes. Without regular exercise, they can become bored and destructive. They thrive in homes with large yards or access to bodies of water where they can swim and play.
Family Compatibility
The Portuguese Water Dog is a friendly and affectionate breed that loves to be around their family. They are great with children and make excellent playmates. However, they can be reserved with strangers and require proper socialization to prevent shyness or fearfulness.
Grooming and Care for the Portuguese Water Dog
Coat Care
The unique coat of the Portuguese Water Dog requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. They should be brushed every few days and trimmed every 6-8 weeks. In addition, they should be bathed regularly to keep their coat clean and healthy.
Exercise Needs
The Portuguese Water Dog is a high-energy breed that requires daily exercise. They love to swim, play fetch, and go on long walks or hikes. Without regular exercise, they can become bored and destructive. They thrive in homes with large yards or access to bodies of water where they can swim and play.
Health Concerns Portuguese Water Dog
Like all breeds, the Portuguese Water Dog is prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health concerns for this breed include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and Addison’s disease. It’s important to work with a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs to minimize the risk of these health issues.
Training and Socialization for the Portuguese Water Dog
Basic Training
The Portuguese Water Dog is a highly intelligent breed that is eager to learn. They excel in obedience training, agility, and other dog sports. However, they can be stubborn at times and require consistent training and positive reinforcement. It’s important to start training early and socialize them with a variety of people and animals to prevent shyness or fearfulness.
Socialization
Proper socialization is crucial for the Portuguese Water Dog. They can be reserved with strangers and require early socialization to prevent shyness or fearfulness. They should be exposed to a variety of people, animals, and environments from a young age to help them become confident and well-adjusted adults.
Activities and Jobs for the Portuguese Water Dog
Water Sports
The Portuguese Water Dog is an excellent swimmer and loves to be in the water. They excel in water sports such as dock diving, water retrieving, and surfing. These activities not only provide physical exercise, but mental stimulation as well.
Agility
The Portuguese Water Dog is a highly agile breed that excels in agility competitions. They love to run and jump, and can navigate obstacle courses with ease. Agility training provides physical exercise, mental stimulation, and a great bonding experience between dog and owner.
Therapy Work
The friendly and affectionate nature of the Portuguese Water Dog makes them great candidates for therapy work. They can provide comfort and support to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. Therapy work also provides mental stimulation and a great way to bond with your dog.
Finding and Adopting a Portuguese Water Dog
Breeders
When looking for a Portuguese Water Dog, it’s important to work with a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs and provides a healthy, loving environment for their puppies. The Portuguese Water Dog Club of America can provide a list of reputable breeders in your area.
Rescue Organizations
If you’re interested in adopting a Portuguese Water Dog, there are several rescue organizations that specialize in the breed. These organizations rescue and rehome dogs in need, providing them with a second chance at a loving home.
Cost of Portuguese Water Dog
The cost of a Portuguese Water Dog can vary depending on the breeder and location. Expect the cost to be between $1,500 and $3,000, with some breeders charging more for show quality dogs.
Conclusion
The Portuguese Water Dog is a wonderful breed that excels in many different activities and makes a great family companion. With their friendly and affectionate nature, high energy level, and unique coat, they are sure to make a lasting impression on anyone who meets them.
FAQs
Are Portuguese Water Dogs good with children?
Yes, Portuguese Water Dogs are great with children and make excellent playmates.
Do Portuguese Water Dogs shed?
No, Portuguese Water Dogs have a hypoallergenic coat that does not shed. However, they do require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Do Portuguese Water Dogs need a lot of exercise?
Yes, Portuguese Water Dogs are a high-energy breed that require daily exercise. They love to swim, play fetch, and go on long walks or hikes.
Are Portuguese Water Dogs good for apartment living?
Portuguese Water Dogs are not recommended for apartment living. They require a large yard or access to bodies of water where they can swim and play.
Are Portuguese Water Dogs easy to train?
Portuguese Water Dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please, but can be stubborn at times. They require consistent training and positive reinforcement.
Do Portuguese Water Dog get along with other animals?
Yes, with proper socialization, Portuguese Water Dogs can get along with other animals. However, they have a strong prey drive and should be supervised around small animals.
What health issues are common in Portuguese Water Dogs?
Some of the most common health concerns for Portuguese Water Dogs include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and Addison’s disease.
How much does a Portuguese Water Dog cost?
The cost of a Portuguese Water Dog can vary depending on the breeder and location, but expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000.
Do Portuguese Water Dogs require a lot of grooming?
Yes, Portuguese Water Dogs require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. They should be brushed every few days and trimmed every 6-8 weeks.
What activities do Portuguese Water Dogs excel in?
Portuguese Water Dogs excel in water sports such as dock diving and water retrieving, as well as agility competitions and therapy work.
Is a Portuguese Water Dog a good family dog?
Yes, Portuguese Water Dogs are excellent family dogs. They are loyal, affectionate, and highly trainable.
Why are Portuguese water dogs so expensive?
