Portuguese water dog

IntelligentAffectionateEnergeticEager to pleaseWork-driven

The Portuguese water dog is a sturdy, affectionate, and highly intelligent working breed. Bred to herd fish into nets and retrieve tackle for fishermen, it is eager to please and rarely happy left alone for long. It usually gets along well with children and with other dogs, though its strong prey drive means small pets need supervision. Early training and socialization make a big difference in how it turns out.

Day to day, it needs real physical and mental work: a long walk or run plus games, puzzle toys, or training sessions that keep its quick mind busy. It loves water and most will swim readily. Its curly or wavy coat needs regular brushing to prevent mats, and it thrives with consistent routines and close contact with its people.

Good for: Active families, owners who enjoy water sports and training

Size	medium
Weight	35–55 lb
Height	17–22 in
Exercise	about 60 min a day
Shedding	low
Origin	Portugal

Before you choose a Portuguese water dog

This is an energetic, intelligent breed that needs daily work and training, so it is best for owners ready to commit that time.

Living with a Portuguese water dog

Exercise

Plan on at least an hour a day, split between brisk walks, running, and swimming if possible. Add games or training to satisfy its strong need for mental stimulation.

Grooming

Its curly or wavy coat sheds little but mats easily, so brush several times a week. Trim the coat every few months and bathe as needed, especially after swimming.

Health

The breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and certain heart and storage conditions. Ask your vet about health screening for any puppy you are considering.

Hip dysplasia
Progressive retinal atrophy
Juvenile cardiomyopathy

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

The numbers for a Portuguese water dog

Feeding, adult

2.5–3.5 cups a day

About 1,079 kcal, roughly 20 lb of dry food a month at 35–55 lb. Start here and adjust to the bag and your vet. Portion calculator →

What a year costs

$1,900–$3,200

Food about $794, plus routine vet care, parasite preventives and gear. US averages; insurance and emergencies on top.

Weather

Watch above 75°F, stop at 85°F

Coat or short walks below 32°F. Comfortable in most weather: watch pavement heat above 85°F and add a coat below freezing if the coat is short.

LIVE · New York

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Walk index

Heat, pavement and UV for your dog.

Right now

Latest dog food recalls

Aunt Millie s Bakehouse Whole Grain White Hot Dog Buns 6" Sliced 2 OUNCE. 12 unlabeled 12CT PKGS per sale unit case, product code 7502. Net. Wt. 18lbs.
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Sep 13 · Undeclared sesame

Breadman Brioche products in plastic bags: Brioche Toast, 2 lb. (1 loaf/bag), Brioche Buns, 40oz (10 buns/bag), Brioche Sliders, 50oz (25 sliders/bag), Brioche Hot Dog, 40oz (10 buns/bag)
Breadbox Co. · May 16 · Undeclared Yellow No. 5

Our Family White Hot Dog Enriched Buns, 8 count 12oz. retail unit UPC 0-70253-75107-3
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Mar 21 · undeclared sesame

All recalls →

Questions owners ask

Do Portuguese water dogs shed?

They shed very little, which makes them a good fit for owners concerned about hair. Regular brushing is still needed to keep the coat from matting.

Can a Portuguese water dog live in an apartment?

It can adapt to apartment life if it gets daily walks, play, and mental activity. Without enough exercise, it may become bored and destructive.

Are Portuguese water dogs good with kids?

Many are gentle and playful with children they know well. Supervise young kids, as the breed's energy and herding instincts can lead to nipping or rough play.