Doggy Times II

Sporting Group

Breed History: This dog is also known as the Portuguese Fishing Dog among many other names. As per the name, this dog originated in Portugal. PWDs have played an important part in the Portuguese fishing industry for centuries. The dogs were used to herd fish, retrieve lines, and deliver messages from boat to boat. With the decline of fishing in the beginning of the twentieth century, the breed came close to extinction but was saved by a wealthy fancier. It is now a popular companion throughout the world.

Breed Description: This is a sturdy, medium-size dog. It has a strong, broad head, the skull slightly longer than the muzzle. The eyes and broad nose are brown or black and the drop ears are heart shaped. The feet are webbed and covered with hair and the tail is medium length. The single coat may be wavy or curly and is kept in a lion or working clip. The coat may be black, white, brown, or a combination of these colors. PWDs are 17 to 23 inches tall and weigh 35 to 60 pounds.

Breed Temperament: PWDs are biddable and intelligent. They are devoted to family and have great endurance. They are spirited and courageous. They love the water and are excellent swimmers.

Energy Level: High

Notes: They do well with an individual or family in rural or suburban homes. They need regular exercise, grooming, and training.

Health Concerns: Addison's disease, cancer, cardiac problems, eye problems, gastrointestinal disease, hip dysplasia, skin allergies, and renal disease.

1.) Dogs carry 60% of their body weight on their front legs.

2.) Dogs can't visually focus on any object that is directly infront of their nose. Therefore, when an item is directly infront of their nose, they don't even try to look at it. Their sense of smell takes over.

3.) All canines are decendents of wolves.

4.) 99% of all dogs' genes are the same. Only 1% of their genes determine their breed.

5.) Dogs can infact see color, however it is muted. While they can see cool colors very well, and even different shades of black, warm colors all look yellowish to them.

6.) Dogs can tell who you are from a distance or in the dark just by the way you move.

7.) Black dogs are difficult to adopt out of shelters. No one seems to know why.

8.) Poodles were originally bred to be water dogs. Their funny haircuts were ment to keep their vital organs warm while in the water. Now they are just for show.

9.) Some researchers now believe that dogs do not have a pecking order.

10.) A dog's muscles rebuild every 75 days!