SOUTHERN PAWS & CLAWS

Description of Porteguese Water Dog is a spirited, brave, exceptionally intelligent and loyal mid-sized dog. They average 35 – 50 pounds and have a life expectancy of 11 to 13 years. They are characterized as obedient, yet independent thinkers which stems from their working history. PWD’s enjoy exploring, and they will entertain you with this trait and amuse you with their antics in the process. These dogs are lovable and lively, and therefore excellent for all ages – making a great family dog.

The history of the PWDs was to guard the fisherman’s catch. Some of the instinct remains today, so they tend to bark at strange noises and people. However, due to their intelligence they can be taught when it’s appropriate to bark and when to remain quiet. Actually, they’re able to produce a wide variety of vocalizations in yodels, moans, whines and yips. They really do try to communicate!

Porteguese Water Dogs are non-shedders, therefore they fit the hypoallergenic category. The coat comes in two textures, wavy and curly. Like ours, their hair grows continuously so they need proper grooming on a regular basis. Daily brushing is not necessary…one or twice a week is normally enough.

Description of Miniature Poodle is considered the most intelligent of the three poodle sizes, and therefore very easy to train. They average 12–17 pounds, and have a life expectancy of up to 16 years. They are suitable for families with children, and are probably the most popular size of the poodles. Like toys, they should have daily exercise that includes some sort of fun activity; however miniature poodles are soft-tempered and sensitive dogs.

With other dogs and cats, Miniature Poodles are peaceful and accepting.

As with all poodles, the miniature poodle has the advantage of being the lightest-shedding, most hypoallergenic of all coated breeds. (Hairless breeds have no hair at all to shed.)

 PORTI-POOS:

With the cross of these two breeds – Porteguese Water Dog and Miniature Poodle – you have the best of both breeds which includes, but not limited to, a non-shedding, hypoallergenic dog.  They will also be easily trained to carry out complex commands due to their intelligence and agility. Porti-poos are beautiful dogs with a wide range of curly or wavy mid-length coat possibilities. They also have a varying weight range due to the size difference between the PWD and the Miniature Poodle. The life expectancy should be 12 -14 years.

Although they are independent thinkers, they prefer to stay near their person. They will love the water, making them ideal swimming partners or bring them along for boating at the lake. They can be a jogging/running companion or R&R companions because they will match to your energy level.