PORTUGUESE WATER DOG: ANCIENT BREED OF FISHERMAN'S DOG

The Portuguese Water Dog is an ancient breed of fisherman's dog that has been used as a message bearer, a rabbiter, and for pulling nets through the water.  it is a strong and loyal breed that is naturally suspicious.  The fashion cut of the breed was originally there to prevent its hind legs from dragging while swimming, and to protect its chest from thermal shock in cold water (Bruce Fogle, DVM, Dogalog).

APPEARANCE

The Portuguese Water Dog can be white, brown, black, black and white, or brown and white.  It has a large domed head and a deep chest with long, well sprung ribs.  It has long legs from the hocks down.  Its long wavy hair requires frequent grooming, whether its single coat is long or short.  Its hair is clipped for work or showing, and the plume of its hair permits the tail to float (Fogle, Dogalog). 

BREED HISTORY

The ancestors of the Portuguese Water Dog arrived in Portugal either in the 400s with Visigoths from Central Europe, or in the 700s with Moors from North Africa.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Portuguese Water Dog is suitable for hot sunny climates, and is easy to obedience train.  He requires a great deal of physical exercise, and is a good watchdog.  He weighs from 35 to 55 pounds (16-25kg) and stands from 17 to 22 1/2 inches tall (43-57 cm).  His life expectancy is from 12 to 14 years.