Portuguese Water Dog: Health, Grooming, and Care Tips

I know you're here because you love your Portuguese Water Dog, or you're thinking about bringing one into your family. Maybe you've noticed something that's worrying you, or you're trying to get ahead of the curve on grooming and health care. Let me start by saying this: you're doing the right thing by seeking out information. The Portuguese Water Dog is a remarkable breed, intelligent, energetic, and deeply loyal, but like all purebred dogs, they come with their own set of health considerations and care requirements. The good news is that with the right knowledge and proactive management, most of these issues are entirely manageable, and your dog can live a long, happy, and healthy life. This guide is designed to be your comprehensive, go-to resource, covering everything from common health problems to grooming routines, personality traits, and what to do in an emergency. Let's dive in.

⚠️ Red-Flag Emergency Box

⚠️ Emergency: Go to the nearest veterinary ER immediately if your Portuguese Water Dog shows any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing: Labored breathing, rapid shallow breaths, blue or pale gums, or collapse.
• Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness: This could indicate a heart problem, seizure, or severe internal bleeding.
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea: Especially if it contains blood (bright red or dark, tarry) or if your dog is unable to keep water down and is becoming lethargic.
• Sudden onset of weakness or paralysis: Especially in the hind legs, which can be a sign of a spinal issue or a blood clot.
• Seizures: A single seizure lasting more than 2-3 minutes, or multiple seizures in a short period.
• Known or suspected toxin ingestion: Including chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol (artificial sweetener), certain plants, or human medications.
• Severe allergic reaction: Swelling of the face, muzzle, or throat; hives; or difficulty breathing.
• Eye injury or sudden blindness: A bulging eye, a visible injury, or sudden loss of vision.
• Bloated or distended abdomen: Especially if accompanied by unproductive retching or signs of pain. This is a sign of Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), a life-threatening emergency.
• Heatstroke: Excessive panting, drooling, bright red gums, weakness, or collapse after exposure to heat or exercise.

What You're Seeing and What It Likely Means

As a veterinarian, I see a lot of Portuguese Water Dogs in my practice. They are generally a robust breed, but they have a few breed-specific tendencies that owners should be aware of. When you bring your PWD in for a checkup, I'm not just looking at them as a dog, I'm looking at them as a Portuguese Water Dog, with a specific set of genetic predispositions.

Common Health Issues in Portuguese Water Dogs

Let's break down the most common health concerns you might encounter. This isn't meant to scare you, but to empower you with knowledge.

Hip Dysplasia

This is a common orthopedic issue in many medium-to-large breed dogs, and the PWD is no exception. Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint where the ball and socket don't fit together properly. Instead of a smooth, gliding motion, there's friction and instability. Over time, this leads to arthritis, pain, and lameness. You might notice your dog:

• Bunny-hopping when running (moving both hind legs together)
• Reluctance to jump onto furniture or into the car
• Stiffness after lying down, especially in the morning
• A swaying gait in the hindquarters
• Difficulty rising from a lying or sitting position

The condition is influenced by both genetics and environmental factors like rapid growth, improper nutrition, and excessive exercise on developing joints. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) recommends screening breeding dogs for hip dysplasia through X-rays. A dog with a good or excellent hip score is less likely to pass the condition to its offspring.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is a group of genetic diseases that cause the retina to deteriorate over time, leading to progressive vision loss and eventually blindness. It's a painless condition, and many dogs adapt remarkably well to losing their sight, especially if it happens gradually. You might notice:

• Bumping into furniture or walls, especially in low light
• Hesitation when going up or down stairs
• Difficulty finding toys or food bowls
• A dilated pupil that doesn't constrict normally in bright light
• A reflective shine in the eyes at night (due to the retina thinning)

PRA is an inherited condition, and responsible breeders will have their dogs tested for the specific genetic mutations known to affect the breed. The Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) maintains a registry of dogs that have been cleared of heritable eye diseases.

