Portuguese Water Dog Breed Information

Group

Working

Weight

19-27 kg

Height

50-58 cm

Lifespan

10-13 years

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About the Portuguese Water Dog

Reviewed by:

Dr. Liza Cahn

Veterinarian

Are you a keen swimmer who enjoys water sports? Then look no further – if you are seeking a canine companion that shares your love for water, then the Portuguese Water Dog could not be a better fit for you!

Our extensive breed guide gives you all the insights into what makes them such good swimmers, how to groom their coats after long swims, and how to keep these adorable fur balls healthy.

By the end of this guide, you should be equipped with all the information and know-how you need to decide on whether the Portuguese Water Dog will be coming along to your next lake outing or visit to the beach.

What is the history & origin of the Portuguese Water Dog?

As suggested by the name, this ancient breed originated in Portugal. Mainly owned by Portuguese fishermen, these working dogs used to be part of a ship’s crew and were tasked with retrieving lost tackle and broken nets, and herding fish into the fishermen’s nets.

As shipping modernised, this breed almost went extinct. But thanks to some loyal fans who formed a breed club (Portuguese Water Dog Club of America) in the 1970s, a breed standard was developed.

Although no longer vital to the fishing industry, the breed’s intelligence, versatility, and friendly nature have cemented its place as a cherished companion and family pet. Today’s most famous Portuguese Water Dogs might be former US President Barack Obama’s family dogs, Bo and Sunny.

What is a Portuguese Water Dog breed?

Also known as the Portuguese Fishing dog or native “Cao de Agua”, this is clearly a water-loving dog.

Compared to other dogs, they would probably spend most of their time in a pool, lake, or the ocean if allowed. One of their most prominent characteristics is their webbed feet, which ultimately assist them in being strong and efficient swimmers.

This medium-sized dog comes in either curly or wavy coat types, and in varying shades of white, brown, or black.

They are incredibly loyal, energetic dogs, but require lots of stimulation and are are known to sometimes outwit their owners.

Who is a Portuguese Water Dog best for?

There is no point in beating around the bush – these dogs crave being in the water and have high amounts of energy. Therefore, if you live close to a lake, the ocean or have a pond/pool of your own, this dog will be happiest with you!

They require vigorous exercise, and therefore, an ideal owner also lives an active lifestyle (no time for couch potatoes here!) with time for daily outings of at least an hour in length.

Due to their fun nature, they are a great addition to a family but are just as great to be around a single household. They love people and therefore should always be kept inside together with their family.

Portuguese Water Dog Grooming & Shedding

Good news for people with dog allergies! Compared to other dogs, a Portuguese Water Dog has a low shedding and thus hypoallergenic coat. Their coat needs moderate maintenance due to its relatively high density – so brush at least twice a week to avoid mats and tangles.

The straightforward and classic retriever clip is probably the most common haircut for a Portuguese Water Dog. If you would like something a bit more individualistic so that your pup stands out, you could also go for the lion cut, where the back half of the dog gets completely trimmed.

As this dog will ultimately spend a lot of time in the water, it is necessary to give them a fresh-water rinse regularly, followed by a thorough dry-petting session with a special focus on cleaning the ears to prevent excess moisture and infection.

Their nails also need to be trimmed regularly, and dental care such as teeth brushing is recommended.

Do Portuguese Water Dogs bark a lot?

As with other dogs, barking is a way of communication, and these dogs will make themselves heard with their gruff woofs if they feel the need to.

These moderately vocal dogs are not known to be excessive barkers if well-occupied with mental and physical stimulation.

What is the average weight & height of a Portuguese Water Dog?

This medium-sized breed can reach 50 to 58cm in height, with females being slightly shorter than males. They typically weight between 19 and 27kg.

Are Portuguese Water Dogs easy to train?

The Portuguese Water Dog is highly intelligent and obedient; therefore, you can teach it to do almost anything with a bit of training. These dogs are excited about any exercise and mental stimulation, so keeping them busy with stimulating toys and activities is highly recommended.

