Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dog (Cão de agua português) ORIGIN : Portugal. UTILIZATION : A swimmer and diver of quite exceptional qualities and stamina, this dog is the inseparable companion of the fishermen to whom it is of great utility not only during fishing but also as a guard to defend their boats and property. Whilst his master is fishing the dog is attentive and, should a fish escape (from hook or net), jumps, voluntarily, into the sea to retrieve it, diving under water if necessary. It also swims out to retrieve any broken net or loose hawser. These animals are also employed as liaison between boat and shore or vice-versa, even when the distance is considerable. BRIEF HISTORICAL SUMMARY : In bygone times this breed existed everywhere along the coasts of Portugal. Today, owing to modifications in the fishing systems used, the breed has become restricted practically to the province of Algarve which should now be considered its home. The presence of these dogs along the Portuguese coasts can be traced back to very remote times and entitles them to be regarded as a purely Portuguese breed. GENERAL APPEARANCE : Dog of medium proportions, outline slightly convex with a tendency to rectilinear, braccoid type. Mediolinear type, well balanced, robust and well muscled. The muscular development due to constant swimming is noticeable. BEHAVIOUR / TEMPERAMENT : An animal with an impetuous disposition, self-willed, brave, quarrelsome, unassuming and very resistant to fatigue. It has a hard, penetrating and attentive expression, as well as splendid visual and remarkable olfactory faculties. A dog of exceptional intelligence; docile and obedient with apparent pleasure to any order given by its master.