United Sunshine State Portuguese Water Dog Club

Press Release - Draft 8

Obama Family's Choice of "First Dog" Prompts PWDCA to Remind Public About Responsible Breeding and Dog Ownership

President Obama has announced his family's selection of a Portuguese Water Dog (PWD) as the "First Dog", triggering the most publicity the breed has ever had since its introduction into the U.S. in the late 1960's.

The Portuguese Water Dog Club of America is the AKC parent club* and would like to ensure the PWDs continued welfare by educating the public about the breed.

"While the PWD is a wonderful family pet, we want to use the increased interest in the breed as an opportunity to educate people about it," said Stu Freeman, President of the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America (PWDCA). "We encourage those who may consider adding a Portuguese Water Dog to their lives to do the proper research to ensure that this breed fits their lifestyle."

"PWDs are classified as working dogs. That means they enjoy being given jobs to do where they can display their intelligence, strength and stamina." Added Freeman. "Like all dogs, PWDs need training and socialization."

Jean Hassebroek, Corresponding Secretary of the PWDCA said, "The best thing about the breed is it's versatility - PWDs have been full-time sheep herders, R.E.A.D. therapy dogs and a FEMA 1 hero. But, they can also be champion coach potatoes, content to just hang out."

Because PWDs will form a strong bond with their families-even a "First Family", they don't do well when left alone for long periods of time or boarded in kennels. PWDs enjoy participating in activities with their "crewmates" or family like youth soccer, baseball and basketball games, picnics, hiking or any other family outing, especially those near water. They do well in homes with children, but it's possible a PWDs could mistake a small child for a litter mate and play too hard. In general, small children should never be left unsupervised with a dog of any breed.

The PWDCA is comprised of 1,500 members devoted to the well-being of the breed. They are available to discuss:
. The history and traits of PWDs
. How to responsibly acquire a PWD
. Health issues in the breed
. Grooming requirements of PWDs

For more information on Portuguese Water Dogs and to obtain a copy of the PWDCA Puppy Information Packet visit www.PWDCA.org or visit www.AKC.org/breeds/portuguese_water_dog.

*Each of the 161 breeds registered by the AKC is represented by a Parent Club, which oversees the breed standard and seeks to protect the welfare of the breed.

USSPWD Club Information