

The Cão de Água Português is a highly intelligent, athletic, and loyal companion—bred as a maritime Apportierhund (retrieving dog) that would haul in fishing nets and deliver messages between boats. This joy for work still demands real tasks today.
Self-check
Answer 6 quick questions about your everyday life and see how well the Portuguese Water Dog fits you — including an honest cost estimate per month, per year, and across the dog's lifetime.
At a glance
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Lifespan
12–15 yrs
Shoulder height
43–57 cm
Weight
16–27 kg
Practical
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a Portuguese Water Dog, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Colors & coat
The coat colors that occur in the Portuguese Water Dog — including which ones fall outside the breed standard and which carry genetic risk.
Eye colors
Coat type
The real vibes check
A Cão de Água Português is like a highly qualified sailor on shore leave: it has energy, brains, and desperately needs a job, otherwise it will dismantle your ship out of boredom. You aren't getting a decorative fluffy dog, but a true athlete in a curly coat. If you are ready to work with it daily, you will have a shadow that would literally go into the deepest water for you.
The C"o de "gua Portugu"s, also known as the Portuguese Water Dog, is a medium-sized dog with a striking, water-repellent coat that can come in two variants: either it is wavy and slightly longer or it forms thick, short curls. One of the most distinctive features of this breed is the characteristic "lion cut," in which the fur is partially shaved off on the rear part of the body and on the tail, while it is left longer on the rest of the body. This robust dog is characterized by a powerful build, dark, almond-shaped eyes and drooping ears. Its tail is particularly strong and is often carried in a happy curve over its back. The C"o de "gua Portugu"s belongs to FCI Group 8, which includes retrieving, searching and water dogs. This illustrates its traditional role as a versatile working dog, which in the past
The C"o de "gua Portugu"s is known for its outgoing and energetic character. These dogs are very people-oriented and build a strong bond with their family. They are often very affectionate and appreciate being close to their people. Although they are usually good at staying alone, they should not be left alone for long periods of time, otherwise they may be prone to separation anxiety. This breed is extremely intelligent and eager to learn, making them excellent candidates for various dog sports such as agility, obedience or flyball. With their background as working dogs on land and in water, they bring a natural versatility and endurance that make them enthusiastic participants in all kinds of activities. The C"o de "gua Portugu"s are generally friendly towards other dogs and animals as long as they have been properly socialized. They are attentive and alert without being overly barky and can display appropriate alertness without being aggressive. Their hunting instinct is usually not very strong, meaning they tend to do well with smaller pets and in parks or open areas. However, it is important that they learn from an early age that they are not allowed to chase every movement or every small animal. These dogs are quite capable of adapting to city life as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. However, due to their activity level and size, they do best in a home with a safe outdoor area.
| Watchfulness Reports unusual activity but stays controlled. | Moderate |
| Openness to Strangers Neither pushily friendly nor suspicious. | Neutral |
| Hunting or Herding Drive Mild interest in movement and small animals — easily managed. | Low |
Fun Fact!
Did you know that the C"o de "gua Portugu"s became very famous thanks to the family of former US President Barack Obama? They had two dogs of this breed, Bo and Sunny, who lived in the White House during Obama's term in office!
Portuguese water dogs are hardworking but also stubborn dogs. They therefore need consistent education and employment. They can also be territorial and alert. Due to their hair properties, they are very popular with allergy sufferers.
C"o de "gua Portugu"s are adaptable dogs that do well in both urban and rural environments, provided they receive enough physical and mental stimulation. Their people-oriented nature and even temperament make them good pets for families with children. They are also generally tolerant of other pets, including cats, if they are used to them from an early age.
Lives for its family — the born family companion.
Takes boisterous and affectionate children in its stride.
Actively enjoys the company of other dogs.
City-appropriate with enough exercise and stimulation.
Owning a dog is a privilege, but it's also a real responsibility. Before you bring one into your life, be honest with yourself about the commitment it takes.
This intelligent and eager to learn breed requires consistent, positive reinforcement and varied training. C"o de "gua Portugu"s love to be busy, and they are excellent candidates for a variety of dog sports, including agility, obedience and even water sports. Due to their high energy levels, it is important not to "over-busy" the dog, i.e. allowing him enough rest and finding a good balance between activity and relaxation. Since this breed has a strong connection to its people, it can be prone to clinginess. Therefore, it is important to teach frustration tolerance and impulse control early on to prevent unwanted behavior. A well-trained C"o de "gua Portugu"s is an excellent companion who enjoys working with his person and listening to his instructions.
Your C"o de "gua Portugu"'s diet should be balanced and nutritious and tailored to his specific needs. As with any breed, a C"o de "gua Portugu"'s diet should be age, size and activity specific. You should always ensure a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. Since some dogs of this breed can be prone to being overweight, it is important to keep an eye on weight and avoid overfeeding. When it comes to care, the C"o de "gua Portugu"s coat requires regular attention. This breed has a thick undercoat and a water-repellent top coat that should be brushed regularly to prevent matting and keep the skin healthy. Their coat does not shed heavily, but regular grooming helps remove loose hair and promotes the distribution of skin oils. Despite their Portuguese origins, they cope well with the German climate.
| Care Level Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming. | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs Needs several hours of serious exercise every day. | Very active |
| Shedding Hair everywhere, always — no white clothing survives. | Very heavy |
| Trainability Willing to learn with clear rules and regular training. | Balanced |
Our experts are still reviewing this information. Spotted something wrong? Email us at info@honestdog.de.
Solid
Health grade
The Portuguese Water Dog is considered to be health-wise solid, as typical risks can be managed well through targeted breeding tests. Buyers should definitely insist on screening results for hip dysplasia (HD), the eye condition progressive retinal atrophy (prcd-PRA), and the severe metabolic disorder GM1 gangliosidosis. Since vital preventive health screenings exist for this breed, nothing stands in the way of acquiring a healthy dog from a responsible breeder.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-assisted and editorially reviewed.
