“The Portuguese Water Dog probably shares a number of its ancestry with the Poodle, the consummate water canine. Their ancestors had been herding puppies from the primary Asian steppes, both added to Portugal through the Visigoths in the 5th century or through the Berbers, after which Moors in the 8th century. Once in Portugal, they differentiated themselves through their affinity for water, retrieving lost nets or equipment, herding fish into nets, and serving as boat-to-boat or boat-to-shore couriers. Later the puppies had been a part of trawler crews fishing the waters from Portugal to Iceland. The breed is thought of as Cao de Agua (mentioned Kown-d’Ahgwa), which means canine of water.

They are available in a long-haired variety called the Cao de Agua de Pelo Ondulado and a curly-coated type called the Cao de Agua de Pelo Encaradolado. With the extinction of traditional fishing methods, the Portuguese fishers and their puppies started to vanish from the coast in the early 20th century. The breed became stored primarily through the tries of one man, Dr. Vasco Bensuade, a wealthy shipping magnate. He promoted the breed, and the breed club was reorganized thru his efforts; after a short appearance in England, the breed virtually died out there in the 1950s. Around this time, the primary PWDs got here to America, where they slowly won a following. Their reputation grew quickly, and the breed is now a loving family companion.”

Temperement

The gregarious Portuguese Water Dog is a family-loving, fun-loving, water-loving training dog. They are frequently suitable for children, different dogs, and pets. They may be touchy and reply nicely to directions. They are commonly an excellent breed for an energetic individual trying an adventurous, affectionate, biddable partner.

Upkeep

This is an energetic breed that requires daily physical and mental exercise, ideally involving swimming and retrieving. Otherwise, they want a long stroll or jog or an energetic playtime. Their coat wishes brushing every alternate day, plus monthly expert grooming.

Health

“Major diagnosis: PRA
Minor diagnosis: GM1 storage disease, distichiasis, Addison’s, CHD, juvenile cardiomyopathy, hair loss (follicular dysplasia)
Occasionally seen: irritable bowel syndrome, seizures
Suggested tests: eye, hip, DNA for GM1, DNA for PRA, (cardiac)
Life span: 10–14 years”

Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.