For those of us in the United States, this breed is celebrated as First Dog, the puppy Bo who was the promised selection for the family of President Obama. These dogs were very common among the Portuguese fishermen who used them to herd the fish into the nets, to take messages from ship to ship and to retrieve anything that has fallen overboard. Their thick curling coat protected them from the frigid waters of the Atlantic. They show a calm intelligent demeanor and make an excellent pet, especially for those who need a dog with a non-allergic, non-shedding coat. At the same time he is excellent for rugged outdoor water work with its waterproof coat and webbed feet. There history is thought to trace back to the rugged Chinese/Russian steppe as herders of cattle, sheep, camels and horses perhaps dating back as far as 700B.C. Some say they were captured by the fierce Berbers and brought to North Africa and then went with them when they finally, during the 8th century, arrived in Portugal though others credit either the Goths or the Romans. None the less, the breed is a relatively new show dog in the US not being recognized to show till 1984. The breed has since become quite popular.
If you would like to knit the Portuguese Water Dog design, you can order the pattern by simply going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm.
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