Portuguese Water Dog
Also known as Cão de Água Português · Chien d'Eau Portugais · Portugiesischer Wasserhund · Perro de Agua Portugués
Portugal, Water Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 43–57 cm
- Weight
- 16–27 kg
- Life expectancy
- 11–14 yrs
- Energetic
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Water-loving
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a robust, medium-sized working dog from Portugal's coast, traditionally used by fishermen to help with nets, carry messages between boats and retrieve items from the sea. It has a strong, well-muscled body, a broad head and a thick, non-shedding coat that comes either curly or wavy. The coat is often shown clipped in a lion or retriever style. Webbed feet and a powerful tail make it a capable swimmer.
Temperament
Intelligent, energetic and closely bonded to its family. Many enjoy having a job to do and dislike being left alone for long periods. Usually friendly, though it can be boisterous and needs consistent, positive training from a young age.
Exercise
Needs substantial daily exercise, ideally an hour or more, including opportunities to swim, fetch or follow scent games. Mental work such as training and puzzle toys is as important as physical activity.
Grooming
Dense, curly or wavy coat that does not shed much but mats without regular brushing. Plan on brushing several times a week and a trim or clip every couple of months.
Care & wellbeing
Weigh and feed measured portions to keep a lean build. Check and dry the ears after swimming.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 21.5 kg adult- Water
- 860 ml–1.3 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,120 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Portuguese Water Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Developed along the Portuguese coast as a working water dog for fishermen, helping to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost gear and carry messages between boats. Its waterproof curly or wavy coat and strong swimming ability reflect this seafaring role.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- GM1 storage disease
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
- DNA tests for PRA and GM1
Not every Portuguese Water Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 11–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Portuguese Water Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Portuguese Water Dog get?
Adult Portuguese Water Dogs typically stand about 43–57 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 16–27 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Portuguese Water Dogs live?
Typically 11–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Portuguese Water Dog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Portuguese Water Dog need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Portuguese Water Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Portuguese Water Dogs shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Portuguese Water Dogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Portuguese Water Dog live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Portuguese Water Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (pra), gm1 storage disease. Not every Portuguese Water Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Portugal
- Type
- Water Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1955