Find out all about Portuguese Water Dogs and their common health conditions, and then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.
Fact checked
$3,000 –$4,000
43cm - 57cm
16kg - 25kg
Affectionate, intelligent, lively
Curly, hypoallergenic
Moderate
Yes
10 - 14 years
The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized, athletic dog that originated in Portugal. They are an ancient breed, with roots dating back to the 8th century. They were originally bred to work as fishing dogs, helping fishermen by herding fish into nets, retrieving lost fishing gear, and carrying messages between boats. They were also used in water rescue operations and to guard ships against pirates. However, in more recent times they became famous as President Obama’s ‘First Dog,’ a Portuguese Water Dog named Bo.
Portuguese Water Dogs are typically between 43cm and 57cm tall at the shoulder. They have a double coat, with a soft, dense undercoat and a curly, water-resistant outer coat. They have webbed feet which helps them swim fast. They do not shed, so are considered hypoallergenic dogs. They can be black, brown, white, or a combination of these colours.
Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent and highly trainable dogs. They are eager to please their owners, which makes them easy to teach, and they can be trained for a variety of tasks, including retrieval, obedience, agility, and water sports. As Portuguese Water Dogs are excellent swimmers and divers, they are often used in water rescue operations, as they are one of the few breeds that will actually dive underwater to retrieve objects. They are affectionate and loyal dogs, making great companion and service dogs. They are still used as working dogs in many parts of the world. They are good with children and other pets.
Their love for water means Portuguese Water Dogs love swimming and water sports, so if you have a backyard pool you may not be able to keep them out of it! They should always be rinsed in fresh water after a swim in chlorinated water to prevent water sanitation chemicals from irritating their eyes.
Most Australians can expect to pay between $20 and $60 a month for pet insurance. There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your dog, which is why it's important to compare pet insurance policies. Factors affecting the cost of your insurance include:
This is the most basic type of pet insurance, covering costs for accidental injuries such as car accidents, poisoning, burns, fractures, snake and spider bites, but not illnesses and other conditions.
This type of insurance provides cover for accidental injuries as well as illnesses like cancer, gastrointestinal problems and eye, ear and skin conditions, but not routine care for your pet.
This offers the highest level of protection, covering accident and illness and potentially routine care such as vaccinations, dental care, worm and flea treatments and microchipping.
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