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    Portuguese Water Dogs are lovable pets and increasingly popular amongst families. In fact, first dog Bo Obama is a Portie. Having a Portuguese Water Dog around is a ton of fun, as they love to play and be active. These beautiful and graceful dogs are perfect family pets. Get to know this adorable breed a bit better.

    PAWS UP FOR PORTIES

    A natural swimmer, the Portuguese Water Dog originated along the coast in Portugal, where they were used as working dogs. In their native land, they are called Cao de Agua, meaning "dog of water." They would herd and catch fish, or retrieve broken nets or anything else that had fallen in the water. They have been around for hundreds of years, and always served a meaningful purpose. (Dog Breed Info Center)

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    ATHLETIC APPEARANCE

    Portuguese Water Dogs are medium-sized, well-built dogs. They have thick, wavy coats and tails that remain undocked to allow swimming. Their faces are sweet, and they come in a variety of colors, including white, black and brown with markings. They are also know for their unique appearance when they are clipped in a lion trim. Being a popular dog amongst families, the Portuguese Water Dog sheds very little hair to none at all. (JustDogBreeds.com)

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    PORTIE CARE

    Although Portuguese Water Dogs make fabulous pets, they may not be the perfect dog for every family. Being such an active and energetic dog, they require a great amount of attention, which means a lot of time spent tending to the dog. They need to be taken out at least a few times a day for moderate-length walks, and they also must be given emotional attention. Abide by these suggestions and you are less likely to have a destructive dog. (TerrificPets.com)

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    DOCILE DISPOSITION

    These great companions are known for their swimming ability and great personality. They are generally good with kids. Portuguese Water Dogs are said to have a sense of humor. (PetWave)

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    KEEP ME HEALTHY

    Most dogs with longer ears are prone to ear infections. A way to prevent this is by cleaning them every so often, and especially when you see your dog scratching its ears or acting uncomfortable. Other health concerns involving this breed are hip dysplasia, storage disease, and progressive retinal atrophy. (Vetstreet)

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    GROOM ME GOOD

    Being a dog with a fuller coat, a Portuguese Water Dog needs to be brushed a few times a week to keep its coat matt-free and clean. Also, you can trim its coat monthly to keep it looking neat. (DogTime)

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    NEEDED NUTRITION

    Like all other dogs, Portuguese Water Dogs need a nutritional diet to help them live a healthy life. They can eat 2.5–3.5 cups of high-quality dog food, divided into two meals. They can also snack on dog treats every now and then. (DogTime)

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    ROOM FOR LOVE

    It is ideal to have a large amount of space for your Portuguese Water Dog, as they are active and need room to run around and play. They will be OK in an apartment if they have a good routine of being taken out regularly, and if the apartment is a decent size. Otherwise, they love a large backyard to play and run around in. (Vetstreet)

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    PORTUGUESE POWER

    Some Portuguese Water Dogs can live as long as 14 years if they have been healthy and receive proper veterinary care. (Dogster)

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    BREED ABOUT IT

    Portuguese Water Dogs generally have litters of about four to eight puppies. However, it is important to have your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a responsible breeder. (TerrificPets.com)

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