Portuguese Water Dog
Also known as: Portie, PWD, Cao de Agua
Origin: Portugal
Photo by Karl Byron on Pexels
Size
Medium
Weight
16-27 kg (35-60 lbs)
Life Expectancy
11-13 years
Energy
High
Trainability
Very High
Barking
Moderate
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Compatibility
History & Origin
Ancient breed that worked alongside Portuguese fishermen for centuries - herding fish into nets, retrieving gear, and swimming messages between boats. Nearly extinct by the 1930s before being revived by Vasco Bensaude.
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Training Tips
Highly Trainable
Eager to please and very intelligent. Excel at obedience, agility, and water work.
Needs Mental Stimulation
Smart dogs that get bored easily. Provide training challenges and puzzle toys.
Water Activities
Bred for water work - swimming and retrieving are natural and excellent exercise.
Common Health Considerations
Hip Dysplasia
ModerateJoint malformation; less common than in larger breeds
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
ModerateDegenerative eye disease; genetic testing available
GM1 Storage Disease
SevereFatal neurological disease; DNA test available to screen breeding dogs
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
1-2 hours daily. Swimming is ideal exercise. Active dogs needing significant activity.
Grooming Needs
High maintenance. Regular professional grooming. Does not shed but coat grows continuously.
Drooling Level
Coat & Colors
Coat Type
Common Colors
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