This dog breed clearly originates from Portugal and it is part of the well-known water dogs that were used for hunting in water places. This particular dog was used by Portuguese sailors to go on boats and do some work. It is a fairly old dog that has been highly appreciated for its qualities.
Let's get to know the Portuguese Water Dog breed, which even today is still very important in the Portuguese country. It is a dog that stands out for its great character for work and also for its beautiful coat. It is an intelligent and active animal that can be perfect for families.
History of the Portuguese Water Dog
This type of dog came in the XNUMXth century from central Asia, transported by the Berbers and centuries later by the Arabs. These dogs arrived in Portugal and so surprised the inhabitants with these innate swimming skills that they became essential. These dogs were very good at swimming in the water, they were agile and had a lot of endurance, so the sailors began to take them on their boats to collect nets, catch objects or even to pass messages from one boat to another.
The history of this dog has been closely linked to the work of sailors. They were also good at warning of the presence of other boats on foggy days. In the XNUMXth century, with the improvement of boats, these dogs began to be discontinued, which almost led to the extinction of the breed. The shipping company Vasco Bensuado was the one in charge of keeping the breed alive. Today it is not a really popular dog, but it is known in Portugal and also in the United States, where it was brought years ago.
Dog characteristics
This dog is medium in size, weighing between 16 and 27 kilograms, with a height between 43 and 47 centimeters. This dog has a fairly strong body, with a deep, wide chest and strong but agile legs. It has a good-sized head and a tapering muzzle.
El fur of this dog it is one of its main physical characteristics. They can have long or short hair. Those with short hair have it much denser and those with long hair have a softer and lustrous coat. Its colors are black, white or brown, with some combinations between them. It is one of those dogs that are considered hypoallergenic because they do not lose their hair. They have an undercoat of fur that protects them.
Character of the Portuguese Water Dog
This dog has been an animal used to work for generations. This is evident in the great activity you have, since you need to do that exercise and expend the energy you had for work. It is a really active dog that has to do sports on a daily basis. The Portuguese Water Dog tends to have an independent character, and therefore they do not need constant attention. However, this does not mean that they do not enjoy the company of their owners, since they do need this approach.
These dogs are really smart and therefore they are going to need to use these qualities. They are perfect for sports such as agility or to play games that are intelligence. These types of stimuli will be good for that intelligence, since they need to exercise it as well.
It is a very happy dog, which it will enjoy in the company of its own. If you socialize from a young age you can have with other dogs and cats, as they show good character. But certain tendency to hunt it can cause them to try to chase other animals. If they educate themselves very early, we will not have these kinds of problems.
Dog care
One of the main care that should be provided to this dog has to do with its coat. His hair is curly or wavy. In short-haired dogs, care is simpler, but in long-haired dogs it may be more complicated. You have to know how to use tools for this type of hair, or go find a canine groomer to help us with this complicated coat. Long hair may have to be cut, but both coats need to be combed almost daily.
Another of the fundamental care of this animal consists of help you do daily activities. These animals have to do sports every day. You have to take them for a walk or a run. It is also good to take them to places where they can swim from time to time, as it is something they like to do naturally.
This dog must also be educated from the first months of life. They are docile dogs that also enjoy learning and do not need many repetitions. But they like to be active and have fun, so we can always teach them things in an active context, with positive education.
Portuguese Water Dog Health
The Portuguese Water Dog is a fairly healthy breed. Periodic check-ups must be carried out and he must also be provided with adequate food for his rhythm of life and activity. However, this type of dog can suffer from a disease such as hip dysplasia. There are other types of diseases that can affect you at times, such as alopecia or progressive retinal atrophy. In all cases, it is best to go to the vet to do check-ups or if we see that there is any change in the dog. With a good diet and daily exercise the dog will be in perfect condition.
Why have a Portuguese Water Dog
These types of dogs are very cheerful, affectionate and intelligent. It is a perfect breed for many people and for families. They adapt well to all types of environments, although we must always take into account the needs that the dog is going to have, such as regular daily sports. They are dogs that can also enjoy being in open places. It is better not to have them if they are only going to be in a small apartment. Do you know this breed from Portugal?