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Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs were used to herd fish into nets, pull fishing nets from the water, retrieve lost tackle, and carry messages between boats.  Their coats are profuse, providing insulation against cold water.

Breed Category

Working Dog

Temperament

These dogs are cheerful, energetic creatures, but they can be stubborn.

Appearance

Elegant dogs that are black or dark brown, Portuguese Water Dogs are sometimes mistaken for Poodles.  Their single coats are thick and wavy, and although the tail is often trimmed, a plume remains at the end, which enables it to float when in the water.  They have well-muscled shoulders and long, deep chests.  The domed head is reasonably small and the face finely chiseled.  The dog pictured here sports the "lion" clip, popular for this breed.

Size:    Height at withers 17-23 in

Weight:    35-60 lbs  

Exercise Requirements:    Considerable

Grooming Requirements:    Considerable

Life Expectancy:    12-14 years

Things to Consider

1. This breed can be challenging to train.

2. Excessive barking can be a problem.

 

 

 

Source

Information taken from "DOGS: An Owner's Guide"

Writer and Editor: Helen Stillwell

Photo taken from www.akc.org