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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a muscular, medium-sized dog with a variety of coats.
They vary from flat, wavy and shiny, to a thick, open curl and to a tight curl.
Some breeds have their face and rear shaved while others clip the coat to about
one inch all over. The coat comes in black or brown with white markings or silver
or gray. The single-layered coat is non-shedding and virtually hypo-allergenic.
The large head is broad on top with a pronounced stop occiput. The ears are shaped
like hearts and hang down low but not beyond the upper jaw. The eyes are dark and
the teeth meet in a scissor-like bite. The topline is straight and level. The legs
are strong with webbed toes. This breed has more webbing between the toes than many
other breeds, aiding them while swimming. The tail tapers to the tip with a slight
feathering and is curved above the back.
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Temperament
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The PWD is a lively and loyal dog that loves the water. He is affectionate, loving
and gets along well with children and other dogs. They should be socialized with
cats so that they can live harmoniously with them. They are quick to learn and understand
instructions well. Watch the tone of your voice as they are very sensitive to it.
They need a consistent owner who will not let the dog outthink them. They are calm,
have great stamina and are very willing to please. They make great watchdogs and
have an excellent sense of humor. The puppies in this breed are constant chewers.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 20-22" ; Weight: 42-55 lbs.
Female Height: 17-20" ; Weight: 35-49 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is prone to hip dysplasia and PRA. This breed should be tested for GM-1
Storage Disease before they are six months old.
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Living Conditions
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This breed will do fine living in an apartment if they get enough exercise. They
would do great spending their days in the yard and their evenings with their family.
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Exercise
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They make excellent jogging companions as they are very active dogs. They need both
physical and mental exercise. They love to retrieve sticks and balls from the water.
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Life Expectancy
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About 10-14 years
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Grooming
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The coat of the PWD should be brushed or combed daily. This breed sheds little or
no hair and is good for allergy sufferers. They have a slow growing coat.
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Origin
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For centuries, the Portuguese fishermen of the Algarve area have found these dogs
to be indispensable. Their great swimming ability and webbed feet enabled them to
take messages between boats and to aid the villagers in handling the nets in the
water, as well as "herding" the fish into the nets. They caught any fish that escaped
the nets. They also acted as foghorns, barking continuously to warn others of the
boat's presence. They are recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Working, UKC Gun Dog
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