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Portuguese Water Dog (Cao de agua Portugues)
Medium Breed
The Portuguese Water Dog is well-balanced, robust and well-muscled; he is a swimmer and diver of outstanding ability.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Portugal
Weight
Males 19-25kg / 42-55lbs;
Females 16-22kg / 35-48.5lbs (standards may vary)
Height
Males 50-57cm / 19.5-22in;
Females 43cm-52cm / 17-20.5in (standards may vary)
Coat
Curly coat
Markings
Black, white, brown, black and white and brown and white. In a white dog the mouth, nose and eyelids are black (otherwise it is classed as albino)
Lifespan
Above average, 12-15 years
Among the breed's many talents are retrieving, watch dogging, guarding, water rescue, agility, competitive obedience and performing tricks. This dog is of exceptional intelligence, is able to learn commands quickly and is always willing to please his master. The Portuguese Water Dog is fun and lively with a brilliant sense of humour; a joyful addition to the family home.
Temperament
The Portuguese Water Dog is highly intelligent and trainable, quick to learn new commands and always ready to please. He has a spirited disposition with a stable, pleasant temperament. Lively and playful, the Portuguese Water Dog has a great sense of humour. He is friendly and affectionate and very loyal to his owners.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
Portuguese Water Dogs are magnificent, robust, well-balanced and well-muscled with beautiful coats.
- Makes a wonderful family pet and companion
- Extremely versatile and intelligent
- Excels as a guardian and watchdog
- Adapts well to most climates
- A very light shedder
- Not a dog recommended for novice owners
- Regular grooming needed
- Moderate trimming and stripping is required
- Requires daily physical activity and mental stimulation
- Prone to hip dysplasia