As with any other dog, early socialisation is key to getting your dog as used to as many different people, animals, and situations as possible.

These athletic and high energy dogs are also perfect for dog sports such as agility and (obviously) water training.

How do Portuguese Water Dogs behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Lovingly named Porties, these dogs are active and affectionate and therefore make the perfect family pet.

It’s best to raise them alongside older kids, as their boisterous persona can sometimes be a bit intimidating to smaller children.

They are quick-witted and can be quite the clowns, very much to their owner’s entertainment.

Without mental stimulation and exercise, these dogs can turn their chewing affinity into a destructive habit. So please always ensure that your dog has enough to do and gets in its daily workout.

Does the Portuguese Water Dog have any common health issues?

Portuguese Water Dogs are a robust and energetic breed. However, like all breeds, they can be predisposed to certain health issues, such as:

Hip Dysplasia – This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop correctly, leading to arthritis and pain. It is essential to have regular veterinary checks and provide a balanced diet to maintain healthy joint function.
Juvenile Dilated Cardiomyopathy (Juvenile DCM) – Juvenile DCM is a heart condition specific to young Portuguese Water Dogs, typically appearing before they reach 13 weeks of age. It leads to an enlarged heart that cannot pump blood efficiently. Affected puppies might exhibit symptoms like fatigue, difficulty breathing, and sudden death. There’s ongoing research to better understand and treat this condition.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – PRA affects the retina of the eyes, leading to vision loss. Regular eye checks can help detect early signs and manage the condition accordingly.
Ear Infections – Due to their floppy ears, Portuguese Water Dogs can be prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning and checks can prevent excessive wax build-up and bacterial growth.
Storage Diseases – These rare inherited disorders prevent the body from breaking down certain enzymes, leading to a buildup of toxic substances. Symptoms can vary, but they typically affect the neurological system.

Awareness and early detection are key to managing and treating these medical issues. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian, along with genetic testing for predisposed conditions, can go a long way in ensuring the health and longevity of a Portuguese Water Dog.

What is the lifespan of a Portuguese Water Dog?

These dogs can live up to 10 or 13 years old if treated well and without major health issues.

How much does a Portuguese Water Dog need to be fed?

You should work together with your trusted veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to decide the most appropriate food for your pup.

When choosing a diet, look for WSAVA and AAFCO seals of approval, indicating that the food is complete and balanced. As this breed is already prone to heart disease, it is especially critical to avoid grain-free diets, which have recently been linked to dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs.

Most owners feed two meals per day after puppyhood, with the amount depending on your dog’s diet, size, and activity level. You can give your dog quality treats in moderation, especially during training, but avoid feeding table scraps as this could be unhealthy and also result in unwanted begging behaviour. Plenty of fresh water should also be available.

How much can you expect to pay for a Portuguese Water Dog in Australia?

Their price of a purebred puppy of this breed can reach up to $4000. It’s essential to recognize that the initial cost of the puppy is only a small part of the total expenses. Ongoing costs for food, veterinary care, grooming, training, and other necessities should also be factored into your budget.

Be sure that you find a breeder who follows responsible breeding practices and utilizes appropriate testing and veterinary care to contribute to the health and temperament of their puppies.

Adopting a dog through an animal shelter or breed-specific rescue is another excellent option.

Portuguese Water Dog FAQs

Do Portuguese Water Dogs have webbed feet?

Yes, this water-loving breed has webbed feet to aid in swimming.

Can a Portuguese Water Dog be left alone?

These are highly social and intelligent dogs that require lots of stimulation throughout the day. Leaving them alone for long periods of time is not recommended, especially since they tend to chew when bored, which could be to the detriment of your furniture.

How many puppies can a Portuguese Water Dog have?

According to breeders, a Portuguese Water Dog litter usually contains 4 to 8 puppies, however there can be significant variation.

How often do Portuguese Water Dogs go into heat?

Female Portuguese Water Dog sexually mature around 6 months of age, and will go into heat approximately every six months thereafter. If you do not plan to breed your dog, spaying is highly recommended.