Discover Everything About Cao de Agua Portugues
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
Cao de Agua Portugues overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
Although official mandatory tests are missing from our database, prospective buyers of a Cão de Água Português should take an active role in verifying health documentation. Conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and hip dysplasia (HD) are known vulnerabilities within the breed. Furthermore, the severe neurological disorder GM1-gangliosidosis should be ruled out through appropriate genetic testing of the parent dogs.
Lifespan
12–15 yrs
Height
43–57 cm
Weight
16–27 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,500 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Wavy or curly, dense and water-repellent, undercoat present
- Origin: Portugal
Typical coat colors
- Solid color (black
- white or brown)
- or black
- white or brown
- white spotted
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a Cao de Agua Portugues, 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 →Is the Cao de Agua Portugues right for you?
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.
Perfect for you if:
- You want to incorporate daily retrieving, scent work, or water activities into your routine—a dog with this background will wither away on simple walks alone.
- You are looking for a cooperative, extremely eager-to-learn partner whom you can bond with closely and who prefers to work as part of a team.
- You enjoy spending your free time actively outdoors, are weather-hardy, and ideally have frequent access to bodies of water.
- You appreciate a dog that loves its family devotedly but often remains politely distant toward strangers at first.
Less ideal if:
- You expect a dog that keeps its snout quiet in daily life—as an Apportierhund, it will constantly carry things around and explore the world with its mouth.
- You have a very busy schedule and are looking for a low-maintenance sidekick who just wants to lie on the sofa after work.
- You mistake its high 'will-to-please' for automatic obedience—it is so smart that it will immediately see through any inconsistency and make clever decisions of its own.
- You underestimate the grooming requirements of a non-shedding coat, which must be brushed intensively and professionally clipped on a regular basis.
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.
Breed Profile
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
| Height | 43 - 52 cm (Female), 50 - 57 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 16 - 23 kg (Female), 19 - 27 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 12 - 15 years |
| Character | Energetic, Intelligent, Affectionate |
| Coat | Wavy or curly, dense and water-repellent, undercoat present |
| Coat Color | Solid color (black, white or brown), or black and white or brown and white spotted |
| Price | 1500 - 2500 € |
History
The 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
Character & Temperament
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.
| Trainability Willing to learn with clear rules and regular training. | Balanced |
| 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!
What Awaits You
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.
Housing & Care
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.
| Family Friendly Lives for its family — the born family companion. | Ideal family dog |
| Child Friendly Takes boisterous and affectionate children in its stride. | Patient with children |
| Dog Friendly Actively enjoys the company of other dogs. | Dog-friendly |
| City Friendly City-appropriate with enough exercise and stimulation. | Manageable in cities |
Owning a dog is not only a privilege, but also a responsibility. If you want to bring a dog into your life, you must be aware of the commitment that dog ownership entails!!
Training & Education
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.
Nutrition & Care
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 Regular shedding — dog hair on clothes is now normal. | Moderate |
| Trainability Willing to learn with clear rules and regular training. | Balanced |
This information is currently being reviewed by experts. If you discover an error, please send an email to info@honestdog.de!!
Health
Solid
Health grade
Although official mandatory tests are missing from our database, prospective buyers of a Cão de Água Português should take an active role in verifying health documentation. Conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and hip dysplasia (HD) are known vulnerabilities within the breed. Furthermore, the severe neurological disorder GM1-gangliosidosis should be ruled out through appropriate genetic testing of the parent dogs.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
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.
The breeder's role
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.
No Health Tests Available
No specific health tests are currently available for this breed.
Experiences with the Cao de Agua Portugues
Sabine M., Halterin aus Hessen (Rüde, seit 2022)
Wir haben uns ganz bewusst für einen 'Portie' entschieden, weil wir einen sportlichen Familienhund gesucht haben, der nicht haart. Und was soll ich sagen: Unser Rüde ist ein absoluter Traum im Alltag, aber man darf diese Rasse wirklich nicht unterschätzen! Er ist extrem menschenbezogen und weicht uns kaum von der Seite. Diese Anhänglichkeit ist wunderschön, bedeutet aber auch, dass das Alleinbleiben von Anfang an sehr kleinschrittig trainiert werden musste, da er sonst schnell zu Trennungsangst neigt.
Was man unbedingt wissen muss: Diese Hunde sind unglaublich schlau, aber auch stur. Wenn er keinen Sinn in einer Übung sieht, schaltet er auf stur und wir müssen mit viel liebevoller Konsequenz gegensteuern. Außerdem ist er extrem reaktiv und 'maulorientiert' – wenn er gestresst ist oder sich freut, nimmt er liebend gern alles Mögliche in den Fang oder knabbert an unseren Händen. Wir mussten ihm erst mühsam beibringen, wie er sich entspannt und wieder herunterfährt.
Louisa K., Ersthalterin aus Bayern (Hündin, seit 2023)
Als Ersthundebesitzerin habe ich mit meiner Hündin wohl den absoluten Lottogewinn gezogen. Sie ist extrem leichtführig, unfassbar schlau und lernt Tricks oft schon nach dem zweiten oder dritten Mal. Sie liebt das Wasser über alles – sobald sie eine Pfütze, einen Bach oder einen See sieht, gibt es kein Halten mehr. Sie ist fröhlich, frech und bringt uns jeden Tag zum Lachen.
Allerdings ist sie auch eine kleine 'Godzilla'-Anwärterin, wenn wir nicht aufpassen. Sie neigt dazu, sich sehr schnell hochzuschaukeln und wird beim Spielen extrem intensiv und körperbetont. In der Hundeschule müssen wir aktiv an ihrer Impulskontrolle arbeiten, da sie sonst andere Hunde regelrecht bedrängt. Wer einen reinen 'Nebenher-Laufhund' sucht, wird mit dieser Rasse nicht glücklich – sie braucht klare Grenzen und sowohl geistige als auch körperliche Beschäftigung.
Markus T., erfahrener Halter aus Niedersachsen (Rüde, seit 2021)
Ich bin mit Hunden aufgewachsen, aber der Cão de Água Português ist noch mal eine ganz andere Hausnummer. Was man definitiv nicht unterschätzen darf, ist der enorme Pflegeaufwand. Wir haben die 'Wavy'-Variante mit den langen Wellen. Ohne mehrmaliges, gründliches Bürsten pro Woche verfilzt das Fell sofort, besonders nach dem Schwimmen. Alle paar Wochen steht zudem das Scheren an, was entweder ins Geld geht oder viel eigene Übung erfordert.
Zudem ist der Jagdtrieb zwar nicht extrem ausgeprägt wie bei manchen Vorstehhunden, aber er ist definitiv vorhanden. Wenn sich im Wald etwas bewegt, ist die Aufmerksamkeit sofort da, und wir müssen sehr konsequent am Rückruf arbeiten. Es sind tolle, robuste Arbeitshunde, aber sie sind eben keine gemütlichen Couchpotatoes, sondern fordern ihre Auslastung bei Wind und Wetter ein.
sinngemäß aus echten Halterberichten
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Frequently asked questions about the Cao de Agua Portugues
Is a Cao de Agua Portugues the right dog for me?
The Cao de Agua Portugues is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a Cao de Agua Portugues live?
The average life expectancy of a Cao de Agua Portugues is 12-15 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a Cao de Agua Portugues need?
Cao de Agua Portugues grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a Cao de Agua Portugues good for families with children?
The Cao de Agua Portugues can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
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