Bravo Portuguese Water Dog Breeders!

As reported in the Wall Street Journal today, the demand for Portuguese Water Dogs has risen tremendously since Bo Obama moved into the White House. Reputable Portie breeders (like good breeders of all dogs) don't allow just anyone to purchase their dogs. The screening process is strict and demanding. Portie breeders are turning down people at an even higher rate than usual because so many people want the "It" dog.

"We try to discourage people," says Mary Eadie, a breeder in Annandale, Va., who says she has had 300 calls since Bo Obama came on the scene. She says she narrowed the field by eliminating anyone who wanted a dog immediately or wanted a female to breed. Then she weeded through applications, finally inviting the final 30 for interviews to vie for the 10 puppies her two females gave birth to in March. "We try to educate the public about the commitment involved in taking on this dog," she says.

The vigilance of these breeders will protect the breed and ensure that the dogs go to people who can take proper care of these highly energetic dogs.

With demand for Porties growing by leaps and bounds, puppy mills will unfortunately fill the void. If you want a Portie and the "breeder" or pet store is willing to sell you one no questions asked, walk away and don't look back--you may be turned into a pillar of salt. Don't be tempted because you will be supporting unscrupulous people who don't care about the welfare and safety of the dogs. Moreover, you want to be able to sleep at night. If you can't get a Portie, there are millions of other wonderful pooches waiting for you to find them!