Frequently Asked Questions About Portuguese Water Dogs

So you think you want a Portuguese Water Dog puppy?

We know that Portuguese Water Dog puppies are cute. But we also know they are not the right dog for everyone. Before you buy one, we'd like to help you make sure that having a Portuguese Water Dog is the right dog for you.

Our breed has a range of health, temperaments, energy levels - and breeders. Please take the time now to make a careful choice.
If you want a dog that...
  • requires regular and extensive grooming
  • demands attention and exercise
  • challenges your will
  • needs training and human contact
  • thinks independently
  • voices its opinion
  • greets friends and family with unbridled enthusiasm

...then the Portuguese Water Dog may be right for you.
If you want a dog that...
  • requires minimal grooming
  • needs little or no attention or exercise
  • requires little mental stimulation
  • is content to be left alone
  • is very obedient in nature
  • blends into the woodwork
  • gives the occasional jump, lick and wagging tail

...then the Portuguese Water Dog may NOT be right for you.
DO THEY SHED?
They do not shed very much, but they do shed (all mammals shed at least a little).  Portuguese Water Dogs, as well as other single-coated breeds (Poodles, Bichon Frises, Kerry Blue Terriers, Wheaten Terriers, to name a few), do not have an undercoat that sheds.  That undercoat shedding is what most people with allergies have problems with.
Portuguese Water Dogs are hypoallergenic, right?
Portuguese Water Dogs are considered to be hypoallergenic because they are single-coated.  To be "hypoallergenic" is to have a decreased tendency to cause allergies.  There is no such thing as a non-allergenic dog.  Hypoallergenic dog breeds (single-coated or hairless) will still produce allergens, but because of their coat type will typically produce less than others.  People with severe allergies and asthma will likely still be affected by a hypoallergenic dog.
If you have severe allergies it is suggested that you spend time with adult Portuguese Water Dogs before getting one.  Many people are allergic to Portuguese Water Dogs, so please be careful.  Spend time with the breed before bringing one into your home as a family member.

Are they good with children?
Portuguese Water Dogs get along great with children.  You need to remember, however, that dogs are not human.  Portuguese Water Dogs will often consider a child as a canine litter mate and could play harder than you would want; and they play with their mouths.  It is important that you never let small children be unsupervised with your dog(s).
Can they stay by themselves all day?
Portuguese Water Dogs are people-oriented and long to be with their "crewmates" or family.  Thus they do not do well in a kennel environment or left alone for long periods of time.
How big do they get?
Portuguese Water Dog Standard

Sex:  Male
Height (at withers):  20 to 23 inches (the ideal is 22 inches)
Weight:  42 to 60 pounds

Sex:  Female
Height (at withers):  17 to 21 inches (the ideal is 19 inches)
Weight:  35 to 50 pounds

n.d. n.p.  www.pwdca.org