Portuguese Water Dog
Male: 19-25 kg; Female: 16-22 kg
Male: 50-57 cm; Female: 43-52 cm at the shoulder.
12-15 years
Portugal
About the Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog (PWD), or Cão de Água Português, is a medium-sized, robust athlete originally developed in the Algarve region of Portugal. Historically, these dogs were indispensable partners to fishermen, utilizing their waterproof coats and webbed feet to dive into the Atlantic to herd fish and retrieve broken nets. Today, they are cherished as spirited companions, retaining their love for water and their intense desire to be close to their human family. Physically, the Portie is a picture of balance and strength, characterized by a broad head, a deep chest, and a powerful tail used as a rudder. Because they are highly intelligent and independent thinkers, they require an owner who can provide consistent leadership and a 'job' to do. Whether it is formal obedience or a game of fetch in the backyard, a busy Portie is a happy Portie.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the PWD is a spectacle of maritime power and functional beauty. They are judged on their 'rusticity'—a look of rugged capability—and a distinctive gait that is light yet powerful. The coat must be of the correct texture (profuse and thick) and presented in either the 'Lion Cut' or the 'Retriever Cut'. Their gaze is penetrating and intelligent, reflecting a dog that is always thinking one step ahead.
In Australia
Reliable Australian historical records for this breed’s introduction were not located.
Bred For
Multi-purpose fishing assistant; tasks included herding fish into nets, retrieving lost tackle, and acting as a courier between fishing boats and the shore.
Temperament
Intelligent, impetuous, brave, and docile. They are known for being extremely energetic, loyal, and possessing a quirky 'sense of humour'.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
High. Requires daily vigorous physical exercise combined with mental stimulation. They excel in swimming, agility, and scent work.
Grooming Needs
High. Requires regular brushing (2-3 times a week) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. They are non-shedding but prone to matting if the coat is neglected.
Living Suitability
Suited to suburban homes with a secure yard. While they can adapt to apartment living if given several hours of intense exercise daily, they truly thrive in environments where they have space to play and access to water.
Good with Kids
Generally excellent with children, though their high energy and 'bouncy' nature mean they are better suited to families with older children who can participate in their training.
Good with Other Pets
Usually good with other dogs and can live with cats if socialised early, though their high prey drive may lead them to chase smaller animals.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and quick to learn, but can be independent and 'mouthy'. They require positive, reward-based training and consistent boundaries.
Coat & Colours
Single-layered, non-shedding hair. Comes in two varieties: Curly (compact, cylindrical curls) or Wavy (falling in ripples with a slight sheen).. Black, white, or various shades of brown. Often features white markings on the chest, muzzle, and legs.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that Portuguese Water Dogs are predisposed to certain conditions, though not every dog will be affected. They are more likely to experience Hip Dysplasia and eye conditions like PRA, so purchasing from health-tested parents is vital. Owners should also be prepared for their 'water obsession'—they will find every puddle, bowl, or pool available, which often means a wet house. They are prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears and affinity for swimming; regular ear cleaning is a must. Porties are often 'velcro dogs' and can be predisposed to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods without stimulation. Their high intelligence means if they aren't given a task, they may invent their own—often involving chewing or digging. Additionally, some PWDs are predisposed to dietary sensitivities and may experience gas or skin irritations on standard commercial kibbles, often showing significant improvement on a fresh, limited-ingredient diet. Their coats also require significant financial and time commitment for professional grooming to prevent painful matting.
Feeding Guide for Your Portuguese Water Dog
Healthy Weight
16-25 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
400-625 grams
For a healthy adult, feed 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily in high-quality fresh or raw food. For an average 20kg dog, this equates to approximately 500g per day. Adjust based on activity level; a working Portie may require up to 4% of their weight during peak training.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-quality, nutrient-dense diet rich in lean proteins and Omega-3 fatty acids. They often thrive on fresh or raw diets that avoid excessive fillers which can lead to weight gain or digestive upset.
A balanced raw diet for a PWD should focus on lean proteins like Australian Kangaroo and Beef to maintain muscle without excess fat. Include 10% edible bone (e.g., lamb ribs or chicken frames) for dental health, 10% organ meats (liver/kidney) for essential vitamins, and 20% fibrous vegetables to support digestion. Majestik's Kangaroo or Beef & Veg patties are excellent options. Given their propensity for ear issues, ensuring a diet free from common allergens like corn or soy is beneficial.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Portuguese Water Dog Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Portuguese Water Dog? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
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Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
5-8 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.