New Puppies Available Today Under $500 Recently Updated Browse by Breed

Price

State

Breed

Registration

Size

Sex

About This Breed

Dog Group: Working
Size: 17-23 inches tall, 35-60 lbs
Lifespan: 11-13 years
Energy Level: High
Coat: Ranges from curly and tight to wavy and short
Shedding: Light
Hypoallergenic: Yes

History: The Portuguese Water Dog descends from other water dogs that were used by Portuguese fishermen to drive fish into nets and retrieve items from the water. Most historians believe that the Portuguese Water Dog shares an ancestor with the Poodle, who was originally bred to be a water dog. Over the years, Portuguese Water Dogs were used in many fishing trips, but the breed's popularity dramatically declined once fishing became more modernized in the early 1900s. Luckily, one man, Dr. Vasco Bensaude, saw to it that the breed did not die out. Over the decades, the Portuguese Water Dog was reestablished as a breed and it made its way to America during the mid-1900s. The breed gradually gained a following in the United States, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Portuguese Water Dog in 1983.

Temperament: The Portuguese Water Dog is a delightful breed that's full of energy and intelligence. These dogs need lots of physical and mental exercise, and they especially love to swim. Its playful and friendly nature makes the Portie a great dog for families with children, and the breed thrives on being around its human pack. That said, these dogs do not do well in a kennel or left by themselves for long periods of time. Training a Portuguese Water Dog isn't too challenging. They are typically eager to please and respond well to direction.