The Portuguese Water Dog is a highly intelligent and versatile breed, known for their curly or wavy coat and eagerness to work. Originally bred as a working dog, they excel in water retrieval and are also affectionate family companions.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in Portugal to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle or broken nets, and act as a courier between boats and shore.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
17-21 inches
35-50 pounds
Male
20-23 inches
42-60 pounds
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Black, white, various shades of brown; sometimes with white markings
Type
Wavy or curly
Length
Medium to long
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Low
Grooming
Regular, every few weeks to monthly
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Large and well-proportioned
Skull
Broad and slightly rounded
Ears
Heart-shaped, set above the eyes, and close to the head
Eyes
Medium-sized, set wide apart
Nose
Broad with well-opened nostrils
Muzzle
Shorter than the skull, tapered
Teeth
Strong and scissor-like
Neck
Strong, slightly arched and well muscled
Forequarters
Well-muscled, with good bone structure
Fore Legs
Straight and strong
Hindquarters
Well-muscled and strong
Hind Legs
Strong with good angulation
Feet
Round and webbed
Tail
Thick at the base, carried in a ring or naturally
Gait
Balanced and powerful, covers ground efficiently
Temperament
Intelligent, loyal, and eager to please
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very affectionate
Good with Children
Good
Good with Dogs
Good, if socialized
Good with Cats
Good, if socialized
Openness to Strangers
Reserved with strangers
Playfulness Level
Very playful
Protective Nature
Moderately protective
Adaptability Level
Highly adaptable
Working Roles
Water retrieval, herding fish, courier, family companion
Exercise Needs
High, needs daily physical and mental stimulation
Health
Generally healthy but can be prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy (JDCM) and storage disease (GM1)
Additional Notes
Requires consistent training, can be sensitive; early socialization is essential
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