The Portuguese Water Dog Swims With Webbed Paws

The Portuguese Water Dog originated along Portugal's coast, where it helped fishermen herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle, and even act as couriers between boats.

Known also as the Portuguese fishing dog, it was so valued that one wealthy Portuguese shipping magnate included them in his fleet operations.

Though the breed nearly vanished in the 20th century, dedicated breeders and clubs—like the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America—helped restore its numbers.

Generally friendly and highly intelligent, Portuguese Water Dogs thrive on daily mental and physical activity. Their temperament makes them ideal for families, especially those with other pets or active lifestyles.

They respond well to positive obedience training methods and enjoy mental stimulation such as puzzles and dock diving. Without enough activity, however, they may develop undesirable behaviors from boredom.

This breed has a single-layer coat that may be curly or wavy, both of which are considered acceptable under the breed standard. Coat colors range from black and brown to white with markings. The hair has a slight sheen and requires regular grooming to prevent mats.

Popular grooming styles include the lion clip, which leaves hair long on the front half and short on the back, and the retriever clip, which trims the coat to an even length of about one inch.

Improper coat maintenance can lead to skin issues or discomfort.

Like many other breeds, Portuguese Water Dogs are prone to specific genetic conditions. Responsible breeders test for common issues such as hip dysplasia, Addison's disease, progressive retinal atrophy, and juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy (a rare but serious heart condition caused by a recessive gene).

Prospective owners should choose breeders who prioritize health screenings and adhere to guidelines from the American Kennel Club.

A Portuguese Water Dog requires high-quality dog food suited to its age, size, and activity level. Feeding your dog a balanced diet supports its energetic nature and overall well-being.

While they don't shed as much as many other breeds, they do need regular coat care and frequent grooming sessions. Daily physical activity and training tips focused on mental challenges will also help keep this breed happy and healthy.

Owning a Portuguese Water Dog entails a commitment to consistent training, regular grooming, and active engagement. From Portuguese Water Dog puppies to full-grown adults, these medium-sized dogs are loyal, energetic, and full of life.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.