Portuguese Water Dog
Energetic, intelligent, and eager to work. Portuguese Water Dogs usually thrive with daily exercise, training, and an active home that enjoys a sporty, people-oriented companion.
size
Medium to Large
energy
High
shedding
Low
grooming
Medium to High
trainability
Easy
goodWithKids
Usually
barking
Low to Medium
aloneTimeTolerance
Low to Medium
climate
Mild
Best for
- Active families who enjoy training and outdoor activities
- People who want a low-shedding dog and can manage grooming
- Homes that can provide daily exercise and mental work
- Owners who enjoy water play and retrieving games
Not ideal for
- People who want a low-energy dog
- Homes that cannot provide daily training and enrichment
- Owners who want a low-grooming dog
Temperament
- People-focused and energetic
- Highly trainable
- Often playful and athletic
- Does best with a job or structured activities
Daily routine
exercise: Daily brisk walks plus play and training games. Many enjoy swimming and retrieving.
training: Reward-based training with variety. Teach impulse control and calm indoor behavior.
grooming: Regular brushing and grooming. Keep ears clean and nails trimmed.
Living fit
apartment: Possible with enough exercise and grooming, but an active routine is required.
family: Often great with active families.
firstTimeOwner: Often suitable for first-time owners who enjoy training and can manage grooming.
Health notes
- Mental enrichment prevents nuisance behaviors in smart working breeds.
- Regular grooming supports coat and skin health.
Cost and time
time: High. Needs exercise, training, and grooming.
cost: Moderate to high due to grooming.
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