Portuguese Water Dog

Origins and History

The Portuguese Water Dog (Cão de Água Português) originated in the coastal regions of Portugal, where it was employed by fishermen as a versatile working companion. Documented as early as the 15th century, these dogs assisted in herding fish into nets, retrieving lost tackle, and delivering messages between boats. The breed was refined in the 19th century by the noble families of the Algarve and later standardized by the Portuguese Kennel Club (GPC) in 1930. After World War II, the breed gained popularity abroad, notably when President John F. Kennedy chose a Portuguese Water Dog, named “Charlie,” to raise awareness of the breed’s hypoallergenic coat.

General Characteristics

• Medium‑sized, well‑balanced, and muscular with a square outline
• Intelligent, eager to work, and highly trainable; retains a strong desire for water‑related activity
• Originally bred for retrieving, herding, and guarding fishing gear; today excels in conformation, obedience, and agility

Note: While this information reflects current breed standards and veterinary consensus, individual dogs may vary.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 21–22.5 in (53–57 cm); Females 20–21.5 in (50–55 cm)
• Weight: Males 35–45 lb (16–20 kg); Females 30–40 lb (14–18 kg)

Coat and Color

• Coat: Curly, dense, water‑resistant; should not be woolly or overly long
• Length: Moderate; not exceeding 1 inch (2.5 cm) when hand‑stripped
• Accepted colors: solid black, solid brown, solid white, black & white, brown & white, or parti‑color (white base with brown or black patches)

Temperament Considerations

Portuguese Water Dogs are highly sociable and form strong bonds with their handlers. Their working heritage gives them a natural enthusiasm for water and retrieving, which can translate into a high energy level. They may exhibit a stubborn streak if not mentally stimulated, making consistent, positive reinforcement essential.

Training Essentials

• Early socialization with people, other dogs, and varied environments to prevent over‑excitability
• Daily exercise of at least 1 hour, incorporating swimming, fetch, and puzzle work
• Use reward‑based methods; avoid harsh corrections which can damage the dog’s willingness to please
• Introduce basic obedience before advanced water‑retrieval tasks to build a solid foundation

Daily Grooming

• Brush the coat 2–3 times daily with a slicker brush or curry comb to prevent matting
• Bath as needed, especially after swimming; use a mild, canine‑specific shampoo to maintain coat oils
• Trim the hair around the ears, paws, and tail for show readiness; regular nail trimming every 3–4 weeks
• Dental care: brush teeth several times a week or provide dental chews

Show Preparation

• Begin hand‑stripping or clipping 2–3 weeks before the show to achieve the desired length and texture
• Trim the ear flaps to a neat, rounded shape and clip the tail to the breed‑standard length
• Apply a light coat conditioner the night before the ring to enhance shine without weighing the hair down
• Ensure the dog is fully bathed, dried, and brushed to a smooth, glossy finish before entering the ring

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – hereditary; recommend OFA or PennHIP screening for breeding stock
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – autosomal recessive; DNA test available
• Hereditary cataracts – eye examinations by a board‑certified ophthalmologist (CERF) recommended
• Hypothyroidism – routine blood work can detect early

General Care

• Provide at least 1 hour of vigorous exercise daily; swimming is ideal for joint health
• Feed a balanced diet formulated for medium‑sized, active breeds; monitor weight to stay within standard range
• Average lifespan 10–14 years; regular veterinary wellness exams every 6–12 months