Welcome to Dança Portuguese Water Dogs
About Us
About the Breed
The intelligent Portuguese Water Dog was bred to be an all-around fisherman's helper. This medium sized, robust-build breed was designed to think independently and to bond most closely to the captain of the ship. Responsibilities varied from courier, to guard dog, to bringing in the nets, and everything in between; a true utilitarian breed.
The Portuguese Water Dog is super-smart and 'biddable'' according to the standard; but if you know a PWD, you know they are only eager to do what it is that they feel is best. That said, if you are on the same page, it's magic in the making! The Portuguese Water Dog can be groomed in two styles: The retriever clip (the entire coat is clipped to one inch in length, with the tail tip at full length) or the more check-me-out lion clip, where the coat on the hindquarters and muzzle is clipped short. The retriever clip is only allowed in the United States where many continue prefer the official working trim of the breed, the lion trim.
We have been owned and loved by the most wonderful PWDs for over 20 years. While we appreciate the robust nature of the breed, we strive to have dogs that know where their own off switch is and are willing to use it. Sure, we want a dog that will go when we want to go, but we also want a dog that will enjoy a snuggle on the couch as well. There are a wide range of temperaments in the breed, but for us, it's important to have sound family members.
If you are interested in more information about the breed, our parent club is an excellent resource: PWDCA.ORG.
Under the Danca Kennel name we have welcomed three beautiful litters. Our first Danca litter, Evie and Cowboy, is three years old and out making great things happen. From that first litter, our lovely Dutch sired a litter with Gypsy this spring. Those six stunning puppies are also out making a name for themselves. Our Dutch and Gypsy puppies might outdo themselves as they work as service, therapy, companion, and show dogs. We are so very proud of all of our puppies and their families. While not under the Danca prefix, our first litter celebrated their 13th birthday on 16 July 2024. Hard to believe those sweet babies are now graceful seniors.
Without further ado, we are delighted to announce that our third Danca litter has arrived! While this pairing was been in the planning stages since 2020, it was time to make it a reality! Harley and Kingsley welcomed 11 beautiful, wavy puppies on the 14th of November. We are so excited to see how these beautiful puppies grow. We are welcoming inquiries for this large litter, if you are interested, we would love to talk! Placements won't be made until after temperament and overall structure evaluations. Puppies will be ready for their forever families the beginning of the new year.
After Harley and Kingsley puppies have found their forever families, we are planning a little break until 2026.
Health information for Harley and Kingsley is per PWDCA recommendations and is available via OFA and PWDCA HLD.
The Importance of Breed Preservation
Breed preservation is needed at every level: the passionate pet owner who talks about her dog at Starbucks and the dog park; the competitive exhibitor who wants to participate in Groups with something different; and the experienced breeder who can share decades of knowledge to help an uncommon breed become better known. The struggle is real and it deserves everyone’s best effort. We are very passionate about breed preservation. The PWD has nearly become extinct twice and while that may no longer be a threat, we want to honor our storied history and continue to breed dogs true to standard.
We don't breed often, but when we do it's because we feel we are making a contribution to the breed, it's right for the dogs involved, the dogs in our home, and us. If the pieces don't come together, we don't force it. This also means that we don't keep a waiting list, but if you contact us looking for a puppy, we are always happy to help. Our next litter won't be until 2026.
Did You Know?
The Portuguese Water Dog once existed all along Portugal's coast, where it was taught to herd fish into nets, to retrieve lost tackle or broken nets, and to act as a courier from ship to ship, or ship to shore. The boats where these dogs worked were often very small and it was just the dog (the first-mate) and the captain; no doubt the human bond is an important thing with this breed!