July 3, 2025, 4:08 am | Read time: 5 minutes
He looks like a poodle, loves water, and was once the fisherman’s best friend: The Portuguese Water Dog, also known as Cão de Água Português, is an energetic, intelligent, and loyal companion. In the past, he helped retrieve fishing nets and deliver messages–today, he wins over the hearts of his owners as an active family dog. But beneath his fluffy exterior lies a demanding personality.
The Portuguese Water Dog is a traditional and versatile breed with an impressive history: As tireless helpers of Portuguese fishermen, they worked along the Atlantic coast for centuries–whether retrieving escaped fish, guarding boats, or performing life-saving tasks. However, with technological advancements, their labor became increasingly unnecessary, nearly leading to their extinction. Today, the Cão de Água Português is known not only for its intelligence and robustness but also for its love of water and ability to fit well into active households. Its distinctive, non-shedding coat and typical lion clip make it unmistakable–but also high-maintenance. Those seeking a loyal, clever, and athletic companion might find the ideal dog in this breed–provided they can keep up with its energy.
Origin
The origins of the Portuguese Water Dog date back to the 12th century. Early written mentions are found in monastery documents describing dogs that rescued drowning people from the sea–descriptions strikingly similar to today’s Cão de Água Português. Historically native to the entire Portuguese coast, this breed was an indispensable helper to fishermen for centuries. They carried messages from boat to boat, retrieved nets, and dove for escaped catch. Their robust build and excellent swimming ability made them ideal for these tasks. However, the modernization of fishing in the 20th century nearly led to the breed’s extinction–by 1955, there were only about 50 specimens. The population was saved through the targeted breeding initiative of shipowner Vasco Bensaude, particularly with the foundation sire Leão.
In 1955, the breed was recognized by the FCI. Today, the largest population lives in the United States. The dogs Bo and Sunny, owned by former U.S. President Barack Obama, made the breed famous worldwide.
Appearance & Coat
The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized, strongly built dog with a muscular body and pronounced webbed feet. Males reach a height of 50 to 57 centimeters at the withers and weigh 19 to 25 kilograms; females measure 43 to 52 centimeters and weigh 16 to 22 kilograms.
The coat is dense, resilient, and comes in two varieties: wavy or curly, each without an undercoat. The most common colors are solid black, brown, or white, as well as combinations of these tones, with white not exceeding one-third of the coat. Particularly striking is the traditional “Lion Clip,” where the hindquarters and muzzle are clipped short, while the chest and head have abundant fur–including a tuft on the tail. This clip has a functional origin: It facilitates swimming while protecting vital organs. Despite its voluminous coat, the water dog sheds little and is considered potentially hypoallergenic.
Character & Temperament
The Portuguese Water Dog has a lively, intelligent, and people-oriented nature. It is known for being highly trainable and attentive, with keen observation skills and a strong sense of smell. According to the breed standard, it exhibits a “vigorous temperament,” combined with pride, tirelessness, and occasional stubbornness. It is generally friendly to strangers, provided it has been well-socialized. Aggressive behavior is atypical, though it can be boisterous and territorial.
Its family bond is strong, seeking close contact with its people and known for being playful, loyal, and watchful. As a family dog, it is especially popular in active households where it is physically and mentally stimulated. It gets along well with other dogs and pets if accustomed to them from a young age. Barking is rare in this breed–a sign of displeasure or alertness, but not a permanent trait.
Training
The Cão de Água Português is an eager learner, highly trainable with positive reinforcement. Early socialization and a structured training regimen are essential to channel its sometimes willful nature. Despite its “will-to-please,” it likes to take the initiative if bored or lacking clear boundaries. Consistency without harshness is therefore required. Attending a puppy and dog school is highly recommended–especially for first-time owners.
In a lovingly guided environment, the Portuguese quickly shows how clever and eager to work it is. It needs a clear hierarchy and benefits from firm rules that all family members should follow. With thoughtful training, it develops into a reliable and balanced companion.
Proper Care & Maintenance
A Portuguese Water Dog needs plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and close family ties. An active household with a garden or regular access to nature is ideal. About two hours of exercise daily–including swimming, fetch games, or dog sports–is optimal. Apartment living is possible if sufficient activity is ensured.
The coat requires intensive care: brushing several times a week and regular clipping are mandatory. After bathing, the ears must be carefully dried to prevent infections. Grooming also prevents matting and ensures well-being. Additionally, teeth, nails, and eyes should be regularly checked. After outdoor activities, a paw inspection for foreign objects is recommended.
Nutrition
The Portuguese Water Dog does not have special dietary requirements but needs a high-quality, protein-rich diet–ideally with a high meat content and without sugar or grains. Whether dry, wet food, or raw: Quality and a portion adjusted to energy needs are crucial. Puppies should initially continue with the breeder’s usual food and be gradually transitioned if necessary. Two meals a day have proven effective.
Susceptibility to Certain Diseases
Despite its robust constitution, the Portuguese Water Dog is susceptible to some genetic diseases due to its narrow breeding base. These include progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, GM-1 storage disease (a rare nervous system storage disease), and juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy.
Responsible breeders test their breeding animals for these diseases and publish the results transparently. Regular veterinary care and joint-friendly exercise during puppyhood contribute to maintaining health.
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The Portuguese Water Dog at a Glance
- Temperament: Intelligent, lively, watchful, independent, loyal
- Size: Males 50–57 cm, Females 43–52 cm
- Weight: Males 19–25 kg, Females 16–22 kg
- Coat & Color: Curly or wavy coat, solid black, brown, or white; also bicolor
- Special Features: Webbed feet, traditional lion clip, minimal shedding
- Grooming Needs: High–regular brushing & clipping necessary
- Suitable for: Active families, athletic individuals, conditionally beginners