A Portuguese Water Dog is a hypoallergenic dog breed that is literally originally bred in Portugal and loves the water. Hailing from Portugal's Algarve region, they are referred to as a "working dog" by the American Kennel Club (AKC), and you can depend on their obedience and loyalty. From there the breed expanded to all around Portugal's coast, where they were taught to herd fish into fishermen's nets, retrieve lost tackle or broken nets, and act as couriers from ship to ship, or ship to shore. They are considered excellent family members and love the energy of a busy home with children.
The Portuguese Water Dog has webbed feet, like a duck, which makes them excellent natural swimmers. They are very active and would enjoy long days playing with their family in the water. If your family loves the water, then a Portuguese Water Dog is the right choice for you and your family.
Portuguese Water Dogs are also referred to as porties. Porties have a multi-octave bark that is sure to get everyone’s attention. They are known to be quiet dogs but will become protective of their families and will let out exceptionally loud barks.
Main Characteristics of the Portuguese Water Dog or Portie
HEIGHT
17 to 21 inches (female) / 20 to 23 inches (male)
WEIGHT
35 to 50 pounds (female) / 40 to 60 pounds (male)
LIFE SPAN
11 to 13 years
BREED SIZE
medium (26-60 lbs.)
GOOD WITH
Children, seniors, dogs, cats, and families
TEMPERAMENT
friendly outgoing playful
INTELLIGENCE
high
SHEDDING AMOUNT
Infrequent, considered hypoallergenic
EXERCISE NEEDS
high
ENERGY LEVEL
Very high (If you’re training for a competition, then this is your workout partner.)
BARKING LEVEL
when necessary, and loud when needed
DROOL AMOUNT
Very low to none
BREED GROUP
working
COAT LENGTH/TEXTURE
medium curly
COLORS
black
white
brown / chocolate / liver
PATTERNS
bicolor
tricolor
black and tan
OTHER TRAITS
hypoallergenic
easy to train and exceptionally smart like their cousin the poodle
tendency to chew (buy lots of chewy toys and treats)
loves water, loves to swim
apartment-friendly
cold weather tolerant
hot weather tolerant
excellent for first-time pet owners
great hiking companion
If you’re looking for a great Portuguese Water Dog, then visit pupcentral.com today! They offer a wide range of excellent family dogs including, you guessed it, The Portuguese Water Dog.