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Portuguese Water Dog Facts
- Group
- Working
- Affiliations
- AKC, CKC, UKC
- Height
- 17" - 23"
- Weight
- 35-60 lbs.
- Lifespan
- 12 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
cao de agua, Portguese fishing dog, cao de agua de pelo ondulado(long-haired), Cao de agua de pelo encaradolado (curly coated)
Origin
The Portuguese water dog originated in Portugal.
Date Of Origin
This breed developed in the Middle ages. It is believed that their ancestors arrived in Portugal in the 400's.
History
Portuguese water dogs have played an important part in the Portuguese fishing industry for centuries. The dogs were used to herd fish, retrieve lines, and deliver messages from boat to boat. With the decline of fishing in the beginning of the twentieth century, the breed came close to extinction but was saved by a wealthy fancier. It is now a popular companion throughout the world.
Description
This is a sturdy, medium-size dog. It has a strong, broad head, the skull slightly longer than the muzzle. The eyes and broad nose are brown or black and the drop ears are heart shaped. The feet are webbed and covered with hair and the tail is medium length. The single coat may be wavy or curly and is kept in a lion or working clip. The coat may be black, white, brown, or a combination of these colors.
Temperament
The Portuguese water dog is biddable and intelligent. It is devoted to family and has great endurance. It is spirited and courageous. It loves the water and is an excellent swimmer.
Uses
For centuries, members of this breed have lived on the boats of Portuguese fisherman. They are ably swimmers and can be taught to catch and bring back in there mouth fish that escape from the net. They are also useful at catching ropes and other objects thrown from boats toward the shore. They are also used as guard and companion dogs. Because they spend so much time in the water, they often become prematurely deaf.
Health Concerns
Addison?s disease, cancer, cardiac problems, eye problems, gastrointestinal disease, hip dysplasia, skin allergies, renal disease.
Additional Information
This dog requires consistent, professional grooming. before purchasing a Portuguese water dog, be sure you are ready for the financial responsibility that this brings.
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
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