Juvenile Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

This is a serious, often fatal, heart condition that can affect young Portuguese Water Dogs, typically between 6 months and 2 years of age. In DCM, the heart muscle becomes weak and enlarged, and it can't pump blood effectively. This can lead to congestive heart failure or sudden cardiac arrest. Symptoms can be subtle or sudden:

• Lethargy and weakness
• Coughing, especially at night or after exercise
• Rapid or labored breathing
• Fainting or collapse
• A distended abdomen (due to fluid accumulation)

Juvenile DCM is a devastating condition, and it's one of the reasons why it's so important to get a puppy from a breeder who performs cardiac screening on their breeding stock. A veterinary cardiologist can perform an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) to diagnose the condition.

Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)

Addison's disease is an endocrine disorder where the adrenal glands don't produce enough cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones are crucial for managing stress, maintaining blood pressure, and regulating electrolyte balance. The symptoms can be vague and intermittent, which makes it a "great imitator" in veterinary medicine. Common signs include:

• Intermittent vomiting and diarrhea
• Lethargy and depression
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Increased thirst and urination
• Shaking or trembling
• Sudden collapse (an "Addisonian crisis") triggered by stress

Addison's disease is more common in young to middle-aged female dogs, and the Portuguese Water Dog is one of the breeds with a known predisposition. Diagnosis is made through a specific blood test called an ACTH stimulation test.

Allergies

Portuguese Water Dogs can be prone to allergies, just like many other breeds. Allergies can manifest in three main ways:

• Atopic Dermatitis (Environmental Allergies): Reactions to pollen, mold, dust mites, or grass. This typically causes itchy skin, especially on the paws, face, ears, and belly. You'll see licking, chewing, rubbing, and scratching.
• Food Allergies: Reactions to a specific protein or carbohydrate source in the diet. This also causes itchy skin, but it can also lead to chronic ear infections and gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea.
• Flea Allergy Dermatitis: An allergic reaction to flea saliva. Even a single flea bite can cause intense itching and hair loss, especially on the lower back and tail base.

Managing allergies often involves a multi-modal approach: identifying and avoiding triggers, using medicated shampoos, providing omega-3 fatty acid supplements, and, in some cases, using prescription medications like antihistamines, steroids, or newer immunomodulatory drugs.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV or Bloat)

This is a life-threatening emergency that I cannot emphasize enough. GDV occurs when the stomach fills with gas (dilatation) and then twists on itself (volvulus). This cuts off blood supply to the stomach and other organs, leading to shock and rapid death if not treated immediately. Deep-chested, large-breed dogs like the Portuguese Water Dog are at higher risk. Signs include:

• A distended, hard abdomen
• Unproductive retching or gagging (trying to vomit but nothing comes up)
• Restlessness and pacing
• Excessive drooling
• Signs of pain (whining, looking at the abdomen)
• Rapid breathing
• Weakness and collapse

If you suspect bloat, do not wait. Do not call your regular vet. Go to the nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Time is measured in minutes, not hours.

The Personality of a Portuguese Water Dog

Beyond the health issues, understanding your dog's personality is key to providing the right care and environment. The Portuguese Water Dog is a working breed, originally bred to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle, and carry messages between boats. This history has shaped a dog that is:

• Intelligent and Eager to Please: They are highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports. They thrive on mental stimulation and positive reinforcement training.
• Energetic and Athletic: They need a significant amount of daily exercise, at least 45-60 minutes of vigorous activity. A bored PWD can become destructive, barking excessively, digging, or chewing furniture.
• Loyal and Affectionate: They form strong bonds with their families and are often described as "velcro dogs" who want to be with you all the time. They are generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized.
• Alert and Protective: They make excellent watchdogs and will bark to alert you to anything unusual. However, they are not typically aggressive.
• Water-Loving: As their name suggests, they have a natural affinity for water. They have webbed feet and a waterproof coat, making them excellent swimmers. This is a great way to exercise them.
• Independent Streak: While they are eager to please, they can also be a bit stubborn. Consistent, patient training is essential.

A Portuguese Water Dog is not a couch potato. They are a high-energy, high-intelligence breed that needs a job to do. If you can provide that, you'll have an incredibly rewarding companion.

What You Can Safely Do Right Now

If your Portuguese Water Dog is showing mild symptoms that don't meet the emergency criteria above, here are some things you can do at home to provide comfort and monitor the situation.

