Also known as: "PWD", "Water Dog", "Portie"
Breed Overview
The Portuguese Water Dog is a Medium dog breed, with a starting weight of 35 lbs that can reach 55 lbs. It is officially part of the Working group and recognized by the CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR. Some critical information for potential owners. The Portuguese Water Dog breed has a typical lifespan of 10 to 15 years, Medium hair, and have Lite shedding. Breeders interested in the Portuguese Water Dog should know that the average litter size is between 4 to 8 puppies.
Doggie Vitals
| Lifespan: 10-15 years |
Height: 17-23" |
Shedding: Lite |
Litter Size: 4-8 pups |
| Group: Working |
Weight: 35-55 lbs |
Hair Length: Medium |
Size: Medium |
Portuguese Water Dog Breed Characteristics
| Group |
Working |
Drooler |
no |
| Size |
Medium |
Guard Dog |
no |
| Origin |
Portugal |
Easy to Train |
|
| Kid Friendly |
yes |
Hypoallergenic |
yes |
| Stranger Friendly |
somewhat |
Active Indoors |
somewhat |
| Apartment Friendly |
yes |
Exercise Demands |
no |
| Pet Friendly |
yes |
Yard Needs |
small |
| Intelligent |
|
Grooming Requirements |
weekly |
| Barks |
|
Dangerous |
no |
Portuguese Water Dog Temperament
highly intelligent breed and used to be used primarily in the Portuguese fishing industry to guard boats, carry messages between boats and retrieve anything that fell overboard. This breed gets along well with children and other dogs and is highly intelligent, affectionate and loyal. Portuguese water dogs respond to tone of voice.
Health Problems
hip dysplasia and PRA
Portuguese Water Dog Coat
Portuguese Water Dog Dog Colors
Black, white and various shades of brown or black, or brown with white.
Recognized By
CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR