ADDITIONAL PORTUGUESE WATER DOG PICTURES
Family:
Breed Group: Gun Dog, AKC Working
Origin: Portugal
Date of Origin: 14th century
Originally used for: Fishing, herding
Used today: Companion, sporting, water rescue, agility
Other Name(s): Caode Agua
History of the Breed:
The Portuguese water dog likely descended from the long-coated water dogs owned by the ancient Iberians. Centuries later, these dogs were bred
by Portuguese fisherman. These working dogs were used by fisherman to send messages between boats, to retrieve fish, nets, fishermen, and other
articles from the water, and to guard the fishing boats. The Portuguese water dog almost became extinct in the early 20th century when commercial
fishing equipment replaced the need for a working fishing dog.
General Appearance: A medium sized athletic breed. The head is large, with a skull that is broad and slightly longer than the muzzle.
The muzzle is wider at the base than at the nose. The dark medium sized eyes are set well apart. The ears are thin and heart shaped and held
close to the head. The black nose is broad with well flared nostrils. The athletic body is slightly longer than it is tall and has a broad and
deep chest reaching down to the elbow. The ribs are long and well-sprung and the back is broad and well muscled. The feet are webbed between the toes.
The tail is thick at the base and tapers. The feet and tail are used in swimming and diving. The body is covered in a thick coat of strong hair
that is either curly or wavy.
Height & Weight:
Height 17-23 Inches
Weight 35-55 Pounds
Coat: A thick single coat of water-resistant strong hair, covering the whole body.
There are two coat types:
Curly Coat - Compact, cylindrical curls, somewhat lusterless. The hair on the ears is sometimes wavy.
Wavy Coat - Falling gently in waves with a slight sheen.
Color: Black, brown, white, parti-color, and combinations of black or brown with white.
Grooming needs: High, brushing twice a week, full grooming every 4 - 6 weeks
Temperament of Breed: Craves attention, and wants to be involved in any activity
Friendly with children: Yes
Friendly with other dogs: Yes, with proper socialization starting at an early age.
Suitability as a watchdog: Yes
Exercise Level: High
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Hip dysplasia, PRA - progressive retinal atrophy
Minor:
Life Expectancy: 12-14 Years
2006 AKC Ranking: 69
First Registered by the AKC: 1983
Registries: CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
AKC -American Kennel Club
ANKC -Australian National Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Continental Kennel Club
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
KCGB -Kennel Club of Great Britain
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
The Portuguese Water Dog Club of America, Inc.
The Portuguese Water Dog Club of Great Britain
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