A dog that is happiest joining you exercise or play, a house dog that has a coat great for allergy sufferers, a dog whose intelligence and charm makes it the highlight of your day... You would think we are talking here about a different dog, but at least one dog out there effortlessly combines all these characteristics and more: the Portuguese water dog! Let's review some of the interesting and quirky details that PWD owners share with those who want to know what it is like to own these dogs.

First of all, PWDs are known for, and largely marketed as a hypoallergenic dog breed. The issue gets murkier when we bring up the fact that there is really no scientific data to support the existence of zero-sneeze-guaranteed canine pets. Nevertheless, PWD fans and owners need not worry too much; people with allergies usually talk of being able to tolerate living with a Portuguese Water Dog’s non-shedding coat. But before you put two and two together and make a final decision, try spending several hours with adult Water Dogs before you contemplate owning one just to verify your allergic response.

PWDs may be far from being near any of those viral videos in the Internet of “singing” singing, but they are acknowledged as possessing a multi-octave voice, even "yodeling" when excited. A bonus point for the breed is that they are normally not excessive barkers, but they do have a wide range of barks and sighs, including what is known as "expressive panting," or a loud, irregular, breathy pant when the dog is happily trying to communicate something.

And how does a unique sense of fun (or “busy-ness”) manifest itself in the breed? It is rare that a portuguese water dog will not take to playing and swimming in water. But if you are far away from pools, rivers, lakes, or oceans, no need to worry since Porties are absolutely fine with running or jogging.

Be careful also how you store your foodstuffs at home. Food kept in cabinets with no locks or bolts, or worse left on the counter, are no match for a super-smart and cunning Portie on the cruise for a quick snack!

Despite their sociability (so much so that they always want to be within sight of anybody), these dogs will stick to just one primary or alpha family member. Again, it cannot be overemphasized that, for the dog's sake and also for your property's sake, this is a dog that cannot be left alone for extended periods of time. And their loyalty extends to other members of the family too. With the proper socialization from the beginning, they grow up friendly with other animals in the house, and would not backtrack from meeting (and possibly even herding) farm animals.

Good luck in your quest for your next house dog!