The Portuguese
Water Dog (also known as Cao de Agua) is classified in the
AKC (American Kennel Club) as part of the
working group.
Breed Standard (Portuguese
Water Dog Club of America, Inc)
Originating in Asia, when the Portuguese Water Dog's ancestors were
brought into Europe it was believed they developed into various dogs:
In Germany, they became the Poodle; in Ireland, they became the Irish
Water Spaniel. In Portugal, they were put to work in the water to herd
fish into nets, and became the Portuguese Water Dog.
The hardworking, seaworthy history of Portuguese Water Dogs shows up
in the breed of today. The dog is adaptable to any living
situation-city or country-as long as he gets enough exercise. He is
loaded with energy and doesn't tire easily. He is highly trainable,
and water, of course, is his favorite place to play.
After the AKC
officially recognized them in 1984, their popularity grew more
rapidly; the breed is now proving itself as a great family companion.
Form and
Function
The Portuguese Water Dog is a robust dog of medium build, slightly
longer than it is tall. It is
strong and well muscled, able to work both in and out of the water for
long periods.
The Portuguese
Water Dog has a thick, even coat, with no undercoat. It can be either
curly or wavy. It does not shed, but it does require care. Two clips
are standard. The Retriever Clip gives a natural appearance. The coat
is clipped overall to the length of one inch. A plume of long hair is
left at the end of the tail. In the Lion Clip, the middle and
hindquarters of the dog, as well as his muzzle, are clipped short
while his front half (except the face) and tail tip are left a full,
shaggy length. Either clip is acceptable in the show ring. The coat
comes in black, white, brown, or white with black nose, mouth and
eyelids.
Temperament
Portuguese Water Dogs (or PWD’s as they are also known) are
fun-loving, family-loving, water-loving dogs. They are very good with
children, and other dogs and pets. It is sensitive and responds well
to direction. It is a good breed for an active person wanting an
adventurous, demonstrative partner.
The water dog’s
expression is steady, penetrating and attentive, reflecting its
spirited disposition.
Maintenance
The PWD as a
spirited, robust swimmer and diver
needs daily physical and mental exercise, preferably involving
swimming and retrieving. Otherwise, it needs a long walk or jog or a
vigorous romp. The Portuguese Water Dog can live outdoors in temperate
climates, but it is generally happier living close to its family and
spending days in the yard. Its coat needs combing every other day,
plus monthly clipping or scissoring.
Health
The Portuguese Water Dog is overall a very healthy, robust, family
companion. But as in humans, and certainly all breeds of dogs, there
are some health problems. Medical concerns we do face are:
