"Dory"

The Portuguese Water Dog (PWD) is an old breed originally bred in the Algarve, Portugal. A web-footed swimmer and diver, he worked alongside the fishermen helping to set nets, retrieve fishing gear, herd schools of fish, carry messages between boats, and perform guard and rescue work when necessary.  This amazing dog is even said to be able to shinny up a rope like any other member of the crew! Known as the "Cao de Agua" or "dog of water" in his homeland, the PWD stands up to 22 inches tall at the shoulder. The PWD's coat is thick and curly or wavy, non-shedding, and comes in black, white, shades of brown, or black or brown with white.

Noted for his intelligence and loyalty, the Portuguese Water Dog is spirited, friendly, and obedient to his owner. Their retrieving instinct is strong, and many owners report that their dogs will often bring them a present or toy when they come home. PWDs are very attached to their owners and do not stray far from their sides, inside or out. Used to working closely with their masters, a PWD is not happy if left alone for long periods of time. He lives to work and is easy to train. However, he is also strong and self-willed and may not be as obedient with other members of the family, especially children. As his name suggests, he loves water, and enjoys swimming regularly. Like many dogs who lost their original jobs to mechanization, the PWD was replaced as the fisherman's partner by commercial fishing equipment. As a result, by the 1970s, there were only 25 left in the world. Thanks to dedicated attention by breeders to selective breeding programs, these wonderful companions have made a comeback, and there are now more than 10,000 registered in the USA alone. An active working breed with exceptional stamina, the PWD needs regular exercise including walks, swimming, and off-leash running. A home with a fenced yard is essential. The Portuguese Water Dog enjoys obedience training and should be placed in training and socialized from an early age. He makes an excellent watch and guard dog as he can be territorial and has a loud and distinctive bark.

Mari Szauerzopf
RR#1  Moffat, ON   L0P 1J0
519-824-3133 home
519-993-1108 cell
mari@pwdcc.org