Breed | Portuguese Water Dog |
Color | |
Age | Young |
Gender | Male |
Size | Large |
Coat Length | - |
Adoption Fee | - |
PWD's are not for everyone, here is some information about the breed: Portuguese Water dogs make excellent companions. They are loving and intelligent. Because they are working dogs, they are generally content in being at their master's side. Owners of this breed will attest that their PWD usually stays in close proximity to them both indoors and outdoors. This is typical of the breed, as it loves attention and prefers to be engaged in activity of all kinds. This is not a breed to be left alone for long periods of time, indoors or out. Do not be surprised if your PWD brings you a "gift" or toy when you get home as a way of controlling his enthusiasm in greeting you. As water dogs, the retrieving instinct is strong (even in those who are smart enough to realize, after the 10th retrieve, that you'll just throw it out again). This breed makes an excellent guard dog due to its determination to defend its territory and a very loud and distinctive bark. While excellent companions to those who understand their needs, Portuguese Water Dogs are not for everyone. Their intelligence and working drive demand consistent attention in the form of regular vigorous exercise and mental challenges. They look (and are) soft, cuddly, cute -- but are not to be mistaken as "couch potatoes." When bored, PWDs will become destructive. A PWD will get into the garbage, silently snag food off the kitchen counters when your back is turned, and even learn to open cabinet doors. Heavy-duty chew toys can help keep him occupied when the owner is busy. Be sure to Portie-proof your home by keeping all fragile items (especially potted plants) out of reach. Make sure you research what types of plants (such as Poinsettias) and foods (such as chocolate) are poisonous to dogs before getting one. The PWD does not shed and is favored by people with allergies. PWDs will often consider a child as a canine litter mate and could play harder than you would want; and they play with their mouths. It is important that you never let small children be unsupervised with your dog(s).
This pet is spayed or neutered in accordance with our strict policy wherein all animals are altered prior to adoption. This pet is dewormed, current on vaccines, and started on monthly flea/tick and heartworm preventatives.
Animal Alliance is not a shelter where all the animals are housed in one location. Animal Alliance is a foster care network and animals are housed in many different locations. If you are interested in adopting a pet, please apply using the online application; applicants who call our phone line will hear a recorded voicemail with this identical message. We adopt many animals each week and meet prospective adopters at various locations so they can meet the animals they are interested in.