The Portuguese Water Dog, also known as the Portie or Cão de Água Português, descends from water dogs used by Portuguese fishermen to drive fish into nets and retrieve items from the water, likely sharing an ancestor with the Poodle who was also originally bred as a water dog. The breed's popularity declined dramatically in the early 1900s as fishing became modernized, but was saved from extinction by Dr. Vasco Bensaude who worked to re-establish the breed over several decades. The Portuguese Water Dog made its way to America during the mid-1900s and was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1983. These medium-sized, muscular dogs feature a dense single coat that can be wavy or curly in black, white, or brown, often clipped in a lion or retriever style, and are considered hypoallergenic with very light shedding making them ideal for people with allergies.
Active, intelligent, and full of energy, Portuguese Water Dogs are delightful companions who need substantial physical and mental exercise and especially love to swim, true to their water dog heritage. Their playful and friendly nature makes them excellent family dogs who thrive on being around their human pack, though they do not do well in kennels or when left alone for extended periods. These eager-to-please dogs are typically easy to train and respond well to directions, making them great for active families with children. Their hypoallergenic coat requires regular maintenance including combing or brushing 2-3 times weekly to prevent tangles, monthly trimming, and frequent rinsing with fresh water after swimming to remove damaging chemicals, plus regular ear checks to prevent moisture-related infections.
Portuguese Water Dog
"Warning: falling in puppy love may occur at first sight." I am an AKC registered Portuguese Water Dog puppy! I was born on February 26th and I will be ready for my forever home on April 23rd! I have
Portuguese Water Dog
"Warning: falling in puppy love may occur at first sight." I am an AKC registered Portuguese Water Dog puppy! I was born on February 26th and I will be ready for my forever home on April 23rd! I have
Portuguese Water Dog
"Warning: falling in puppy love may occur at first sight." I am an AKC registered Portuguese Water Dog puppy! I was born on February 26th and I will be ready for my forever home on April 23rd! I have
7Portuguese Water Dog
Bo is all black puppy with white neck, legs, and belly. He is energetic and playful. He also loves to be held and play with puppy toys. More information and pictures will be added as he continues to
4Portuguese Water Dog
Oreo is a black male puppy with white shoulders and back legs. He is energetic and playful. He also loves to be held and play with puppy toys. More information and pictures will be added as he contin
4Portuguese Water Dog
Nera is a black female puppy with white paws. She is energetic and playful. She also loves to be held and play with puppy toys. More information and pictures will be added as she continues to grow.
5Portuguese Water Dog
Galaxy is an black male puppy with a white spot on his chest. He is energetic and playful. He also loves to be held and play with puppy toys. More information and pictures will be added as he continu
2Portuguese Water Dog
Princess is a black female puppy with a white chest and belly. She is energetic and playful. She also loves to be held and play with puppy toys. More information and pictures will be added as she con
6Portuguese Water Dog
Dexter is a black male puppy with a white stomach and paws. He is energetic and playful. He also loves to be held and play with puppy toys. More information and pictures will be added as he continues
Portuguese Water Dog
"Warning: falling in puppy love may occur at first sight." I am an AKC registered Portuguese Water Dog puppy! I was born on February 26th and I will be ready for my forever home on April 23rd! I have
Portuguese Water Dog
"Warning: falling in puppy love may occur at first sight." I am an AKC registered Portuguese Water Dog puppy! I was born on February 26th and I will be ready for my forever home on April 23rd! I have
Portuguese Water Dog
"Warning: falling in puppy love may occur at first sight." I am an AKC registered Portuguese Water Dog puppy! I was born on February 26th and I will be ready for my forever home on April 23rd! I have
Portuguese Water Dog
Maverick has an outgoing personality,is curious and loves to play with kids . He has a soft white (with a few black spots)hair coat .
Portuguese Water Dog
"Warning: falling in puppy love may occur at first sight." I am an AKC registered Portuguese Water Dog puppy! I was born on February 26th and I will be ready for my forever home on April 23rd! I have