Affectionate, Adventurous, Athletic
The Portuguese Water Dog is super-smart and very biddable—meaning he’s easy to train and eager to please. The breed can be groomed in two styles: The retriever clip (the entire coat is clipped to one inch in length, with the tail tip at full length) or the more check-me-out lion …
Energy
80%
Shedding
60%
Trainability
80%
Grooming
80%
Friendliness
60%
Coat Type
Curly coat
Daily Brushing
dog food
Best value grain-free option — great for active dogs…
toys
The #1 chew toy for heavy chewers — nothing else comes close…
beds
Best cooling bed — essential for flat-faced breeds and dogs in warm cl…
health
Best DNA test overall — unmatched health screening depth…
training
Best GPS collar for active owners — 3-month battery is class-leading…
grooming
Best probiotic coat spray — supports skin microbiome health between ba…
Needs 60-90 minutes active exercise daily; thrives with a job or sport.
Seasonal shedder — daily brushing during spring and fall coat blows is essential.
Coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting; professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
Recommended for experienced owners — high owner difficulty rating of 8/10.
Urban-friendly: adapts well to flat or townhouse living provided daily exercise is consistent.
Naturally friendly and energetic, it integrates well into family life when socialised early.
Working heritage means it needs a job or structured activity — under-stimulation leads to problem behaviours.
Portuguese Water Dog Cost Calculator
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FCI Group
Group 8 — Retrievers, Flushing Dogs and Water Dogs
Section
Waterhonden
Status
recognized