For Mild Skin Irritation or Itching

1. Check for Fleas: Use a fine-toothed flea comb to check your dog's coat, especially around the tail base, lower back, and inner thighs. Look for live fleas (small, dark, fast-moving insects) or "flea dirt" (tiny black specks that look like pepper). If you see flea dirt, place it on a wet paper towel, if it turns reddish-brown, it's digested blood, confirming fleas.
2. Give a Cool Bath: Use a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo formulated for dogs. Avoid human shampoos, which can strip the natural oils from their skin. A cool (not cold) bath can soothe irritated skin. You can also add a colloidal oatmeal product to the bathwater for extra relief.
3. Apply a Cool Compress: For localized hot spots or itchy areas, apply a clean, cool, damp cloth for 10-15 minutes several times a day.
4. Use an Elizabethan Collar (E-Collar): If your dog is licking or chewing at a specific spot, prevent them from doing so. An E-collar (the "cone of shame") is the most effective way to allow the skin to heal. You can also use a soft, inflatable collar or a recovery suit.
5. Consider a Short-Term Antihistamine: Always consult your veterinarian first for the correct dosage. In some cases, a veterinarian may recommend a specific antihistamine like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) for mild allergic reactions. Never give any medication without first checking with your vet, as dosages vary based on weight and some dogs have underlying conditions that make certain drugs unsafe.

For Mild Vomiting or Diarrhea (No Blood, Dog is Acting Normal)

1. Withhold Food for 12-24 Hours: This gives the gastrointestinal tract a chance to rest. Make sure fresh, clean water is always available.
2. Offer a Bland Diet: After the fasting period, offer small, frequent meals of a bland diet. A common recipe is boiled, skinless, boneless chicken breast (or lean ground turkey) mixed with plain white rice (or boiled sweet potato). Feed small amounts (e.g., a tablespoon for a small dog, a quarter cup for a large dog) every 2-3 hours.
3. Monitor Hydration: Check for signs of dehydration by gently lifting the skin on the back of their neck. If it snaps back quickly, they are well-hydrated. If it stays tented or returns slowly, they are dehydrated and need veterinary attention. Also check for tacky or sticky gums.
4. Add a Probiotic: A canine-specific probiotic supplement can help restore healthy gut bacteria. You can find these at pet stores or online.
5. Gradually Reintroduce Normal Food: Over the next 2-3 days, slowly mix the bland diet with their regular food, gradually increasing the proportion of regular food.

For Mild Lameness or Stiffness

1. Rest: Confine your dog to a small, quiet area for 24-48 hours. No running, jumping, playing, or going up and down stairs. Short, leashed walks for bathroom breaks only.
2. Apply a Cold Pack: For a sudden injury (like a sprain), apply a cold pack wrapped in a thin towel to the affected area for 15 minutes, several times a day, for the first 24-48 hours. This helps reduce inflammation.
3. Apply a Warm Pack: For chronic stiffness or arthritis, a warm pack can help soothe sore muscles and joints. Apply for 15-20 minutes.
4. Provide a Comfortable Bed: Orthopedic or memory foam beds can make a huge difference for dogs with joint pain.

When to Call Your Veterinarian

These are "yellow-light" situations. They are not emergencies, but they warrant a call to your regular veterinarian for advice and to schedule an appointment.

• Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours or is accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite, or blood.
• Coughing that persists for more than a few days or is accompanied by lethargy, difficulty breathing, or a change in appetite.
• A lump or bump that is growing, changing shape, or seems to be bothering your dog.
• Sudden weight loss or gain without a change in diet or exercise.
• Increased thirst and urination (polydipsia/polyuria), which can be a sign of diabetes, kidney disease, or Cushing's disease.
• Changes in behavior, such as increased aggression, anxiety, or confusion.
• Ear infections: Signs include head shaking, scratching at the ears, a foul odor, or discharge. Chronic ear infections are common in PWDs due to their floppy ears and potential for allergies.
• Eye discharge or redness that doesn't resolve within a day.
• Bad breath (halitosis) or difficulty eating, which can indicate dental disease.
• A persistent limp that doesn't improve with 24-48 hours of rest.
• Any symptom that you are worried about. Trust your gut. You know your dog better than anyone.

