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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, they are a swimmer and diver of exceptional ability. Fits well into many types of lifestyles, they are usually a quiet dog who only barks when they are on watchdog duty. Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent, energetic dogs. They are self-willed but obedient to their owners.
Other Names: Cao de Agua
Height: 16 - 22 inches
Weight: 35 - 55 lbs.
Colors: Solid black, white, or various shades of brown.
Coat: Profuse and thick except under forelegs and thighs.
Temperament: Portuguese Water Dogs are obedient, friendly
With Children: Yes, very good with children but they may have difficulty obeying them as they see them as equals.
With Pets: Yes, usually accepts other pets but may be territorial or jealous.
Special Skills: Fisherman's working dog and family pet.
Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: High
Care: Regular brushing and combing of their coat. Weekly cleaning of their ears, especially after swimming. Portuguese Water Dogs need ample exercise which should consist of free exercise, daily walks or swimming.
Training: Portuguese Water Dogs like to work and are easy to train, they thrive in obedience training. Consistent training with the right tone of voice as they are very sensitive.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - High, Problem-Solving - High
Activity: High
Living Environment: A home with a fenced yard as they are an active dog. The owner of a Portuguese Water Dog needs to take time to exercise, socialize and train them.
Health Issues: Progressive retinal atrophy, storage disease, hip dysplasia and skin condition.
Life Span: 10 - 14 years
Litter Size: 4 - 8
Country of Origin: Portugal
History: Known in Portugal as the Cao de Agua which means "dog of water" they are a very old breed that originates from the province of Algarve in Portugal. They were used by the fisherman to help set nets, herd schools of fish and to carry messages between boats.
First Registered by the AKC: 1983
AKC Group: Sporting Group
Class: Gundog
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 8), KC (GB), UKC
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