Portugese Water Dog

About the Breed

The Portugese Water Dog is a loyal and intelligent breed that loves to please its owners. A popular choice for active families, this breed has a long history of being a working dog. This article will discuss the temperament, who the breed is ideal for, its history, healthy weight, and important health checks for the breed. Temperament The Portugese Water Dog is an enthusiastic and energetic breed. They are also highly intelligent with an eagerness to please their owners. They can be playful and mischievous but can also be very gentle when around children or other animals. Idea for Families This breed does best in an active home where it can get plenty of exercise and attention from its owners. They are ideal for families who love spending time outdoors as they need plenty of walks or swimming sessions to stay healthy and happy. The Portuguese Water Dog is known to be good with children and other animals so they could be a great addition to any family looking for an energetic companion. History Having been bred as a working dog in Portugal centuries ago, the Portuguese Water Dog was used by fishermen to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle or broken nets, act as couriers between boats or shore-side fisherman, and even act as watch dogs on ships at sea. The breed was thought to have almost gone extinct after World War II but was revived by Vasco Bensuade who wanted to preserve this incredible animal's heritage in his homeland of Portugal. Healthy Weight A healthy weight range for the Portugese Water Dog varies depending on gender and height - males typically weigh between 42-60 lbs while females tend to weigh between 35-50 lbs (with some variation). As with any animal it's important that your pet stays within its recommended weight range in order maintain optimal health - regular checkups with your vet will help you monitor this easily! Important Health Checks It's important that all dogs receive regular health checks from their vet - this includes annual vaccinations as well as tick prevention treatment during peak season months (April-October). Additionally there are some specific health checks that should be done on Portuguese Water Dogs such as hip dysplasia screening which should take place when your pup is at least two years old; eye exams which generally occur every one or two years starting from six months old; heart evaluations which should happen every year starting at seven years old; patellar luxation screenings at six months old; elbow dysplasia screenings at two years old; hearing tests which usually take place annually starting from eight weeks old; thyroid tests every one or two years starting from four months old; genetic testing before breeding which should occur before three years of age; skin allergy testing when needed; urinary tract infection (UTI) screenings before breeding (this may vary depending on individual circumstances); and finally parasite prevention treatments regularly throughout their lifetime! In conclusion, the Portugese Water Dog is an intelligent and loyal companion best suited for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors together. This hardworking breed has a long history steeped in tradition which makes them unique amongst other breeds today! Its essential that they receive regular health checks so they can stay happy and healthy throughout their lives!