Description: Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog, originally bred to assist fishermen along Portugal's coast, is a medium-sized, robust, and intelligent breed known for its swimming and diving capabilities. Recognized for their curly, waterproof coat and webbed feet, these dogs excel in water-related tasks and are adept at retrieving broken nets or lost gear. They possess a spirited and adventurous personality, making them an excellent companion for active families. Although they are highly trainable, their strong-willed nature requires consistent and patient training. With a friendly disposition towards children and other pets, Portuguese Water Dogs make a lively and affectionate addition to any home.
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Properties
The Portuguese Water Dog is a breed of working dog as unique as its name suggests. Historically bred to aid fishermen along the coast of Portugal, these dogs are characterized by their robust energy, intelligence, and an unmistakable wavy or curly coat that makes them a standout. This breed was not only used to herd fish into nets but also to act as couriers from ship to shore. This points to their extraordinary swimming ability, a trait that is still evident and admired in the breed today.
The physical properties of the Portuguese Water Dog include a medium-sized frame, typically weighing between 35 to 60 pounds with a height of about 17 to 23 inches at the shoulder. They possess webbed feet, which are ideal for swimming. Their coat, which is either curly or wavy, does not shed as heavily as other breeds, making them an excellent option for those with allergies. This characteristic comes from the breed’s hypoallergenic nature. The coat can be kept in a 'lion cut' or a 'retriever cut', where the lion cut leaves the rear half of the body shaved and the retriever cut keeps the coat at a uniform length.
When it comes to temperament, the Portuguese Water Dog is known for its high-spirited and sociable nature. They are eager to please and highly trainable, responding well to obedience training. They are excellent with children and usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Their high energy levels and intelligent minds mean they require regular, vigorous exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from becoming bored and potentially destructive.
The breed’s robust health generally sees them enjoying a lifespan of 11 to 13 years. Common health issues in the breed include genetic disorders such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. Prospective owners should ensure they obtain their pets from reputable breeders who conduct thorough health screenings. Moreover, their strong loyalty and protective instincts make them not only faithful companions but also effective watchdogs.
Overall, the Portuguese Water Dog is a versatile, loving, and intelligent breed making them suitable for a variety of roles, from working dog to family companion. Their unique attributes and striking appearance are complemented by a joyful disposition that endears them to many.
Appearance
Portuguese Water Dogs, affectionately known as 'Porties' or 'PWDs', are robust, athletic dogs known for their distinctive, curly, and waterproof coats. Originally bred to aid fishermen along the coasts of Portugal, these dogs carry distinct traits that make them both hardworking and charming companions.
The most striking feature of the Portuguese Water Dog is their coat, which can be either curly or wavy. The curly variety features compact, cylindrical curls, while the wavy type displays gently falling waves, giving each dog a unique but unmistakably lush appearance. Their coats are single-layered and do not shed, making them a popular choice for people with allergies. Typically, the coat comes in black, white, various shades of brown, or combinations of black or brown with white. The texture is similar to that of wool, enabling these dogs to spend long periods in cold water without chilling.
Portuguese Water Dogs are medium-sized, with a well-proportioned body that exhibits strength and power. Males typically stand at about 20 to 23 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 42 to 60 pounds, whereas females are slightly smaller, generally standing around 17 to 21 inches and weighing 35 to 50 pounds. They have a broad head with a slightly longer-than-wide muzzle, robust jaw, and expressive, round black or brown eyes that give them an alert, intelligent gaze. Their ears are heart-shaped and hang down alongside the head, enhancing their friendly and approachable look.
Their body is as energetic as it looks; these dogs have a muscular build with a broad chest and a robust, tapered tail, which serves as a rudder when swimming. The breed is known for its 'clownish' demeanor, particularly in their joyful interactions and an energetic display of affection. Despite their work-oriented lineage, they carry a distinct elegance in their stride, reflecting both their endurance and agility.
Overall, the Portuguese Water Dog's appearance is a balance of functional attributes and aesthetic appeal. Their adaptable, water-resistant coat, combined with a sturdy body built for swimming and retrieving, defines their heritage as a working breed, while their charming personality and intelligent eyes reflect a dog that is as much about companionship as it is about utility.
History
The Portuguese Water Dog, known in its native land as 'Cão de Água Português', boasts a rich and storied history closely tied to the coastal communities of Portugal. This breed's origins are somewhat nebulous, but it is believed to have descended from dogs that were indigenous to the Iberian Peninsula, with historical connections that possibly date back thousands of years. Known for their robust swimming ability, these dogs were impeccably bred and trained to assist fishermen.
During the height of Portugal's fishing industry, the Portuguese Water Dog was an invaluable asset to fishermen. They performed a myriad of tasks including herding fish into nets, retrieving lost gear, and acting as couriers from ship to shore. Their webbed feet and water-resistant coat made them uniquely suited for these tasks, allowing them to excel in the often harsh conditions of the Atlantic waters. The dogs were also known for their loyal and spirited disposition, making them perfect companions during the isolated, long fishing trips.
As technology progressed in the 20th century, the need for canine help in fishing tasks diminished, leading to a decline in the breed's population. By the 1930s, the Portuguese Water Dog was nearing extinction. The breed's salvation came largely through the efforts of a wealthy Portuguese businessman and dog enthusiast, Vasco Bensaude, who took it upon himself to revive the breed. Bensaude's breeding program, based on a careful selection of specimens, was pivotal in maintaining the breed's characteristics and boosting its numbers.
The revival efforts bore fruit, and by the 1950s and 1960s, the Portuguese Water Dog began gaining recognition outside of Portugal. The breed was introduced to the United States in the late 1960s, and by 1983, it was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club. Since then, the breed has become popular internationally, not only as working dogs but also as family pets and show dogs. They were further popularized by notable figures such as former U.S. President Barack Obama, who owned two Portuguese Water Dogs named Bo and Sunny, due to their hypoallergenic qualities.
Today, the Portuguese Water Dog is celebrated for its intelligence, energy, and obedience, making it a favored choice for various canine sports and activities, including agility and obedience competitions. Its affectionate nature and loyalty make it a cherished companion in homes around the world.