Dog Breed of the Month - Portuguese Water Dog - May 2009

• The Portuguese Water Dog is also called Cao de agua Portugues, Cao de agua, PWD and Portie.

• The Portie has aided Portuguese fisherman for many centuries.

• This dog breed is considered a good choice for people with allergies as they sheds little to no hair and have a single-layered coat.

• A Portuguese Water Dog puppy named Bo is the newest member of the White House, given by Senator Ted Kennedy (D-MA) and and his family to the President Obama's daughters, Sasha and Malia.

• There are two coat clips: One coat clip shaves the face and rear while the pet clip keeps the dog scissored to be about an inch long all over.

• PWDs are highly intelligent dogs.

• The PWD has a tendency to vocalize and their bark can be loud and distinctive.

• Many people do not know it but the Portuguese Water Dog was on the verge of extinction back during the 1930s.

• It has been said that today's Kerry Blue Terrier, Poodle and possibly even Irish Water Spaniel are possibly ancestors of the "water dog".

• The Portuguese Water Dog became eligible to compete in the show rings as a member of the Working Group, effective January 1, 1984.

• Considered an athletic, active dog breed, the Portie requires daily vigorous exercise - swimming is highly encouraged as a favorite activity.

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