Portuguese Water Dog
The Good
- Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat perfect for allergy sufferers
- Highly intelligent and eager to please, making training enjoyable
- Excellent family dogs with gentle temperaments around children
- Athletic and versatile - great for active Australian lifestyles
- Strong swimmers with natural water instincts
The Real
- High energy requirements need daily commitment
- Regular professional grooming every 4-6 weeks can be costly
- Can be too exuberant for families with very young children
- Prone to destructive behaviours without adequate mental stimulation
- Independent thinking can lead to occasional stubbornness
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Portuguese Water Dog is like having a furry personal trainer who's also your best mate - they're absolutely brilliant companions for active Australian families who can match their enthusiasm for life. These medium-sized dogs pack a lot of personality into their 16-27 kg frames, with those adorable teddy bear faces that made Bo and Sunny Obama household names.
Originally bred to work alongside Portuguese fishermen, these dogs are natural athletes who thrive on having a job to do. Whether that's learning new tricks, mastering agility courses, or simply being your dedicated walking companion along Sydney's coastal paths, they're happiest when they're busy. Their low-shedding, curly coats make them popular with Australian families dealing with allergies, though you'll need to budget for regular grooming to keep those gorgeous curls comfortable and mat-free, especially through a humid Brisbane summer.
What really sets these dogs apart is their intelligence combined with their eagerness to please. They're the type of dog that genuinely wants to make you happy, which makes training sessions feel more like fun bonding time than work. However, they do need owners who understand that this breed requires consistent mental and physical stimulation - a quick walk around the block won't cut it. If you're an active family who loves weekend adventures, beach trips, or even just daily jogs through your neighbourhood, a Portuguese Water Dog could be your perfect adventure buddy.
History
The Portuguese Water Dog has quite the seafaring heritage - these remarkable dogs once worked the entire coastline of Portugal, earning their keep as indispensable crew members on fishing boats. From the 13th century onwards, these athletic water dogs were the ultimate maritime multitaskers, herding fish into nets, retrieving lost tackle, and even acting as swimming messengers between ships and shore.
Picture this: while Portuguese fishermen hauled in their nets, these clever dogs would dive into the Atlantic to retrieve any fish trying to escape, their webbed feet and waterproof coats making them perfectly suited for the job. They were so valued that fishing crews wouldn't set sail without their four-legged helpers aboard.
The breed faced near extinction in the early 20th century when Portugal underwent massive social changes and traditional fishing methods declined. Thankfully, Dr. Vasco Bensuade, a wealthy Portuguese shipping magnate and devoted dog lover, recognised what the world was about to lose. He dedicated himself to preserving these incredible working dogs, essentially saving the breed from disappearing forever.
The Portuguese Water Dog made its way to America in the 1960s, and by 1984, they'd gained full recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC). Today, while they're more likely to be found playing fetch in Australian backyards than working fishing boats, they've retained all those wonderful traits that made them such valued working partners - the intelligence, athleticism, and that irrepressible love of water that defines the breed.
Traits & Characteristics
Portuguese Water Dog characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Portuguese Water Dogs are generally robust, healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they do have some conditions to be aware of. Reputable ANKC breeders screen their dogs for genetic issues, so always ask to see health clearances.
Hip dysplasia is a common concern, where the hip joint doesn't form correctly. Maintaining a healthy weight and regular vet check-ups can help manage this condition, with treatments ranging from supplements to surgery in severe cases.
It's also worth checking for eye conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts. Reputable breeders will screen for these genetic issues. While PRA is untreatable, cataracts can often be surgically corrected if found early during a vet check-up.
Less common but still notable are hormonal conditions like hypothyroidism and Addison's disease. These are manageable with medication if diagnosed, so be sure to mention any unexplained lethargy or weight changes to your vet.
In Australia, it's also vital to maintain a strict, year-round parasite prevention plan. The paralysis tick, found along the east coast, is particularly dangerous and can be fatal, so regular checks and vet-recommended prevention are essential, especially after bush walks or time spent in grassy areas.
Feeding your Portuguese Water Dog properly is pretty straightforward - these active dogs need high-quality nutrition to fuel their energetic lifestyles. Choose a premium dog food that meets Australian standards and is appropriate for your dog's life stage, whether they're a growing puppy, active adult, or senior.
Puppies need feeding three times daily on a consistent schedule to support their rapid growth and development. Adult Portuguese Water Dogs do well with two meals per day - typically morning and evening - which helps prevent bloat and maintains steady energy levels throughout the day.
The amount you feed depends on your dog's age, weight, activity level, and the specific food you're using. An active Portuguese Water Dog hiking the Blue Mountains every weekend will need more calories than one with a more sedentary lifestyle. Your vet can help calculate the right daily calorie intake for your individual dog.
These dogs can be quite food-motivated, which is fantastic for training but means you need to watch their weight carefully. Australian Portuguese Water Dogs living in warmer climates might eat less during summer months, while those in cooler areas like Tasmania might need a bit extra during winter.
Treats are brilliant for training these intelligent dogs, but keep them to about 10% of their daily calorie intake to prevent weight gain. Fresh, clean water should always be available, especially important given this breed's love of activity and Australia's warm climate.
Portuguese Water Dogs fed a complete, balanced diet typically don't need supplements unless recommended by your vet for specific health conditions. Stick to reputable food brands and avoid sudden diet changes, which can upset their digestive systems.
Here's where Portuguese Water Dogs require a bit more commitment than your average breed - their gorgeous, low-shedding coats are absolutely beautiful but need regular professional attention. Think of it as an investment in having a dog that won't leave hair all over your favourite couch!
