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Water dog, allergy free
• 29 May 2008 •
 The traditional Portuguese water dog has several amazing characteristics. It has four webbed feet, the ability to dive to depths of three metres and it is one of the few breeds of dogs that does not cause allergies. Unlike most pets, the Portuguese water dog does not shed scales from its skin or fur and for allergy sufferers this is a big advantage. For these people contact with animals can cause extreme, hypersensitive reactions.
The history of the water dog goes back around 2,000 years and it is mentioned in records written by the Romans. It was when they came to Portugal that they first encountered a dog with such extraordinary maritime skills. In the recent past they were of great assistance to fishermen helping to put out and retrieve nets. Nowadays they are more likely to be kept as pets, being good natured and obedient.
In the USA, the breed has become extremely popular, even being accepted in homes where there are asthma sufferers. An extraordinary one in 13 children suffer from the illness and in many cases the problem can be linked to contact with animals. Almost invariably these victims have no adverse reactions to a water dog. Breeders are producing puppies to keep up with demand.
The situation could not have been more different when in the 1970s these dogs almost reached extinction. Listed in the Guinness Book of Records as an endangered breed of domestic dog, they were almost lost for good.
There is now a solid breeding programme in Portugal and at the Nature Reserve near Olhão visitors are welcome to meet up with the animals first hand. The kennels sell pedigree puppies for around 500 euros and stress that in most cases they are suitable pets for people who are predisposed to allergies.
Inhalation, ingestion or skin contact can set off the process of an allergy. Cells in the body - that are there to fight off parasitic infections - for some as yet unknown reason, read innocent substances such as animal fur or skin scales all wrong. Releasing a powerful mix of chemicals consisting of histamines, prostaglandins and leukotrienes, they cause inflammation. This in turn works on nerve endings and the chemicals can make the skin itch, affect blood pressure, cause muscles to contract and glands to produce excessive amounts of mucus.
Generally these reactions are not produced when in contact with water dogs but for allergy sufferers it is advisable to spend time with the pet before making a purchase. |  Return to Top
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