A few specifics...
The Portuguese Water Dog has something to offer all. They are intelligent, affectionate, loyal, energetic, highly trainable, brave, and friendly with a nonshedding coat that allows people suffering from allergies the possibility of enjoying a four-legged friend. Porties are an outstanding family dog and adore their whole family. Of course, the one that gives the most treats is the favorite.
But wait. They also have a complex personality that will require the right surroundings, temperament, and knowledge to be a part of a Portie's life.
Along with a PWD's intelligence and energy comes an obligation to challenge those unique qualities.
Keeping your Portie mentally challenged with new tricks, toys, and interactive games are all good ways to occupy a mind that's always working. Involving them in obedience classes, working on agility at your local dog park, even taking them with you to run errands keeps them stimulated and well socialized.
Portie heaven? Take a tennis racket to the park, your back yard, or, better yet, a body of water and hit the ball as hard as you can. The typical PWD will play fetch all day long. Even taking them for a car ride helps. They experience new sights, smells, and sounds, see new faces and most often make new friends if given the opportunity.
Another personality trait to consider before you bring a Portie home is their aversion to being alone for long periods. I often call our dogs my four additional shadows. They love their families and can get anxious and destructive if left alone to their own devices. A bored teenager comes to mind for those of you who know that scenario. Although I encourage keeping a new puppy contained in a smaller area if left alone, they are not a dog that will stay in a crate while their people are at work or school.
Consistency is also a must for the Portie. Being highly trainable is one of these dog's most exceptional qualities, but they might just test you now and then to make sure you're on your toes.
In my experience, if well socialized early in life, the Portuguese Water Dog is excellent with children and smaller pets. They have a whimsical, sometimes mischevious sense of humor and are a perfect addition to an active family. They are also known to make excellent companion dogs for people who have PTSD. For those thinking they will never find stability and happiness in their lives through a service dog due to allergies, A Portie just might be your answer.
Thank you so much for taking the time to research the incredible Portuguese Water Dog. Below are some helpful links for further information and resources. If it sounds like the right breed for you, please feel free to give me a call with any questions or concerns you might have. I'm always happy to chat about our dogs and upcoming litters. If I can't help with a puppy, I will gladly put you in contact with reputable breeders that will also be happy to provide you with any information you need.
But wait. They also have a complex personality that will require the right surroundings, temperament, and knowledge to be a part of a Portie's life.
Along with a PWD's intelligence and energy comes an obligation to challenge those unique qualities.
Keeping your Portie mentally challenged with new tricks, toys, and interactive games are all good ways to occupy a mind that's always working. Involving them in obedience classes, working on agility at your local dog park, even taking them with you to run errands keeps them stimulated and well socialized.
Portie heaven? Take a tennis racket to the park, your back yard, or, better yet, a body of water and hit the ball as hard as you can. The typical PWD will play fetch all day long. Even taking them for a car ride helps. They experience new sights, smells, and sounds, see new faces and most often make new friends if given the opportunity.
Another personality trait to consider before you bring a Portie home is their aversion to being alone for long periods. I often call our dogs my four additional shadows. They love their families and can get anxious and destructive if left alone to their own devices. A bored teenager comes to mind for those of you who know that scenario. Although I encourage keeping a new puppy contained in a smaller area if left alone, they are not a dog that will stay in a crate while their people are at work or school.
Consistency is also a must for the Portie. Being highly trainable is one of these dog's most exceptional qualities, but they might just test you now and then to make sure you're on your toes.
In my experience, if well socialized early in life, the Portuguese Water Dog is excellent with children and smaller pets. They have a whimsical, sometimes mischevious sense of humor and are a perfect addition to an active family. They are also known to make excellent companion dogs for people who have PTSD. For those thinking they will never find stability and happiness in their lives through a service dog due to allergies, A Portie just might be your answer.
Thank you so much for taking the time to research the incredible Portuguese Water Dog. Below are some helpful links for further information and resources. If it sounds like the right breed for you, please feel free to give me a call with any questions or concerns you might have. I'm always happy to chat about our dogs and upcoming litters. If I can't help with a puppy, I will gladly put you in contact with reputable breeders that will also be happy to provide you with any information you need.