You'll need to budget for professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, which can cost between $120 and $200 AUD depending on your location, and is essential to prevent matting and keep your dog comfortable. Their continuously growing coat will become unmanageable without regular clipping. You can choose between two traditional styles: the lion clip (where the hindquarters and muzzle are clipped short) or the retriever clip (where the entire coat is trimmed to about 2.5cm).
Between professional grooms, you'll need to brush your Portuguese Water Dog several times a week - daily brushing is even better. Their curly or wavy coat tangles easily, especially after swimming sessions at your local beach or dog park. A good quality slicker brush and metal comb are your best friends here.
Bathing isn't needed frequently unless your adventure-loving mate gets particularly dirty or smelly. When you do bathe them, use a dog-specific shampoo and make sure to thoroughly dry their thick coat to prevent skin issues.
Don't forget the basics: brush their teeth daily to prevent dental problems, check and clean their ears regularly (especially if they're keen swimmers), and trim their nails every few weeks. Their webbed feet can trap dirt and debris, so give those a regular check too.
If you're looking for a dog that'll keep you fit and entertained, you've found your match! Portuguese Water Dogs are like having a personal trainer with a wagging tail - they need at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily, and they're not satisfied with just a gentle stroll around the neighbourhood.
These dogs were bred to work all day alongside fishermen, so they've got energy to burn. In warmer cities like Brisbane or Perth, it's crucial to schedule these activities for the cooler early mornings or evenings, especially when temperatures climb above 28°C. Daily walks are just the starting point - they love hiking, swimming, fetch games, and any activity that challenges both their body and mind. Australian owners often find them perfect companions for beach runs along the Gold Coast or bush walks in national parks.
Training is where these dogs really shine. They're incredibly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them a joy to work with. Start training early using positive reinforcement - they're often highly food-motivated, so treats and praise work brilliantly. They can sometimes be a bit independent-minded, but consistent, patient training usually wins them over.
These dogs excel at dog sports like agility, obedience, and dock diving. Many Australian dog training clubs offer activities perfect for channelling their natural abilities. Without adequate mental stimulation, they can become destructive - think chewed furniture and excessive barking.
Swimming is their absolute favourite activity, so if you live near water, you're in luck! They'll happily spend hours in the surf or at the local dog beach. The key is keeping them busy and engaged - a tired Portuguese Water Dog is a well-behaved Portuguese Water Dog.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Portuguese Water Dog owner is someone who genuinely enjoys an active lifestyle and wants a four-legged adventure buddy to share it with. If you're the type who loves weekend hikes, beach visits, or morning jogs, and you're looking for a loyal companion to join you, this breed could be ideal.
These dogs thrive with owners who understand that daily exercise isn't negotiable - it's as essential as feeding them. You don't need to be a marathon runner, but you should genuinely enjoy getting out and about. Families with older children often do wonderfully with Portuguese Water Dogs, as they can handle the breed's exuberant nature and help with exercise duties.
First-time dog owners can succeed with this breed, but you'll need to commit to proper training and socialisation from day one. Their intelligence means they learn quickly, but they also need consistent boundaries. If you're someone who enjoys the training process and sees it as bonding time rather than a chore, you'll love working with these eager-to-please dogs.
Apartment living can work if you're truly committed to meeting their exercise needs, but a house with a secure backyard is definitely preferable. They're not suited to people who want a low-maintenance companion or those who are away from home for long periods regularly.
Budget-wise, consider the ongoing grooming costs alongside the usual dog expenses. If you're prepared for the financial commitment and can provide the time, attention, and activity this breed craves, you'll be rewarded with an incredibly loyal, affectionate, and entertaining companion who'll bring joy to your daily life for years to come.
Interesting facts about the Portuguese Water Dog
Webbed Feet for Swimming
The Portuguese Water Dog has webbed feet, making them exceptional swimmers perfectly designed for water work.
Two Official Grooming Styles
There are only two acceptable grooming styles: the lion clip, with a shorn rear end, and the retriever clip, where the coat is left at a uniform length.
Saved From Extinction
When Portugal faced social upheaval in the early 20th century, a wealthy shipping magnate named Dr. Vasco Bensuade single-handedly saved the breed from extinction.
Club Started in a Home
The Portuguese Water Dog Club of America was formed when just sixteen people met at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Herbert Miller after they received a pair of these rare dogs.
FAQ
Portuguese Water Dog puppies from reputable, ANKC-registered breeders in Australia typically cost between $4,000 and $6,000 AUD, depending on the breeder's reputation, location, and the puppy's lineage. Always research breeders carefully and consider rescue organisations as well.
While no dog is 100% allergen-free, Portuguese Water Dogs are considered one of the better choices for people with allergies because they shed very little. However, everyone's allergies are different, so spend time with the breed before committing to see how you react personally.
Yes, but only if you're absolutely committed to meeting their high exercise needs daily. They're better suited to homes with secure backyards, but apartment living can work for dedicated owners who provide 60+ minutes of vigorous exercise and mental stimulation every day.
Every 4-6 weeks without exception. Their continuously growing coat will mat and become unmanageable without regular professional clipping. Budget around $120-$200 per grooming session, depending on your location and groomer.
Portuguese Water Dogs make excellent family pets and are generally gentle with children, though their exuberant nature might be overwhelming for very young kids. With proper socialisation, they typically get along well with other pets too.
At least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily, not just walking. Think swimming, hiking, fetch games, or jogging. A quick walk around the block won't cut it - these dogs were bred to work all day and have the stamina to match.