A Portuguese Water Dog Could Be Your Next Best Friend

7. Health

Puppies should always come from a reputable breeder who can provide clearances about the health of the puppy's parents. For Portuguese Water Dogs, look for clearances for hips as well as the eyes. Progressive retinal atrophy can occur in this breed. They can also develop storage disease, a rare metabolic disorder that can be revealed by a DNA test. Some health issues in dogs do not appear before age two so breeders should only breed dogs that are older than that to avoid passing on unknown issues.