Portuguese Water Dog Poodle Mix
If it looks like a Poodle, walks like a Poodle, and barks like a Poodle, it must be one—unless it’s a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix.
Two members of the same family (Poodles and Portuguese Water Dogs) split centuries ago.
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The Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix combines the history, heritage and popular conceptions of these breeds.
This takes us back to a type of dog that started it all in the beginning.
Background Information
As dogs and men began to work together, various types of dogs were bred and selected.
Guard dogs, herding dogs and hunting dogs were probably the first three sorts.
Some dog breeds may have been chosen and bred specifically for certain takes.
Many other dogs were simply allowed to be themselves, and work was tailored around them.
A need arose for dogs who could work as hunters and retrievers in the water.
These dogs would bring back ducks, geese and other waterfowl to their owners.
And these dogs are the parents of both the Portuguese Water Dog and the Poodle.
The major difference is that the Poodle is now generally regarded as coming from France, while the Portuguese Water Dog is from Portugal.
This mix brings the two branches of the family back together again.
While Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes are mixed breeds, they bring many of the advantages of purebreds with them.
This includes an intriguing history, good looks and a dog that is uniquely yours.
Pros and Cons of Having a Portidoodle
Don’t be quick to get yourself a Portidoodle yet. His qualities may sound so good in the ears, but you must ensure that you are both compatible with each other. Find out if he’s the dog you are looking for as well as if some of his traits are not acceptable in your home.
Pros
- Low shedding rate
- Playful
- Easy to train
- High in trainability
- Overly affectionate
- Extremely loyal
- Energetic
- Just the right size
- Sociable
Cons
- Needs loads of attention
- Can be high-maintenance
- Tends to be very sensitive
- Not a good guard dog
- Requires an active lifestyle
- He can be strong-willed
Training
The Portidoodle is one of the easiest dogs to teach and train. This is no surprise since his parents are on top of the list when it comes to intelligence. With positive reinforcements, you can get him to follow your commands in a jiffy. He’ll be quick to remember every lesson too as long as there are repetitions.
You can reward him with pets to modify the number of treats he receives. Every time he makes a mistake, spare him from harsh punishments. Dogs do not respond nicely to that and such a reaction can only cause them to develop negative behaviors.
As a puppy, start his lessons with the most basic. Teach him what crates are for and incorporate obedience training, leash training, socialization, and basic commands. Some Portidoodles can learn in a few weeks, while others may take longer than that. You have to be patient as each dog has its own phase.
Exercise
Exercise is just as important as his training and diet. As mentioned, the Portidoodle would require a busy lifestyle to keep him mentally happy and physically vigorous. Long walks and free play can be enough to keep the weight down as well.
Let’s not forget, his Poodle parent has an extreme liking for food. He, as the offspring, may have the same behavior to treats and food rewards, therefore, putting him at risk of obesity if he’s immobile most time of the day.
For more exciting activities, play a game of fetch with him or let him swim in a pool. Just be sure to let him out after around 15 minutes to avoid over-exhaustion.
Diet and Nutrition
Every dog has different needs, therefore, getting him assessed by the vet is the best thing to do. This ensures that he gets the right food and diet throughout his lifetime.
It’s no longer new to us that what a dog eats can have a major impact on his quality of life. If he gets all the nutrients he needs for his growth, he can live more than the average 12-15 years life span.
Make a schedule for his meals to keep him from gaining too much weight. Puppies need to eat 3-4 times daily while adults must settle with two meals. Avoid dog food products that contain artificial coloring, food preservatives, MSG, generic meat, and fillers.
Grooming
The Portidoodle is a great choice for allergy sufferers as both of its parents are labeled to be hypoallergenic. That means his shedding rate is low compared to other dog breeds. Still, as his coat is dense, brushing has to be done a few times a week.
Use a slicker brush and gently comb him all over with it. This will collect his dead hair before they end up sticking on your couch and carpet. Washing him doesn’t have to happen frequently. Do it every 6-8 weeks or whenever he’s dirty.
Since he loves being in the water, always check his ears for any signs of infection. Make sure he has good oral health too and that his nails are trimmed short.
Activity Level
Every dog is different and you have to assess how high his energy levels are. You can expect him to be in the medium to high range though. This is explained by his parents’ history. Poodles and Porties are not couch potatoes as they are deemed hardworking and diligent in their man-given duties, historically.
This is a plus point for owners who have an active lifestyle. You can bring the Portidoodle to a river with a ball and have him retrieve it after it’s thrown. He’ll enjoy settling with an inflatable pool too. He’s happy as long as there is water nearby.
The only downside of having such a zestful pet is that he should never feel bored. This paves the way for him to develop unwanted behaviors until he gets the attention he needs.
Finding a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle Mix Puppy
If a rescue can’t be found or a puppy is preferred because of other family situations, how does one go about finding a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix puppy?
First of all, please avoid puppy mills, obvious and otherwise.
These places are out to make money off of unsuspecting people and unloved dogs. No one wins in these situations.
These places may also sadly be some of the first places you find through the Internet.
When talking to or meeting any breeder, take a double (or triple) look at their practices and papers.
Look for breeders who do not pressure you in any way to buy a pup right away, who may have a wait list or nothing available at the moment, and who will interview you as to your ability to raise one of their pups.
Breed clubs for Portuguese Water Dogs or other local focus groups surrounding this mix are a great place to start, as are any referrals they may give you.
Online focus groups can also be very helpful.
Is a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle Mix Right for Me?
If you are looking for an intelligent, loyal and adaptable companion to be at your side, this mixed breed is right for you.
If you are willing to put in the time and effort to help this dog bond with your family, the answer is probably yes.
Portuguese Water Dog Poodle Mix Rescues
Where can you find a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix to rescue?
Your best bet is the Internet and focus groups once again. Depending on your location, they may or may not be available.
Check particularly with Poodle rescue organizations because they may have a much better understanding of the rescue landscape that you may have.
Similar Portuguese Water Dog Poodle Mixes and Breeds
If you can’t find a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix or decide that you like some of the traits, but it’s just not a good fit, what are some of your alternative options?
Don’t worry. Most poodle mixes share many of the admirable traits of the Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix.
Depending on the other parent, you may be able to find (to some extent) a pup that is almost ideal for your needs.
Both parent breeds are an option as well.
Ask around at various places for other ideas. Everyone will have an opinion.