What Your Vet Will Do

When you bring your Portuguese Water Dog to the vet for a specific concern, here's a general idea of what to expect. The exact steps will depend on the symptoms.

The Examination

The veterinarian will start with a thorough physical examination, which includes:

• Vital Signs: Temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and pulse quality.
• General Appearance: Body condition score, hydration status, and demeanor.
• Head to Toe: Examining the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, teeth, and gums. Palpating the lymph nodes, abdomen, and spine. Listening to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope. Checking the skin and coat for any abnormalities. Evaluating the joints for range of motion and signs of pain.

Common Diagnostic Tests

Based on the exam findings, your vet may recommend one or more of the following:

Treatment Plans

Treatment will be tailored to the diagnosis. For example:

• Hip Dysplasia: Weight management, joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s), physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and in severe cases, surgery (e.g., total hip replacement).
• PRA: No cure exists. Management focuses on helping the dog adapt to vision loss through environmental consistency, scent markers, and avoiding moving furniture.
• Juvenile DCM: Emergency stabilization, medications to support heart function (e.g., pimobendan, diuretics, ACE inhibitors), and a guarded prognosis.
• Addison's Disease: Lifelong medication with a mineralocorticoid (e.g., desoxycorticosterone pivalate injection or oral fludrocortisone) and sometimes a glucocorticoid (e.g., prednisone). Regular monitoring is required.
• Allergies: A multi-modal approach including allergen avoidance, medicated shampoos, fatty acid supplements, antihistamines, and immunomodulatory drugs (e.g., oclacitinib or lokivetmab).
• GDV: Emergency surgery to untwist the stomach and tack it to the body wall (gastropexy) to prevent recurrence. Intensive post-operative care is required.

Common Causes, A Deeper Look

Let's explore some of the underlying causes of the health issues we've discussed, drawing on the academic literature you provided.

The Role of Genetics and Breed Predisposition

The health issues common in Portuguese Water Dogs are largely rooted in their genetic history. As a purebred breed, they have a relatively closed gene pool, which means that certain recessive genetic mutations can become more prevalent. This is why responsible breeding practices, including health screening, are so critical.

• Hip Dysplasia: This is a polygenic trait, meaning it's influenced by multiple genes. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and the PennHIP method are used to evaluate hip conformation. A dog with a poor hip score should not be bred.
• PRA: Several specific genetic mutations have been identified in PWDs. A DNA test is available to identify carriers and affected dogs. Responsible breeders will only breed dogs that are "clear" (non-carriers) of the mutation.
• Juvenile DCM: This is a devastating, likely inherited condition. Research is ongoing to identify the specific genetic mutation(s) involved. Currently, screening involves echocardiograms by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist.
• Addison's Disease: While the exact inheritance pattern is not fully understood, it is known to have a strong genetic component in certain breeds, including the PWD. It is thought to be an immune-mediated destruction of the adrenal gland tissue.

The Gut-Brain-Skin Axis and Allergies

The concept of the "gut-brain-skin axis" is a fascinating area of research that is highly relevant to allergic disease in dogs. The literature on mother-young communication and behavioral disorders in domestic mammals (Mota-Rojas et al., 2025) touches on the profound impact of early life experiences on the developing neuroendocrine and immune systems. Stress, whether from early weaning, poor maternal care, or environmental factors, can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to increased intestinal permeability ("leaky gut"). This allows partially digested food particles and bacterial toxins to enter the bloodstream, triggering a systemic inflammatory response that can manifest as skin inflammation (atopic dermatitis) and other allergic conditions.

Furthermore, the skin itself has its own microbiome and a complex neuroendocrine system. Stress can directly affect the skin's barrier function and immune response, making it more susceptible to allergens and infections. This is why managing stress and providing a stable, enriched environment is an important part of managing allergies in dogs.

The Impact of Parasites

Parasites, both internal and external, can cause a wide range of health problems. The literature on tick control (Golo et al., 2026; Schröder, 2024) highlights the ongoing challenge of ectoparasites. Ticks are not just a nuisance; they are vectors for serious diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. The Portuguese Water Dog's love of water and the outdoors puts them at higher risk for tick exposure.

