Known for centuries along Portugal’s coast and prized for its strength, spirit and soundness, the Portuguese Water Dog is a loyal worker and companion. Medium-sized and robust, the breed possesses a waterproof coat and the ability to swim all day. Its coat can be curly or wavy and is black, white, or brown, or combinations of black or brown with white.
A Look Back
Referred to as the Cao de Agua (dog of water) in its native Portugal, the Portuguese Water Dog was bred to accompany fisherman on their boats. An exceptional swimmer and diver, the breed retrieved broken nets, dove for fish, carried messages between boats and to shore, and guarded the boat for his master in foreign ports. The breed started disappearing in the early 20th century when technology made his daily job somewhat obsolete, but Dr. Vasco Bensaude, a wealthy Portuguese shipping magnate and dog fancier, saved the breed.
Referred to as the Cao de Agua (dog of water) in its native Portugal, the Portuguese Water Dog was bred to accompany fisherman on their boats. An exceptional swimmer and diver, the breed retrieved broken nets, dove for fish, carried messages between boats and to shore, and guarded the boat for his master in foreign ports. The breed started disappearing in the early 20th century when technology made his daily job somewhat obsolete, but Dr. Vasco Bensaude, a wealthy Portuguese shipping magnate and dog fancier, saved the breed.
Right Breed for You?
An athletic, active breed, the Portuguese Water Dog requires daily vigorous exercise. He is very intelligent and responds well to obedience training. His profuse coat is hypoallergenic, but requires regular maintenance. It may be kept in the lion clip (the coat on the hindquarters and muzzle are clipped to the skin) or the retriever clip (the entire coat is clipped to one inch in length and follows the outline of the dog).
An athletic, active breed, the Portuguese Water Dog requires daily vigorous exercise. He is very intelligent and responds well to obedience training. His profuse coat is hypoallergenic, but requires regular maintenance. It may be kept in the lion clip (the coat on the hindquarters and muzzle are clipped to the skin) or the retriever clip (the entire coat is clipped to one inch in length and follows the outline of the dog).
Source: American Kennel Club - www.akc.org
Grooming
General: The Portuguese Water Dog has a profuse single coat that can be either wavy or curly. Since the Portuguese Water Dog or “Portie” was bred to work in water and heard fish into fisherman’s nets; They need to be groomed every 4 – 6 weeks to keep clean ears, nails clipped, check anal glands and insure the coat and skin are in healthy condition as well as matt free.
Eyes: Eyesshould be alert and bright. Use Optisoothe during the bath to flush any foreign objects. Check eyes after working out in the field or in the water.
Ears: Monthly ear cleaning with Ear Care is advised to be sure no ear problems that might need vet attention arise. Only clean as far as you can see, never further.
Bathing: The Portie requires 2 baths. The first bath should be a general bath, any of our Classic Care or Professional Care products are perfect. If your dog is a working dog and spend a lot of time outside then we recommend Energee Plus shampoo for that extra dirty dog. The second bath is targeted for the need of your dog , if your dog has allergies or sensitive skin we would suggest a Hypo-Allergenic Coconut Shampoo and follow it with a Tea Tree or Tar and Sulpha Shampoo. Silky Show Shampoo and Conditioner with Bright White Shampoo will help keep[ the coat shiny and colors bright. Milk and Honey followed with Honey and Oat Conditioner will keep the coat nice and shiny as well.
Common Problems: Wound Cream should also be kept on hand since Portuguese Water Dogs are prone to scrapes and irritations for running outside, they are very active and need a lot of exercise.; High sheen spray and Aloe Silk before going outside will help when removing stickers and foreign objects such as leaves and brush.
Coat Care: Aloe Hydrating Spray should be used during the dry winter months as well if you live in a dry climate. Dematt Detangle Spray or Quick Finish will help keep the coat matt free.
Tools: A Brush and Comb are essential tools to have if you own a Water Dog. If you do not brush and comb your dog regularly then your groomer may need to use a Dematting Rake on your pet weather you leave it in a lion clip or retriever clip. Nail Clippers and Nail File will also be used to keep the nails at the proper length.
Show Dog Tips: Use Aloe Silk before drying the furnishings to add a silky feel and shine to the coat. High Sheen Spray before entering the ring to add a shine without leaving a residue. Color Enhancing Shampoo with Bright White is recommended followed by Silky Show Shampoo and Conditioner.
Paws. Paw Balm should be used weekly as well, paw pads that are soft and pliable are less likely to dry and crack.
