The Portuguese Water Dog, past and present, is a working breed. As a  working crew member on Portuguese fishing vessels, tasks included  retrieving overboard objects, carrying messages, swimming fishing floats  into place, and guarding the boats, nets, and catch when in port. The  successful completion of these tasks required teamwork between dog and  owner. The PWDCA water trial program provides a context in which to  record our present efforts to preserve the past and insure the future of  this noble working water dog.

In order to preserve these qualities and maintain the future of the  breed's natural instincts, the PWDCA designed a series of water work  exercises, which reflect the historical working background of the  Portuguese Water Dog. These exercises not only showcase the dog’s  working abilities, but also enhance the working relationship between dog  and owner.