Drumroll Please…The Portugese Water Dog Is The Official “First Dog”!
Well, it’s official…the best dog for children is the ever loyal and gregarious Portugese Water Dog! At least its the best dog for Malia and Sasha Obama…
A gift from Senator Edward Kennedy who owns a few “porties” of his own, the new pup is sure to bring quite a bit of life to the Whitehouse.
Malia and Sasha named the pup, “Bo” after their grandfather, whose nickname was “Diddley”–get it? “Bo Diddley”–sounds like he’s going to be a character already!
A young brother and sister interviewed on Good Morning America this morning own Bo’s sister and they had a few words of advice for Sasha and Malia. “Be prepared for a lively puppy and keep your things out of his reach.” It was obvious they love their puppy and were excited to find out they own the official “second dog”, as they call her.
So what’s the big deal about the Portugese Water Dog anyway?
Here’s a some helpful information…
History
The Portugese Water Dog (or “Porties”) originated along Portugal’s water coast and was a “fishing dog”. Some say the breed dates back to 700 B.C. They were bred to retrieve or “herd” fish into fisherman’s nets, as well as to retrieve broken nets and tackle.
As recently as the 1970’s, Porties were almost extinct with only approximately 20 in existence in the United States. Though still somewhat rare, due to the establishment of the Portugese Water Dog Club of America in 1972 and a careful breeding program, they are no longer nearing extinction.
Temperament
The Portugese Water Dog is great with kids and their temperament is just wonderful! They make loyal companions and are extremely intelligent and easy to train in obedience and even agility skills. They seem to enjoy the actual training process, learn quickly and are able to retain the names of objects indefinitely.
Because they are classified as “working dogs”, they are content to be at their master’s side constantly–just waiting for the next “command”. They tend to be on the heels of their master wherever they go and love affection and attention.
The Portugese Water Dog is a very active breed and requires daily vigorous exercise, mental challenges, and interaction with their master. They are not a breed to be left alone for long periods of time–inside or outside. Because Porties have such a “drive” to work they need adequate mental stimulation and interaction, or they may otherwise become destructive. They have a strong retrieving instinct, so a good daily game of “fetch” or a long walk should be adequate exercise for the Portie.
Though not officially hypoallergenic, Porties don’t shed and therefore are desirable for those individuals or children that are prone to dander or pet allergies.
Genetic Diseases
Due to a limited gene pool and as with all pure bred breeds, Porties may be vulnerable to certain genetic illnesses. Among the concerns are hip dysplasia and certain eye diseases including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). It’s very important to research the breeder very carefully before purchasing a Portie. The Portugese Water Dog Club of America will have a list of breeders who follow proper breeding protocols that are aimed at improving and preserving this wonderful breed.
Over all, I think the Obamas made an excellent choice in the Portugese Water Dog. Since Bo is still a puppy, they’ll have their work cut out for them in terms of training and getting through the “puppy stage”, but that’s true with any puppy.
If they take the time to devote to consistent training and teaching Bo how to be a good house, or “Whitehouse”, dog–they’ll be rewarded with a wonderful, loving companion for many years to come.
Welcome home, Bo!
