When each of us joined the PWDCA, we pledged "to encourage and promote quality in the breeding of purebred Portuguese Water Dogs, and to do all possible to bring their natural qualities to perfection." But no matter how hard we try, there is still the fact that our gene pool is very small. No matter how many dogs we breed, they will still have the same old genes, just recombined in different ways. That is why we need a way to study our pedigrees and our gene pool. That's what the GEORGIE PROJECT is, a way to study the genetics of our breed. The GEORGIE PROJECT is SCIENCE. It's primary purpose is to preserve the breed through studies that will help us have sound and healthy dogs, now and in the future.
As an owner of a Portuguese Water Dog, the Georgie Project is asking you to do a service for our breed. We need data on hundreds of our dogs. We are asking you, the owners, to help us collect this data. If you have one or more Portuguese Water Dogs, at least two years of age, please help now! It does NOT matter if your dog is neutered or has an improper coat, has been bred and is a champion, or sleeps on your bed! For this study, all that is required is a pure bred Portuguese Water Dog that is at least two years of age, and an owner who is ready to be as precise as possible; with the patience to read and follow the instructions given here. If you have more than one dog two years of age or older, submit a form for each dog. If you have more than 3 dogs, choose the three dogs that are most different from each other. Each household may send data for one, two, or three dogs.
This study deals with measuring "parts" of your dog. Materials needed are:
A wooden dowel or other straight stick that is at least 2 feet long;
upon which you have marked "F" for "floor end" at one end of the stick
Review the dog drawings before you work! You may want to complete the survey in multiple sessions that are 10 or 15 minutes duration. Practice each measurement a few times before you record your data. Be as precise as possible!
The GEORGIE Project does not make judgment, there are no "bad" dogs, there are no right or wrong answers, there is only data. Be honest, be precise. If you have any questions, call Karen Miller at 914 669-8113.
Only participants will receive survey results.