What is a Portuguese Water Dog?

With all eyes on the Obama family’s new pooch, a Portuguese Water Dog named Bo, it’s likely the popularity of the breed will skyrocket.
All prospective dog owners should research the breed they’re thinking of bringing home to determine if it’s the right fit for their family’s lifestyle.
So, what is a Portuguese Water Dog?
One of the most important things to remember is that this breed is classified in the Working Group by the American Kennel Club.
It was originally used along the coast of Portugal to herd fish into nets — yes, I guess that’s possible — and to retrieve lost tackle, broken nets and do other water-related work.
Its coat is curly or wavy and waterproof, and yes, it’s true — the dogs don’t shed and they are nonallergenic.
As with most breeds that are in the working group, these dogs are intelligent, active athletes. The AKC recommends not just daily exercise, but vigorous daily exercise.
“His profuse coat is hypoallergenic, but requires regular maintenance,” reads the AKC’s profile of the breed.
The dogs range in weight from 35 to 60 pounds and its fur can be black, white, brown or combinations of the three colors.
Though the breed is said to respond well to obedience training, the issue of exercise should be forefront on a prospective owner’s mind.
This is not a dog who will be content to lay around for most the day.
Want to learn more? Follow the link to see the American Kennel Club's profile of the breed.