Advances in the use of entomopathogenic fungi (Golo et al., 2026) represent a promising, environmentally friendly approach to tick control. These are naturally occurring fungi that infect and kill ticks. While not yet widely available as a commercial product for dogs, this research points to a future where we may have more sustainable options for parasite prevention.

For now, the cornerstone of parasite prevention is the use of a monthly, broad-spectrum preventive that covers heartworms, intestinal parasites, fleas, and ticks. Your veterinarian can recommend the best product for your dog's lifestyle and risk factors.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Veterinary Care

The field of veterinary medicine is rapidly evolving, and artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly important role (Ghavi Hossein-Zadeh, 2025). AI is being used in several ways that can directly benefit your Portuguese Water Dog:

• Diagnostic Imaging: AI algorithms can analyze X-rays and CT scans to detect subtle signs of hip dysplasia, spinal issues, or tumors that might be missed by the human eye.
• Genetic Analysis: AI can help analyze vast amounts of genetic data to identify new disease-associated mutations and predict an individual dog's risk for developing certain conditions.
• Telemedicine: AI-powered chatbots and triage tools can help owners determine the urgency of their dog's symptoms and provide initial guidance, though they can never replace a physical exam by a veterinarian.
• Personalized Medicine: In the future, AI may help create individualized treatment plans based on a dog's unique genetic profile, microbiome, and lifestyle.

While AI is a powerful tool, it is important to remember that it is a tool to assist, not replace, the clinical judgment of a trained veterinarian.

Prevention: Long-Term Strategies

Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are the most important long-term strategies for keeping your Portuguese Water Dog healthy.

1. Choose a Responsible Breeder

This is the single most important decision you will make. A responsible breeder will:

• Health Screen Their Breeding Dogs: They will provide documentation of OFA hip and elbow evaluations, CERF eye exams, and cardiac screening (echocardiograms) for their breeding stock. They will also test for the PRA genetic mutation.
• Be Knowledgeable About the Breed: They can discuss the breed's history, temperament, and health concerns in detail.
• Provide a Health Guarantee: They will offer a written contract that covers genetic health issues for a specified period.
• Be Transparent: They will welcome you to visit their facility, meet the puppy's parents, and ask questions.
• Take Back the Dog: They will have a clause in their contract stating that they will take the dog back at any point in its life if you can no longer care for it.

Avoid puppy mills, pet stores, and online sellers who cannot provide this level of transparency and health documentation.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is a major contributor to many health problems, including hip dysplasia, arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. Keep your PWD at a lean, healthy body condition. You should be able to feel their ribs easily with a thin layer of fat over them, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above. Work with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate daily calorie intake and feeding schedule.

3. Provide Appropriate Exercise

Portuguese Water Dogs need a lot of exercise, but it's important to be smart about it.

• Puppies: Avoid high-impact activities like running on hard surfaces, jumping, and repetitive stair climbing until their growth plates have closed (around 12-18 months of age). This helps protect their developing joints.
• Adults: Aim for at least 45-60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. This can include swimming, running, hiking, fetch, agility, or obedience training. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, nose work, and training sessions can tire them out just as much as a long run.
• Seniors: Adjust exercise to their comfort level. Shorter, more frequent walks, swimming (which is low-impact), and gentle play are excellent options.

4. Commit to a Grooming Routine

The Portuguese Water Dog's coat is one of its most distinctive features, but it requires significant commitment. They have a single-layer, non-shedding coat that grows continuously. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies, but it also means they need regular grooming to prevent matting.

How Often Should I Groom a Portuguese Water Dog?

This is one of the most common questions I get. The answer is: frequently and consistently.

Grooming Tips:

• Start Early: Get your puppy used to being handled and groomed from a young age. Make it a positive experience with treats and praise.
• Work in Sections: When brushing, part the hair and brush in small sections from the skin outward. This is the best way to prevent and remove mats.
• Never Brush a Dry Mat: If you find a mat, try to work it out with your fingers or a dematting tool. If it's too tight, it's safer to have it shaved out by a professional. Brushing a dry mat can be painful and damage the coat.
• Use the Right Tools: Invest in a high-quality slicker brush, a metal greyhound comb, and a pair of blunt-nosed grooming shears for trimming around the paws and face.

