Portuguese Water Dog (or Chien d'Eau Portugais)

🐾 History

The Portuguese Water Dog is a true sea adventurer! Originating from Portugal, this breed was developed by Portuguese fishermen in the 1930s to catch fish, dive to retrieve nets, and carry messages between boats.

Descended from crosses between European and North African dogs, it quickly became indispensable to fishermen due to its agility in the water and loyalty. Today, even though ports have replaced nets, this dog remains a star, whether as a family companion or as a versatile working dog (search, rescue, therapy).

🐕 Breed Profile

The Portuguese Water Dog combines strength, intelligence, and affection. This hyperactive dog is perfect for dynamic families and owners who love outdoor life. With its hypoallergenic coat and playful personality, it makes waves among sports dog enthusiasts.

🔍 In Brief

• Hypoallergenic: Yes 

• Weight: 19-27 kg (males) / 16-22 kg (females)

• Height: 50-57 cm (males) / 43-52 cm (females)

• Life Expectancy: 10-14 years

• Physical Exercise Needed: 1.5 to 2 hours/day

❤️ Personality & Compatibility

• Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Protective: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Sporty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Vocalizations: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (not very barky)

• Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Compatibility

• With children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (gentle and protective)

• With animals: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (good cohabitation after socialization)

• With strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (curious but reserved)

• In an apartment: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (prefers an outdoor space to thrive)

🛠 Hygiene & care

• Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (relatively easy)

• Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

💰 Budget

• Purchase price: 1000-2500 €

• Average annual cost: 800-1000 € (food, veterinary care, grooming)