Chances are you are unfamiliar with this type of pup, but once you learn about it, you’ll likely want one for yourself! Not only are Portuguese water dogs beautiful, but they’re also a fairly rare breed, so they’re also extremely unique-head turners at the dog park!
These poodle-like dogs have fluffy, wavy locks that beg to be petted and win competitions with ease. Though beautiful, their hair is slightly high maintenance in that it grows continually and requires regular brushing and clipping. If that doesn’t bother you, strongly consider one as a pet, because that’s about the only downside to these dogs.
Where They Got their Name
The Portuguese Water Dog has roots in the Algarve region of Portugal, where they were bred and taught originally to herd fish into fishermen’s nets, to retrieve overboard items, and to act as couriers from ship to ship or ship to shore. Strong swimmers, these animals rode on fishing boats regularly and worked the waters of the Atlantic from Portugal to the coast of Iceland.
Why They’re Great Pets
Where to start? They’re bred as work dogs, so they’re attentive and loyal to their masters. You’ll often find them sitting at their master’s side waiting on their next command. They’re easily trained and make excellent companions because they are loving, intelligent and surprisingly independent given their dedication to their master. Friendly with strangers, they love a good scratching or rubbing and welcome anybody and everybody who’s willing to show them some love.
While they have a history of working on the water, many people have adopted them as service dogs or therapy dogs for the hearing impaired, for assistance with mobility and as emergency responders. They’re a popular breed for this work because they learn so quickly and can remember complex commands.
They prefer to be engaged at all times, mostly with their alpha master, but any human will successfully make them happy pups with a little attention. This is not a breed you want to be alone, indoor or outdoor, for long periods of time. They need regular exercise, mentally and physically, and are not good dogs for the lazy, unless the lazy would like to become more active.
Lastly, these dogs are considered hypo-allergenic and shed minimally, which is a homeowner’s dream for a pet! Though there’s no dog that doesn’t shed, the Portuguese Water Dog is about as close as you get.
Sold on adopting one of these sweet dogs? We are. You may pay a pretty penny, but given all the wonderful traits of these dogs, if you’re a good fit for its temperament, it’ll be well worth the purchase.
