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Portuguese Water Dog Breed Profile

The Portuguese Water Dog is an intelligent, hard working dog that was bred to help fishermen. They generally get along well with other dogs but should be socialized when young for other pets. If at all possible, they need plenty of exercise and if there can be water involved, you have a happy dog. They are said to love children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Portuguese Water Dog is 16 to 22 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 35 to 55 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Portuguese Water Dog is no exception. Be on the lookout for skin conditions, Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Portuguese Water Dog has a profuse, heavy coat of either curly or wavy hair. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

Life Span

The Portuguese Water Dog can live between 10 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Portuguese Water Dog comes from Portugal where they were used to herd fish for fishermen. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1983.

About the Author

Get more info and advice on the Portuguese Water Dog or a full list of dog breeds at this Dog Behaviour website.

Questions & Answers about Portuguese Water Dog

How can I stop my Portuguese Water Dog from snapping / bitting me?

Two questions:

1. Is this a puppy?

Biting and mouthing are normal puppy behaviors, and something that every puppy has to learn are not acceptable. Honestly, your best option would be to enroll your dog in a "Puppy Kindergarten" type of class, in which your dog will not only learn socialization skills, but a trainer will also be able to show you several methods to stop thi behavior. I've learned that it's just to hard to try to explain the steps involved in this type of forum -- much easier to have someone show you!

2. By "snapping", do you mean agressively trying to bite? i.e. is this behvior preceded by growling/showing teeth? When does it occur? A dog should *never* snap at its owner, even when you are reaching for a toy/chewie/food, etc. This is a very serious problem, and one that -- again -- you should seek a trainer in your area to help you with.

Honestly, the best option in any behavioral problem situation is to get training help -- whether this is through books or classes. Check your area vet clinics or PetsMart/PetCo for class information. You may also have a local dog training club in your area that offers classes for a cheaper price than a store.

Not much help, but hopefully a good place to start. Good luck!

Help with allergic reaction to my Portuguese Water Dog?

I am allergic to dogs, horses and cats – all to varying degrees. I am much better with a Poodle than a Lab, etc. So, my wife and I bought a Portuguese Water Dog (Rio) because they have hair that must be cut, not fur that sheds. Supposedly, PWD's are good for people with allergies like mine. Well, turns out I am a bit allergic to the pooch. After an hour or two, my breathing is less than optimal when I am around Rio. My arms broke out a bit after petting him, but that seems better right now in that I am not breaking out (maybe I am getting used to him). Does anyone have any suggestions? What if we brush him more, could that reduce dander? Is there a good shampoo out there?

My family has raised/showed/bred Portuguese Water Dogs my whole life. PWD's do NOT have any dander in their fur, which is why they do not shed (although they do loose a some hair just like people). However, you may be allergic to its saliva. When your arms broke out after petting Rio, had Rio licked your arms? Many people think that PWD's are non-allergenic because they don't shed, but don't realize that people can also be allergic to dog saliva. You may want to look into this and get tested by a doctor. I hope that you are able to work it out because PWD's are tryuly amazing pets!!!Good luck!

Portuguese Water Dog - A You Tube Video

Owning a Portuguese Water Dog

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