Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a striking medium-sized working breed with roots in Portugal, where it was originally developed to assist fishermen.
These intelligent dogs were bred to herd fish into nets, retrieve equipment, and even deliver messages across water, making them natural swimmers with characteristic webbed feet and weather-resistant coats.
25-34kg
Weight
Medium
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Portuguese Water Dog
Standing 51–61 cm tall and weighing 25–34 kg, they possess a strong, muscular build perfectly suited to their aquatic heritage. Their distinctive appearance is often enhanced by the traditional "lion clip" grooming style, which clips the hindquarters whilst leaving a fuller coat elsewhere. Temperamentally, Portuguese Water Dogs are loyal, affectionate, and deeply devoted companions that form strong family bonds. Highly energetic and intelligent, they are alert watchdogs with a keen sensitivity to their surroundings and the moods of those around them. These spirited dogs require a confident, consistent owner to channel their considerable stamina and occasional stubborn streak effectively. Whilst they are usually excellent with children and other animals when properly socialised, they thrive when fully integrated into active family routines rather than sidelined. With minimal shedding and moderate exercise requirements of up to one hour daily, they suit active owners who can provide proper training, mental stimulation, and secure outdoor space. The breed typically enjoys a lifespan of 12–14 years.
Portuguese Water Dog at a Glance
- Group
- Working
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 25–34 kg
- Height
- 51–61 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Medium
- Sheds
- No
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Portuguese Water Dog Temperament
The Portuguese Water Dog is a loyal, affectionate, and highly energetic breed that forms strong bonds with its family and is sensitive to the moods of those around it. Intelligent and alert, they make excellent watchdogs and will quickly announce visitors. They are boisterous and strong-willed, with impressive stamina, and require a confident, consistent owner to channel their energy effectively. Without proper guidance they can be stubborn and headstrong. They are usually good with children and other animals when socialised early. Portuguese Water Dogs thrive when fully integrated into daily family routines and dislike being sidelined. Active, enthusiastic, and devoted, they suit owners who lead an energetic, hands-on lifestyle.
Portuguese Water Dog Lifestyle
The Portuguese Water Dog does best with plenty of indoor space and does well with a modest garden. They adapt well to both town and country living.
Dog Food for Portuguese Water Dog
Top-rated foods for Medium breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dog Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Portuguese Water Dog weighing around 30 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£5.22 - £5.57
Per month
£157 - £167
Per year
£1906 - £2032
Portuguese Water Dog Characteristics
The Portuguese Water Dog is a high-energy breed that needs a real outlet every day and is a quick learner and a pleasure to train. They thrive in a busy family environment, but can be left alone without too much trouble if their needs are met. The coat needs occasional grooming to stay tidy and is a moderate shedder. They are sharp and quick-witted, which is a joy, but means they need keeping mentally occupied.
Portuguese Water Dog Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredibly loyal and affectionate with their family, forming strong and lasting bonds
- Their non-shedding coat makes them a great option for allergy-conscious households
- Highly intelligent and trainable, with a talent for canine sports and working roles
- Well-suited to active lifestyles, especially those with a love of water
Cons
- Their coat needs professional grooming every six to eight weeks, plus daily brushing
- Needs a good amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay well-behaved
- Can be wilful and stubborn at times, requiring consistent and patient handling
- Known for mouthing behaviour, so careful supervision around children and small pets is wise
