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  The existence of the Portuguese Water Dog along the Algarve, on the coast of Portugal, can be traced back to very remote times. Evidence exists which indicates that in pre-Christian times the water dog was held to be nearly sacred; severe penalties came to those who killed a water dog. 

There are many theories surrounding the dog, but none dispute that this remarkable dog has an ancient ancestry. The first written description of the Portuguese Water Dog is dated to 1297 and concerns a monk's report of a dying sailor who had been brought out of the sea by a dog having a "black coat of rough hair, cut to the first rib and with a tuft on the tip of his tail." 

 Size - Height at the withers - Males, 20 to 23 inches. The ideal is 22 inches. Females, 17 to 21 inches. The ideal is 19 inches. Weight - For males, 42 to 60 pounds; for females, 35 to 50 pounds. 

Proportion - Off square; slightly longer than tall when measured from prosternum to rearmost point of the buttocks, and from withers to ground. 

Substance - Strong, substantial bone; well developed, neither refined nor coarse, and a solidly built, muscular body.

  You've come to the right place; no one knows Portuguese Water Dogs like the PWDCA! We know that PWD puppies are cute. 

We know that PWDs are playful and wickedly smart. But we also know that the breed we all love is not the right dog for everyone.  Before you buy, we want to help you make sure that a Portuguese Water Dog is a great fit for you and your family. 

As with all breeds, it's important to understand the unique characteristics that make up a PWD. So it's worthwhile to spend some time examining health and temperament issues, exercise requirements (physical and mental!), and grooming needs.

  We are dedicated to fund canine medical research focused on issues that affect the health and well-being of Portuguese Water Dogs.  

Since 1998, we have approved $1.2 million in funding to health research grants that benefit the Portuguese Water Dog. Through your donations, the Portuguese Water Dog Foundation was a major contributor in the development of the DNA gene test for Juvenile Dilated Cardiomyopathy, as well as the test for two different forms of Progressive Retinal Atrophy. 

The Foundation sponsors various studies on cancers, Addison’s disease, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Puppy Eye Syndrome, hip dysplasia as well as many other important areas of health research.

  The Courier -- The PWDCA's Award-Winning Magazine.  It is the official publication of the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America, Inc. (PWDCA). 

Its goal is to provide information to members to perpetuate the original mission of the PWDCA. The magazine portrays Portuguese Water Dogs at work and at play.  It contains articles and photos contributed by members and breed experts on a variety of subjects, including water work, health, training, performance, conformation, and rescue.