Interested in getting a Portie dog breed, or at least in getting a dog for your home? These few questions will help review the critical issues, so you get to clearly think of the dog breed that is best for you and your home.

1) To who is the portuguese water dog breed not meant for?

Simply put, it's not for those who cannot handle a dog who demands a daily work routine and list of “projects” to do. The portuguese water dog is that dog which can prove itself in a particular task, and prove their mastery of it. It's hard to find another dog as talented and as versatile as the PWD. He is easy to teach and quick to soak in new skills, and a dedicated PWS family will help their dog reach his potential through activities such as water work, to flyball, to obedience, to agility and more. This means that even if you think you have a special mental “wavelength” with dogs, but are unwilling to put into action those above-cited activities, the PWD is likely not the breed for you.

2) What is the Porties' pricetag?

PWDs are gaining popularity these days! But if you checked your area and they are hard to find, this means they will be (or are) pricey. Buying a puppy can set back somebody by roughly about $1,400, and close to $2,000 for a “show quality” one.

But the pay-off is undeniable; all porties are “purebred” which means the parents gained distinction in shows. Add to this the fact that PWDs have very strong lineage, and the discerning dog owner can count on getting a fit and attractive dog.

One handy tip when negotiating with breeders is that they differentiate between "pet quality" and "show quality" pups and price them accordingly.

3) What about health? Any specific problems?

Although Portuguese Water Dogs do have major health issues like all other dog breeds, reliable, expert breeders are keeping an eye on these potential concerns and routinely check their litters for signs of these defects. Scrupulous breeder are capable of vouching for the health of their puppy. Besides, Porties are generally very healthy dogs!

4) What needs to be known about Portie temperament? Do they do well when together with kids, other dogs, other animals, strangers?

The response of your portuguese water dog to the world around him will heavily depend on you. Puppies socialized early on – for example, introduced to plenty of people, animals, and things – mature to become well adjusted pets. If you have children in the family (or a cat), a puppy is capable of orienting himself and will do well. But without danger of overemphasizing it, the socialization of a puppy is so important and cannot be taken for granted.