Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog, or Cão de Água Português, is a medium working dog from Portugal's coast, where it helped fishing crews retrieve gear, carry messages between boats, and drive fish toward nets. It is sturdy and athletic, with a broad head, strong tail, webbed feet, and either a curly or wavy single coat. Black, brown, white, and combinations with white markings are commonly seen. The traditional lion clip reflects its water-working background, although many family dogs wear a shorter retriever-style trim.

Portuguese Water Dogs are energetic, people-oriented dogs that usually need swimming, retrieving, training games, or another regular outlet. Their coats shed little but grow continuously, so brushing and professional grooming are normal expenses, and low shedding does not guarantee allergy tolerance. Puppies can be mouthy and persistent if left without structure. Responsible breeding programs use orthopedic, eye, and genetic testing, including screening for conditions known in the breed such as progressive retinal atrophy and GM1 storage disease. Active families often appreciate the breed's humor and stamina, but it is a poor match for a household wanting a low-effort dog.