Portuguese Water Dog Breed Guide
Also known as: PWD, Cão de Água Português, Portuguese Fishing Dog
Curly-coated fishermen's helpers, Portuguese Water Dogs are athletic, intelligent working dogs whose swimming ability and hypoallergenic coats suit active aquatic lifestyles.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
16-27 kg
Lifespan
11-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
Size
Medium
Weight
16-27 kg
Lifespan
11-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
About Portuguese Water Dogs
The Portuguese Water Dog originated in Portugal, where they were bred by fishermen to retrieve nets, herd fish, and carry messages between ships. These dogs were nearly extinct by the 1960s before being revived through dedicated breeding programmes.
Portuguese Water Dogs are medium-sized dogs with curly or wavy coats in black, brown, or white. They're known for their athletic build, webbed feet, and intelligent, loyal temperaments.
These dogs are intelligent, trainable, and make excellent family pets for active households. They're known for their love of water and their hypoallergenic coats. They require substantial exercise and mental stimulation, excelling in water sports and various dog activities. Their coats need regular professional grooming to maintain their appearance. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and certain genetic conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they develop into well-adjusted, confident adults.
Complete Care Guide for Portuguese Water Dogs
Expert advice on keeping your Portuguese Water Dog healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Meeting the nutritional needs of a Portuguese Water Dog requires careful attention to their unique dietary requirements. These energetic and athletic dogs thrive on a well-balanced diet that provides adequate protein for muscle maintenance, healthy fats for sustained energy, and appropriate carbohydrates for quick energy bursts during activity.
Proper portioning proves essential, as nutritional needs shift significantly throughout different life stages. Puppies require increased protein and calories to support rapid growth and development, whilst adult dogs need precisely measured portions to maintain their ideal weight. Senior Portuguese Water Dogs often benefit from adjusted portions and specific nutrients to support joint health and cognitive function.
Fresh, clean water must always remain accessible, particularly during exercise sessions or warm weather. These working dogs can become quickly dehydrated during vigorous activity, making proper hydration crucial for their wellbeing. Consider placing multiple water stations throughout your home and bringing portable water sources during outdoor activities.
Monitoring food intake and body condition helps prevent weight-related issues that could impact their natural athleticism. Regular weight checks and body condition assessments ensure your Portuguese Water Dog maintains optimal health through appropriate nutrition.
How healthy is your Portuguese Water Dog?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Portuguese Water Dogs from our community of pet parents
Portuguese Water Dogs are known for their affectionate and adventurous temperament. They are intelligent, energetic, and typically get along well with both people and other dogs. These dogs are also known to be quite loyal to their families and make excellent companions, especially for active individuals or families.
Dog Breeds Similar to Portuguese Water Dog
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Portuguese Water Dog
Spanish Water Dog
Woolly Spanish workers, Spanish Water Dogs are athletic, intelligent herding dogs whose curly coats and versatility suit those wanting active working companions.
Poodle
Intelligent athletes in curly coats, Poodles are versatile, hypoallergenic dogs whose intelligence and trainability make them excellent companions in three sizes.
Irish Water Spaniel
Clowns of the spaniel family, Irish Water Spaniels are intelligent water dogs whose curly coats and humorous personalities entertain sporting enthusiasts.