Portuguese Water Dog

The modern Portuguese Water Dog has been recognised since the 1930’s when the breed standard was set by a dog named Leao.  A shipping magnate named Vasco Bensaude became interested in the breed when he heard that they were faced with extinction.  He acquired a dog named Leao from a fisherman and set about a planned breeding programme and standardisation.  Leao became the founding father of the modern breed and was widely known for his intelligence, affection and temperamental (almost moody) nature.

The Portuguese Water Dog, Ria Formosa Natural Park from Algarve Retreats LtdThe breed standard asks for a dog that is “ very intelligent and tremendously energetic with great swimming and diving techniques”.   The dog should be well muscled, balanced, robust and resistant to fatigue.  The penetrating gaze that the dog is known for is said to have come from their ability to detect sharks by staring into the water.  The dog is also said to be able to jump from the sea into a boat, possible because of the strength in the shoulders, chest and legs. The PWD’s strong swimming ability is improved by their characteristic “webbed” feet – the toes are joined by a membrane which greatly aids power through the water.  The PWD is not a mild breed, strong willed due to their working heritage, friendly, they love to play, dig and chew but they Portuguese Water Dogs, Ria Formosa Natural Park from Algarve Retreats Ltdare extremely faithful to their owners and love to spend all their time with their master.