Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dog: hard-working, energetic, inquisitive dog. Perfect for people who lead an active lifestyle. But not suitable for those who are often absent. After all, it always needs a master nearby. If the dog spends a lot of time alone, it can spoil its mood and character. Very quickly become attached to the owner and are always ready to follow him.

Breed Photos

Origin History

It is a very ancient breed of dog that originated in the Asian steppes around 700 B.C. Originally, the dog was used by fishermen and drove fish into nets, searched for lost nets, carried messages from ship to ship or overboard. Dogs always accompanied sailors while sailing on the ocean. On the Iberian Peninsula, dogs appeared thanks to the Persians.

On the peninsula, the breed was able to adapt and evolve. The Portuguese Water Dog was used to guard livestock on farms. But soon, in the twentieth century, there were changes, and the breed was on the verge of extinction.

The breed was restored thanks to the Portuguese ship magnate and dog breeder Dr. Vasco Bensuadra. He organized a special club and contributed to the fact that the dogs began to participate in exhibitions. So, soon after that, the first standard was written.

Now the dogs are actively used in the service, police because they demonstrate obedience and working readiness to help. The breeding center of the Portuguese Water Dog remains in the province of Algarve. However, the dogs are also known outside their native country.

Appearance

The Portuguese Water Dog is sturdy, harmonious, with a well-proportioned build. Dogs can reach from 50 to 57 cm, bitches – from 43 to 52 cm. The weight of the dogs is approximately 20 kg. The pet’s head is wide, the cranial parts stand out, the cheekbones are outlined, and the brow arches are visible. The nose with wide nostrils, the lobe is usually dark in color. The eyes are large, of a brown hue. The ears are high set and resemble a rounded triangle in shape. The body has a square shape.

The tail is of medium length. It can be curled into a ring. The coat is thick, voluminous, without an undercoat. Hair curly or wavy. Color can be black, white, brown, with various spots.

Character

Portuguese Water Dog: hard-working, energetic, inquisitive dog. Perfect for people who lead an active lifestyle. But not suitable for those who are often absent. After all, it always needs a master nearby. If the dog spends a lot of time alone, it can spoil its mood and character. Very quickly become attached to the owner and are always ready to follow him. Therefore, distrustful of strangers, always ready to defend their territory and family. Other animals in the house do not conflict, but it is better if they are raised together.

All the time of its existence, the Portuguese Water Dog has helped the man. Therefore, it will constantly need some work. It will willingly train, play with children, and compete with other dogs. The Portuguese Water Dog is a real fidget. If you don’t provide her with constant activity, there is a danger that she will find entertainment on her own.

Care

A pet’s coat requires special attention. Since it hardly sheds itself, it needs to be trimmed from time to time. Otherwise, the dog will have an unkempt appearance. For the dog to always be in good shape, it is always necessary to give him physical exercise. Any sporting game will appeal to them. They can run after a ball, play Frisbee or agility. But don’t forget that the best sport for them is swimming. They will be very happy to spend time in the lake, river or pool near the house.

A dog loves to swim. Therefore, you cannot deny her this. About once every two months, it is recommended to bathe it.

Regularly make sure its ears, eyes, and teeth are clean. And it is important to remember about possible water in the ears when swimming. They should always stay dry and clean.

Training

The Portuguese Water Dog has excellent memory and obedience skills. It is not difficult to train it. Just remember that their playful nature can contribute to them often being bored. Therefore, training should be diluted with games and entertainment.

It’s also important to remember about early socialization – try to introduce your pet to other people and animals from childhood. It is recommended to start training at the age of eight weeks.

Common Diseases

Dogs of this breed are very hardy and have good health. However, they may have problems with the nervous system. They are also characterized by hip dysplasia. White-colored pets can have allergies.

Nutrition

It is recommended to feed natural food, with meat accounting for 40% of the diet. Cereals and vegetables – 30%, fish and dairy products – 30%. An adult dog should be fed three times a day, and care should be taken not to overeat. After all, the Portuguese Water Dog is prone to obesity.