The Search Begins

So how did I find a Portuguese Water Dog in the fall of 1979? Well, it wasn't easy, but I was persistent. Maryanne was a great source because she had joined PWDCA, the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America, so I had some help there. I visited one couple who lived locally. They had bred their girl, but unfortunately she didn't get pregnant. Then Maryanne heard of a litter on Long Island that had just been born. I immediately called the breeder and found out all the males were promised. Would I consider a female? Would I? I had always had males and knew nothing about heat cycles and the like. After consulting and considering, I said YES! The die was cast. I was to get my puppy in late December so I spent the time reading everything I could about raising puppies and of course playing lots with Maryanne's Brilha; but there still was the fact of the landlord who didn't allow dogs to be considered. A plan needed to be hatched and fast.