Animated and spirited, a Portuguese Water Dog is a loving, gentle pet perfect for families who love spending time by the beach.98-portugese-water-dog

The Cao De Agua, or ‘dog of water’ as it is known Portugal is a fun-loving and family-friendly dog. Unsurprisingly, they are excellent swimmers and were originally bred to assist fisherman. Nowadays, they are content for a nice long daily run and some games by the beach. They have high energy needs so be prepared to spend time exercising your pet. Training a Portuguese Water Dog is relatively easy as they are highly intelligent and quickly pick up on commands. You’ll have the best-trained dog in the neighbourhood in no time. While not overly vocal, a Portuguese Water Dog will make an excellent watchdog and likes to let you know when people pass your house. Portuguese Water Dogs stop growing at around 12-18 months old.

Fun fact: Portuguese Water Dogs have a very unique multi-octave voice.

They are great therapy or deaf-assistance dogs as the bark and

other noises they make are very distinctive.

Gentle and sweet-tempered, you need not worry when guests come to visit; your pet will be friendly and calm. They are excellent with children and other dogs but if your partner prefers cats, make sure to socialise them when young otherwise they won’t be besties. Hide your new leather boots as they are notorious chewers. Provide lots of toys and set limits on what can be chewed while they are young. They shed little and are low-maintenance – just brush weekly. If your housemate is allergic to dogs no need to worry, a Portuguese Water Dog has hair, not fur and is hypoallergenic and suitable for allergy-sufferers.

Scheduled six-monthly health checks and visits to the vet are important to ensure your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. It’s important that together with your vet a preventative healthcare program is determined and maintained based on the individual needs of your canine companion. Common ailments include hip dysplasia and nerve disease.

Size

Portuguese Water Dogs are a medium-sized breed weighing 16-25kgs and standing 43-57cms tall.

Space

This breed suits apartment living if exercised enough.

Energy Levels

They are the equivalent of a marathon runner; they go and go and go. Daily runs and lots of games are ideal for keeping this breed fit.

Difficulty Of Training

They are extremely intelligent dogs making training a breeze.

Family suitability

Great family pets and loyal companion.  

Suitability to other pets

They love to meet new friends, including cats and dogs if socialised from a young age.

Need for company

They have a moderate need for company and enjoy playing games with their family.

Hypoallergenic dog breed?

Yes

Coat and grooming needs

This breed is low maintenance and has a medium length coat in black, white, various shades of brown and part colours of white with spots. Brush weekly.  

Shedding

They shed lightly.

Tendency to bark

They have a moderate tendency to bark so expect some conversation.

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