The Portuguese Water Dog is an excellent swimmer and diver, originally used on the coast of Portugal to guard ships and help with fishing. It is characterized by its high intelligence, robustness and friendliness. The Portuguese Water Dog gets on well with children due to its cheerful nature and is a popular companion dog for families.
Content: Portuguese Water Dog
- profile
- Special features
- Nutrition
- Health and care
- Origin & History
- The right accessories
- Conclusion
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Portuguese Water Dog - Profile
- Character: Intelligence, obedient, lively
- Size: Medium to large
- Height: 43-57cm
- Weight: 16-27 kg
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Coat type: Long curly or wavy
- Colour: Black, white and brown in various shades
- Special features: Also known as the Portuguese Water Dog, has a water-repellent coat and was traditionally a helper of fishermen
- FCI Group: Water Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog - Special Characteristics
The Portuguese Water Dog is first of all characterized by its imposing stature. Its coat is usually long, curly or wavy and deep black, which is typical for this breed of dog. The long hair extends evenly over the dog's body. Although the majority of Portuguese Water Dogs have black fur, there is also a wide variety in terms of coat color. You can find specimens in black, brown, white and even bicolor variants. The character traits of the Portuguese Water Dog are often described differently. While some people perceive them as quarrelsome or stubborn, others report an extremely obedient and adaptable nature. It is important to remember that dogs have individual personalities and it is difficult to predict which character traits will be most pronounced in a particular dog. The training and care of the Portuguese Water Dog plays a crucial role. Early and consistent training, combined with sufficient mental and physical exercise, can help to make them a balanced companion. If these needs are not met, he can appear restless and unbalanced, similar to an under-stimulated child. Due to his highly developed sensory perception, the Cão De Água Português is extremely versatile and can enjoy a variety of activities. This breed is often used as a therapy and rescue dog, and, as the name suggests, he particularly enjoys swimming.
Portuguese Water Dog - What should be considered regarding nutrition?
The Portuguese Water Dog has similar nutritional requirements to other dog breeds, with an emphasis on sugar- and grain-free food with a high meat content. Portion sizes should be adjusted according to the dog's physical activity and energy needs to avoid being overweight or underweight. Allergies should be discussed with a veterinarian who can recommend the ideal food.
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Portuguese Water Dog - Health and Care
Caring for the long fur of the Cão De Água Português is very time-consuming and requires a considerable amount of time. You should brush the fur thoroughly with a comb and brush at least twice a week. In summer, the fur should be trimmed or shaved regularly, which can also be done at home with a high-quality clipper. For show dogs, the so-called "lion cut" is mandatory. Make sure to always trim the fur between the Portie's claws, as long fur can cause painful awns to get caught there. The hair in the ears should also be plucked regularly.
Portuguese Water Dog - Origin & History
The Portuguese Water Dog, as the name suggests, comes from Portugal, more specifically from the beautiful Algarve. There, it was indispensable for fishermen, as it surrounded schools of fish, guarded them and retrieved escaped fish. In addition, it served as a communicator between fishermen and pointed out broken nets or dangers such as dry land or sandbanks.
It is reported that the Portuguese Water Dog worked on ships in pre-Christian times, carrying messages from one ship to another. However, in the 20th century, with the advance of industrialization, the Portuguese Water Dog lost importance for fishing and by the 1970s it had become the rarest breed of dog in the world, with only 50 specimens remaining.
Portuguese Water Dog - The right accessories
As mentioned, the Portuguese Water Dog needs all kinds of tools for grooming its coat. A narrow, wide-toothed comb and a brush are necessary for detangling the coat. You also need a quality clipper. This should also be able to work through your Portie's curly hair.
In addition to grooming equipment, the Cão De Água Português can never get enough of activities. In addition to a selection of long and short leashes of your choice, training gadgets are always a good idea. Clickers and various search and activity games are very popular. There should also always be enough retrieving items such as dummies and balls.
Conclusion
The Portuguese Water Dog is a versatile and intelligent dog that is well suited to active families and individuals. Originally bred as a fishing dog in Portugal, they are talented swimmers and excellent water sports companions. Their coats require regular and extensive grooming, especially in long-haired varieties. This breed is known for their energy and love of work, whether it be retrieving or water work. With consistent training and enough exercise, they become loyal and loving to their owners.
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