SmartBreeds.io

Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dog is a medium working breed from Portugal also known as Portie, Portuguese Fishing Dog, Cao de Agua.

Browse all breeds Try the breed identifier

Breed overview

Portuguese Water Dog is a medium working breed from Portugal also known as Portie, Portuguese Fishing Dog, Cao de Agua.

Originally bred by fishermen in Portugal to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle, and act as couriers between ships and shore. Their webbed feet and waterproof coat made them exceptional swimmers and divers.

People looking into Portuguese Water Dog usually prepare for High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 35–60 lbs • 17–23 in.

PortiePortuguese Fishing DogCao de Agua

History and origin

Portuguese Water Dog is tied to originating from Portugal, specifically Portuguese coast, with sources often placing its development around 1400 CE.

Portuguese Water Dog is described here as placed in the working group and marked as an established breed.

Originally bred by fishermen in Portugal to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle, and act as couriers between ships and shore. Their webbed feet and waterproof coat made them exceptional swimmers and divers.

Browse dog breeds from Portugal Browse more working breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
working
Size
Medium
Origin country
Portugal
Region
Portuguese coast
Origin year
1400 CE
Weight
35–60 lbs
Height
17–23 in
Lifespan
11–13 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
5 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
1 / 5
Barking tendency
2 / 5
High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 5/5

Coat and classification

Portuguese Water Dog is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

CurlyWavyWaterproof

Portuguese Water Dog is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Medium-sized with athletic, muscular build
  • Curly or wavy waterproof coat in black, brown, or white
  • Webbed feet for swimming
  • Distinctive lion clip or retriever clip grooming styles

What this breed is known for

  • Originally bred by fishermen in Portugal to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle, and act as couriers between ships and shore. Their webbed feet and waterproof coat made them exceptional swimmers and divers.
  • The breed nearly went extinct in the 1960s with only about 25 dogs remaining. They were saved through the efforts of a wealthy Portuguese shipping magnate, Vasco Bensaude, who established a breeding program.
  • Portuguese Water Dogs gained widespread recognition when President Barack Obama chose two Porties, Bo and Sunny, as the First Family's pets due to their hypoallergenic qualities for his daughter Malia's allergies.

Health and care notes

Portuguese Water Dog is noted here for High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  • Storage Disease
  • Cardiomyopathy

Coat details: Curly, Wavy, Waterproof

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Portuguese Water Dog come from?

Portuguese Water Dog is closely associated with Portugal, especially Portuguese coast in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Portuguese Water Dog get?

Typical size details for Portuguese Water Dog on this page are 35–60 lbs, 17–23 in, 11–13 years.

What is the Portuguese Water Dog known for?

Originally bred by fishermen in Portugal to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle, and act as couriers between ships and shore. Their webbed feet and waterproof coat made them exceptional swimmers and divers.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Portuguese Water Dog reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.