Portuguese Water Dog

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceFlexible

  Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment11–13 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Progressive retinal atrophy · Addison's disease

The Portuguese Water Dog is a curly-coated, athletic working breed that once herded fish into nets and retrieved gear for Portuguese fishermen, and it brings all that energy, intelligence and love of water to family life. Bright, eager and highly trainable, it needs substantial daily exercise — ideally including swimming — plus real mental work, or it channels its cleverness into mischief. It bonds closely and thrives on being an involved part of an active household, and it excels at obedience, agility and water sports. The curly, low-shedding coat is often tolerated better by allergy sufferers but is high-maintenance, needing regular brushing and professional grooming every six to eight weeks. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who does the genetic testing available for the breed: it is prone to progressive retinal atrophy and a serious inherited condition called GM1 storage disease, both of which have DNA tests, as well as Addison's disease, hip dysplasia and a juvenile heart condition. Choose a tested line, give a PWD plenty of exercise, swimming, training and company, keep up grooming, and it will be an energetic, devoted and fun companion for eleven to thirteen years.

• How much exercise does a Portuguese Water Dog need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Portuguese Water Dog need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Portuguese Water Dog suited to apartment living?

  Flexible. Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Is a Portuguese Water Dog a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Portuguese Water Dog live?

  11–13 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Portuguese Water Dog?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Progressive retinal atrophy, Addison's disease. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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