Description

The Portuguese Water Dog is a seafaring breed and was prized by fishermen in Portugal for being a spirited, yet obedient in nature dog. A web-footed dog Portuguese Water Dog is a swimmer and diver of exceptional ability. The Portuguese Water Dog fits well into many types of lifestyles, Portuguese Water Dog is usually a quiet dog who only barks when he is on watchdog duty. An intelligent, energetic dog they are self-willed but obedient to his owners.

Size of Male: Height: 20-23 inches Weight: 42-60 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 17-21 inches Weight: 35-50 pounds

Temperament

The Portuguese Water Dog is a water-loving, lively but sensible, and loyal dog. Portuguese Water Dog is affectionate and fun to be around. Portuguese Water Dog is excellent with children and usually gets along with other dogs and pets without any problems. They need to get to know cats so that the company of them will also cause no problems. It has a stable, pleasant temperament. Brave, highly intelligent and trainable; keen to work and quick to learn and understand instructions. Training these dogs is not difficult if you understand the dog’s character. They are very sensitive to the tone of your voice. Alternate training and play, and bear in mind that this extremely intelligent dog will take liberties if you think you can just fit a bit of training in when it suits you. Make sure you are consistent. This breed may out-think its owner! Generally willing to please, this is an obedient dog. Spirited, with great stamina, yet calm. Portuguese Water Dogs have a super sense of humor and love to be in the spotlight of attention. They make good watchdogs. Dominance, barking, and indoor activity level varies greatly with the individual. They have a very good sense of smell. Suitable for agility skills trials and numerous other dog sports. Portuguese Water Dog puppies are notorious chewers.

Living Conditions

The Portuguese Water Dog will be okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Portuguese Water Dog is moderately active indoors and a small yard will be sufficient. Portuguese Water Dog can live outdoors in temperate climates, but would be much happier living close to its family and spending days in the yard. Do make sure that they have enough  exercise when in an apartment to healthy.

Upkeep

Portuguese Water Dog needs daily physical and mental exercise, preferably involving swimming and retrieving. Otherwise, Portuguese Water Dog needs a long walk or jog or a vigorous romp. The Portuguese Water Dog can live outdoors in temperate climates, but it is generally happier living close to its family and spending days in the yard. Its coat needs combing every other day, plus monthly clipping or scissoring.

Health

Major concerns: progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia

Minor concerns: glycogen storage disease, distichiasis

Life expectancy: 10 – 14 years