Porties (famously the Obama family’s dogs) are smart, biddable and athletic, bred to herd fish and retrieve gear from the water. They need a good deal of exercise and mental work — especially swimming — plus regular grooming of the curly, low-shedding coat. Affectionate and people-focused, they dislike being alone and thrive in an active home that loves the water and enjoys training.
Portuguese Water Dog
- Trainer-reviewed by Marcus Bell, CPDT-KA
- Last updated June 2, 2026
Breed character
A bright, athletic fisherman's dog with a low-shedding curly coat — energetic, affectionate and endlessly up for a swim, a game or a training session.
Temperament
- Intelligent
- Energetic
- Affectionate
- Trainable
- Spirited
Likes
- Swimming and retrieving
- Training and problem-solving
- Being with their family
- Active games
Dislikes
- Being left alone
- Boredom
- Under-exercise
- Skipped grooming
Habits & quirks
- A love of water and swimming
- Quick, eager learning
- Following their person closely
- Mouthy, playful enthusiasm when young
Great for
- Active families who love water
- Allergy-conscious homes (low-shedding)
- Owners who enjoy training
- Town or coastal living
Think twice if…
- Sedentary or absent owners
- People unwilling to groom
- Homes wanting a calm, low-energy dog
- Owners short on time
Portuguese Water Dog: quick answers
How big does the Portuguese Water Dog get?
An adult Portuguese Water Dog typically weighs 16–27 kg and stands around 43–57 cm at the shoulder — a medium breed.
How long does the Portuguese Water Dog live?
12–15 years is typical for the Portuguese Water Dog. Weight, genetics and routine veterinary care all move the needle — regular check-ups matter at every age.
Is the Portuguese Water Dog good with kids?
The Portuguese Water Dog rates 4/5 on our family-friendliness scale — one of the stronger choices for homes with children. Early socialisation and supervision still matter far more than breed for any dog around kids.
Does the Portuguese Water Dog shed a lot?
Not much — the Portuguese Water Dog is a light shedder (1/5 on our scale), one of the easier breeds for keeping hair under control.
Is the Portuguese Water Dog easy to train?
Yes — the Portuguese Water Dog rates 5/5 for trainability. It’s a quick study that responds well to short, consistent, reward-based sessions.
Can the Portuguese Water Dog live in an apartment?
Yes — the Portuguese Water Dog can do well in an apartment as long as its exercise needs are met with daily walks and play.
Is this the right breed for you?
Take the 3-minute Breed Match — a few honest questions about your home, time and energy, and a shortlist of dogs that genuinely fit your life.
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Care, gear & guides
Guides for this breed are coming soon.
