The Portuguese Water Dog, 
 known as the "Cao de Agua" 
 (Kown-d'ahgwa) in Portugal, 
  is a strong, robust, medium sized 
 dog with a non shedding curly 
 or wavy coat.  Either coat requires 
 basic maintenance and regular 
 grooming. 

 

CH Belouro Hunter's Tomgirl, NAP, NJP, JWC

The well balanced, seafaring working dog 
once carried messages and retrieved broken 
nets and tackle because of his swimming and 
diving abilities. He was prized by fishermen 
as a companion and guard.  As a watchman, 
the Water Dog is still protective rather than 
aggressive and he is cautious and sensible with strangers.

Zeb - Hunter's Zebulon Pup

 

 Modern fishing methods displaced the work  of the PWD and by 1972 their number dwindled to less than 25 worldwide.  Today  the efforts of a few people have revived  the breed and secured a healthy foundation  stock in the USA. 

The robustness and high spirits of this fisherman's dog must be understood as natural just as his retriever qualities make him "mouthy", not intentionally destructive.  The PWD needs people.  He thrives as a family member and gets on wonderfully with children and with household pets. 
 

U-CDX-AGII Ch. Hunter's Frank's Raisin Cain
(Raisin), AM UD CWD, CAN CDX, ROM 
UDX-OA CAN. OTCH 4th Courier Water Dog

 He is the family comedian and invariably competes for center stage.  A complex canine, he wants love  and trust and will prove himself trustworthy.  He needs a daily dose of exercise outdoors, or may provide his own indoors.  He works willingly for positive reinforcements; harsh punishment is  counterproductive.
 For these reasons he makes a poor kennel dog and in fact does poorly in any restrained situation such as being  tethered in a yard where he is bored and miserable. 
 Being greeted by a friend's Portuguese Water Dog is  unforgettable.  As a stranger, you are likely to experience a penetrating, nearly human stare.  Once known to him expect a raucous welcome, an offering of a favorite toy and possibly a cacophony of extraordinary sounds.

 The Portuguese Water Dog?  He is smart, lovable and  needs a lot of attention.  Channeling the stamina, intelligence and exuberance of this dynamic breed is highly rewarding although a challenge for any dog fancier. 

CH Belouro Hunter's Tomgirl, NAP, NJP, JWC