If you want a dog that...
  • requires regular and extensive grooming
  • demands attention and exercise
  • challenges your will
  • needs training and human contact
  • thinks independently
  • voices its opinion
  • greets friends and family with unbridled enthusiasm
...then the Portuguese Water Dog may be right for you.
If you want a dog that...
  • requires minimal grooming
  • needs little or no attention or exercise
  • requires little mental stimulation
  • is content to be left alone
  • is very obedient in nature
  • blends into the woodwork
  • gives the occasional jump, lick and wagging tail
...then the Portuguese Water Dog is NOT right for you.
GCH CH Maritimo's Blue Sky's Perfect Design, "Chaos"
The American Kennel Club has approved a standard for the Portuguese
Water Dog as submitted by the PWDCA, which we have exerpted here.
General Appearance
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Known for centuries along Portugal's coast, this seafaring breed was
prized by fishermen for a spirited, yet obedient nature, and a robust, medium
build that allowed for a full day's work in and out of the water. The Portuguese
Water Dog is a swimmer and diver of exceptional ability and stamina, who aided
his master at sea by retrieving broken nets, herding schools of fish, and
carrying messages between boats and to shore. He is a loyal companion and alert
guard. This highly intelligent utilitarian breed is distinguished by two coat
types, either curly or wavy; an impressive head of considerable breadth and well
proportioned mass; a ruggedly built, well-knit body; and a powerful, thickly
based tail, carried gallantly or used purposefully as a rudder. The Portuguese
Water Dog provides an indelible impression of strength, spirit, and
soundness.
​
Size:
  • Males, 20 to 23 inches. The ideal is 22 inches. 
  • Females, 17 - 21 inches. The ideal is 19 inches. 
  • Weight - For males, 42 to 60 pounds; for females, 35 - 50 
    pounds.
One can expect to pay $2,500 - $$3,500 for a well bred Portuguese Water Dog.
Our puppies are born and raised in our home.  We feel that proper socialization is key to a puppy developing into a healthy, well adjusted and confident companion. From day one each puppy is handled several times a day. The puppies are raised right in the middle of our home where they can experience all the activities of daily living. We gently expose them to different sounds, textures, surfaces, obstacles and people. Their environment is controlled to ensure that all their new experiences are positive and not overwhelming. Each puppy is sent home with a puppy packet that includes information on how to continue the socialization process of a developing puppy. You become part of the Maritimo family when you take one of our puppies home. We are always here to listen to a funny story or to offer advice for those difficult puppy moments. We want to follow all of our puppies throughout their lives. Interested in a Maritimo puppy? Contact Us


Sources: 
GCH CH Maritimo's Fly The W "Clark"