Our family was introduced to Portuguese Water dogs in 1997 when we wanted a dog but struggled with allergies. A dear friend who had 2 Portuguese Water Dogs graciously allowed them to spend the weekend with us in our home so we could make sure this was the breed for us. One of those dogs was the sire of a litter with a very special boy in it who would come to live with us for the next 16 years. His name was Dino, and he was the start of our passion for this breed. Since Dino we have welcomed and raised 5 of these amazing dogs each with their own unique, funny personality. They have taught me a lot about training and having a sense of humor.
It was always a dream of mine to show dogs in AKC conformation and performance, and most of all to eventually have a kennel of my own and breed and raise these wonderful dogs and share them with future generations. This led me to two influential and amazing people in the world of Portuguese Water Dogs. Shelley Plucker and Barb Crowther of Afortunado Portuguese Water Dogs. They were instrumental in mentoring me and teaching me all the information necessary to properly prepare for, breed, whelp and raise my first litter in my home. I was able to work with them side by side learning all about the breeding process, the importance of following the PWDCA’s guidelines for health testing and how to properly raise, socialize and care for a litter of Portuguese Water Dog puppies. Click below to see their website: Afortunado Portuguese Water Dogs - Home (afortunadopwd.com) I have successfully handled two of our dogs to their championships. Fernando is a Grand Champion and was in the top 5 owner handled Portuguese Water Dogs 2 years in a row, was Owner Handled Best in Show, multiple group placements and several performance titles. Mona is a Champion and incredible worker with drive, wonderful temperament. She enjoys water work, Rally and spending time with her family. Our dogs live with us as members of our family and enjoy lounging on the couch or sleeping in beds when they aren’t doing their designated jobs.