Portuguese Water Dogs are expensive because they are a rare breed and have a high demand. Additionally, they require specialized breeding and care.
Do Portuguese water dogs shed a lot?
No, Portuguese Water Dogs are a non-shedding breed, which makes them great for people with allergies.
Can Portuguese water dogs be left alone?
Portuguese Water Dogs do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. They are social animals and thrive on human interaction.
Are Portuguese water dogs high maintenance?
Yes, Portuguese Water Dogs are high maintenance dogs. They require a lot of exercise, grooming, and training to keep them healthy and happy.
What is the downside of Portuguese Water Dog?
The downside of Portuguese Water Dogs is that they require a lot of attention and care. They are high maintenance dogs that need a lot of exercise, grooming, and training.
Do Portuguese water dogs smell?
No, Portuguese Water Dogs do not have a strong odor. They are a relatively odorless breed.
How often should you walk a Portuguese Water Dog?
Portuguese Water Dogs need at least an hour of exercise a day, which can be divided into two walks.
Are Portuguese Water Dogs prone to separation anxiety?
Yes, Portuguese Water Dogs are prone to separation anxiety. They are social animals and do not like to be left alone for long periods of time.
How long does it take to potty train a Portuguese Water Dog?
It takes about 4-6 months to potty train a Portuguese Water Dog. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful potty training.
Why are Portuguese water dogs shaved?
Portuguese Water Dogs are shaved for practical reasons, such as to reduce shedding, prevent matting, and to make swimming easier for the dog.
Are Portuguese water dogs nippy?
No, Portuguese Water Dogs are not generally nippy. They are known for their gentle and friendly nature.
Why are Portuguese water dogs so mouthy?
Portuguese Water Dogs are bred to be water retrievers, which means they have a natural instinct to carry things in their mouth. This behavior can transfer to other activities and can be reinforced through training.
Should you brush a Portuguese Water Dog?
Yes, Portuguese Water Dogs require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and prevent matting.
Are Portuguese water dogs good for first time owners?
Portuguese Water Dogs are generally not recommended for first-time dog owners. They require a lot of attention, training, and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Do Portuguese water dogs need jackets?
Portuguese Water Dogs have a thick, water-resistant coat that provides adequate protection against cold weather. However, if the weather is extremely cold, a jacket may be necessary.
How often should I bathe my Portuguese Water Dog puppy?
Portuguese Water Dog puppies only need to be bathed every few months, or as needed. Over-bathing can strip their coats of natural oils.
How cold is too cold for Portuguese Water Dog?
Portuguese Water Dogs can tolerate cold weather, but extreme cold temperatures can be dangerous. A good rule of thumb is to limit outdoor exposure when the temperature falls below freezing.
What should I feed my Portuguese Water Dog?
Portuguese Water Dogs thrive on a balanced diet of high-quality dog food.
Why does my Portuguese Water Dog bark so much?
Portuguese Water Dogs are known to be vocal dogs, but excessive barking can be a sign of boredom or anxiety. Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and calm.
How do I keep my Portuguese Water Dog busy?
Portuguese Water Dogs are highly active and intelligent dogs, so providing them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation is key. This can include daily walks, swimming, playing fetch, and training sessions.
How does Portuguese Water Dog behave?
Portuguese Water Dogs are known to be loyal, loving, and energetic dogs. They love to be with their family and are often described as being very social and outgoing. They are also highly trainable and can excel in a variety of activities, such as obedience, agility, and water sports.
What dogs hate water the most?
While it can vary from dog to dog, some breeds that are not typically fond of water include the Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, Greyhound, and Afghan Hound.
Are Portuguese Water Dogs mischievous?
Portuguese Water Dogs are highly intelligent and energetic dogs, which can sometimes lead to mischief. However, with proper training and plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, they can make well-behaved and obedient pets.
How do you tire out a Portuguese Water Dog?
Portuguese Water Dogs require a lot of physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. This can include daily walks, swimming, playing fetch, and training sessions. Puzzle toys and other interactive toys can also be helpful in keeping them entertained and mentally stimulated.
What breed of dog can not swim?
While most dogs are capable swimmers, there are some breeds that are not well-suited for swimming due to their body shape and size. These breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, and Dachshunds.
What dogs love water most?
Some breeds that are known for their love of water include the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and Irish Water Spaniel.
Which dogs hate rain?
While it can vary from dog to dog, some breeds that are not typically fond of rain include the Chihuahua, Greyhound, and Whippet.
Do Portuguese Water Dogs Make Good Pets?
Yes, Portuguese Water Dogs can make great pets for the right family. They are intelligent, loyal, and highly trainable, but they do require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They also require regular grooming to maintain their unique coat.
References
| International Bodies | Internet Links |
| American Kennel Club | https://www.akc.org/ |
| United Kennel Club | https://www.ukcdogs.com/ |
| Fédération Cynologique Internationale | https://www.fci.be/ |
| Portuguese Water Dog Club of America | https://pwdca.org/ |
| Canadian Kennel Club | https://www.ckc.ca/ |
| Kennel Club (UK) | https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/ |
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