Methodology and data: HonestDog Dog Breed Health Report 2026
What matters most for this breed
Tap any item to see details.
With joint-friendly rearing, a healthy weight, and regular check-ups for the heart and eyes, you can do a lot to ensure your dog stays active for a long time.
Reputable breeders have the joints, eyes, and hearts of the parent animals thoroughly examined and use genetic tests for neurological and heart conditions to reduce risks in the lineage.
Note: This health overview is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. It is for orientation only and does not replace veterinary advice.
What matters most for this breed — what's common, how much it affects the dog's life, and how to protect yourself as a buyer.
Tap a body region to see the inherited conditions linked to it.
The three most important risks
Pick a region on the map to explore other areas.
Tier 1 reflects the tests PWDCA actually mandates. Tiers 2 and 3 show how responsible breeders go beyond.
Club standard. Tests that the relevant breed club (VDH / FCI / AKC parent club) requires. Any serious breeder should be able to show you these.
No entries in this tier.
Note: This health overview is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. It is for orientation only and does not replace veterinary advice.
A Portuguese Water Dog costs around ~€180 per month (€100 – €340, depending on your setup). The first year adds up to roughly ~€5,030 including purchase, equipment and puppy school; across the dog's life (13.5 years) it comes to about ~€32,460.
With surgery cover, running costs come to about ~€180 per month — in return, your share of a major operation drops from several thousand euros to around 20 percent.
Per month
~€180
In the first year
~€5,030
Across the dog's life
~€32,460
Estimated purchase price from a breeder: €1,500 – €2,500
Estimate at a mid-range setup (suburban, dry food, 1–2 hours of daily exercise), average German prices, as of July 2026.
HonestDog Concierge
We currently have no breeders for this breed who have passed our verification. Create your short buyer profile: we'll set up your search alert, review a possible source and email you within 28 days.

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Illustrative imageThe exact origins of the C"o de "gua Portugu" are uncertain, but it is believed that their ancestors lived in Portugal and possibly other parts of the Iberian Peninsula hundreds of years ago. The breed was traditionally used by fishermen to haul in fishing nets, recover lost equipment and carry messages between ships or from ship to shore. With their excellent swimming ability and tireless work ethic, these dogs were perfect for these tasks. However, as fishing modernized in the 20th century, demand for these working dogs declined and the breed was on the verge of extinction. Fortunately, dedicated breeders and enthusiasts recognized the value of this unique breed and worked to preserve it. In 1930, the first breed standard was established by the Portuguese Kennel Club, and the breed was officially recognized as C"o de "gua Portugu"s. Today, the Portuguese Water Dog is popular both in its homeland and internationally as a loving family dog and gifted athlete.
The Cão de Água Português was used as a fishing dog to retrieve nets and fish and to transmit messages between boats.
Portugal
1500
In family and everyday life, owners mainly describe the Cão de Água Português as a very affectionate, cheerful and adaptable companion. Many owners value its close bond with its people and stress how much the dog likes to be in the middle of things rather than resting off to the side. Its people-focus makes it a loyal companion that usually fits in very well in active households and with children, provided it is well integrated from the start.
The flip side of this close bond shows when it's left alone, though. Owners in forums repeatedly stress that the breed needs a lot of closeness. Many of these dogs cope poorly with longer stretches alone, such as a typical full-time workday, or respond with restlessness. Owners also often mention its huge enthusiasm for water and mud: no stream or rain puddle gets skipped, which regularly means mud indoors after walks.
Sources:hundeforum.dereddit.comzoomalia.dehundeseite.detackenberg.de
On training and activities, owners agree that the Portuguese Water Dog is a true working dog with plenty of temperament and a sharp mind. It learns incredibly fast and loves tasks such as dummy work, agility or retrieving, especially in the water. Leisurely strolls alone aren't enough for most of these dogs; without mental exercise, they often find their own things to do.
At the same time, owners urge others not to underestimate the independence and energy of these dogs. Many owners report a marked cleverness that can quickly turn against inexperienced owners when consistency is lacking. During adolescence, quite a few Porties tend toward boisterous behavior, pushiness and jumping up on people. Owners therefore stress that, alongside physical exercise, deliberately practicing frustration tolerance and downtime from an early age is essential.
Sources:reddit.comzoomalia.dehundeseite.detackenberg.dedogforum.de
Caring for the curly or wavy coat is a central topic among owners. The lack of a seasonal shed is often cited as a big advantage, but newcomers regularly underestimate how much grooming it takes. According to reports, the coat quickly develops stubborn mats without regular, thorough brushing, and every few weeks it's time either for a trip to the groomer or for clipping the dog yourself.
Health-wise, owners and breeders consider the breed largely robust, provided the parents come from carefully tested bloodlines. Owners frequently swap experiences about genetic tests and screenings for hip dysplasia (HD) and inherited eye diseases (such as progressive retinal atrophy). Experienced owners therefore strongly advise newcomers to check the parents' pedigrees and health certificates carefully in order to avoid the breed's typical hereditary conditions as far as possible.
Sources:reddit.comzoomalia.dehundeseite.detackenberg.decao-de-agua.de
Paraphrased from real owner reports · translated from German
The Portuguese Water Dog is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
The average life expectancy of a Portuguese Water Dog is 12-15 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
Portuguese Water Dog grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
The Portuguese Water Dog can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
The Portuguese Water Dog comes in these colors: Black, Brown, White, Black and white, Brown and white.
Showcase your kennel on HonestDog and reach families searching for a responsibly bred Portuguese Water Dog.