5. Feed a High-Quality Diet

Feed a complete and balanced diet that is appropriate for your dog's life stage (puppy, adult, senior). Look for a food that lists a named protein source (e.g., chicken, lamb, fish) as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with excessive fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. Your veterinarian can help you choose the best diet for your individual dog.

6. Schedule Regular Veterinary Checkups

Annual or semi-annual wellness exams are crucial for early detection of health problems. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam, update vaccinations, and recommend routine preventive care like heartworm testing and fecal exams. As your dog ages (typically around 7-8 years old), your vet may recommend senior bloodwork and other screening tests to catch age-related diseases early.

7. Consider Pet Insurance

Veterinary care can be expensive, especially for emergencies or chronic conditions. Pet insurance can help offset the cost of unexpected medical bills. Look for a policy that covers accidents, illnesses, and hereditary conditions (like hip dysplasia and PRA). It's best to enroll your dog when they are young and healthy, before any pre-existing conditions develop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common questions I get from Portuguese Water Dog owners, targeting long-tail search queries.

1. Are Portuguese Water Dogs hypoallergenic? No dog is 100% hypoallergenic, but the Portuguese Water Dog is often considered a good choice for people with mild allergies. They have a single-layer, non-shedding coat that produces less dander (the primary allergen) than many other breeds. However, they still produce dander and saliva, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Regular grooming and bathing can help minimize allergens.

2. How much exercise does a Portuguese Water Dog need? A Portuguese Water Dog needs a significant amount of daily exercise, at least 45-60 minutes of vigorous activity. This should include a mix of physical exercise (running, swimming, hiking) and mental stimulation (training, puzzle toys, nose work). A bored PWD can become destructive and develop behavioral problems.

3. Are Portuguese Water Dogs good with kids? Yes, generally, they are excellent family dogs. They are affectionate, playful, and patient with children. However, like any dog, they should be properly socialized from a young age, and interactions with young children should always be supervised. Their high energy level can sometimes be overwhelming for very small children, so it's important to teach children how to interact respectfully with the dog.

4. What is the lifespan of a Portuguese Water Dog? The average lifespan of a Portuguese Water Dog is 11-14 years. With excellent care, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and preventive veterinary medicine, many live well into their teens.

5. Do Portuguese Water Dogs bark a lot? They can be vocal. They are alert dogs and will bark to alert you to anything unusual. They may also bark out of excitement, boredom, or frustration. With proper training and sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, excessive barking can be managed. They are not typically considered nuisance barkers, but they are not a silent breed.

6. Are Portuguese Water Dogs easy to train? Yes, they are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them very trainable. They excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports. However, they can also have an independent streak, so consistent, positive reinforcement training is key. Harsh training methods are counterproductive with this sensitive breed.

7. What is the difference between a "retriever clip" and a "lion clip"? These are the two most common grooming styles for the breed.

• Retriever Clip: The body hair is clipped short (about 1-2 inches), while the hair on the legs, tail, and head is left longer. This is a practical, low-maintenance clip that is popular for active dogs.
• Lion Clip: The hindquarters and tail are shaved completely, while the front half of the body and head are left with a full, fluffy mane. This is a more traditional show clip and requires more maintenance.

8. How can I find a reputable Portuguese Water Dog breeder? Start by contacting the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America (PWDCA). They maintain a list of breeder referrals. A reputable breeder will be a member of the national breed club, health screen their breeding dogs, provide references, and ask you as many questions as you ask them. They will be invested in placing their puppies in the best possible homes. Be prepared to be on a waiting list.

References

1. Bleuer-Elsner, S. (2023). Veterinary Psychiatry of the Cat: Diagnosis and Treatment of Behavioral Disorders. DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-06260-4. [Elsevier/Scopus]
2. Golo, P. S., et al. (2026). Advances in the use of entomopathogenic fungi to control ixodid ticks. Revista Brasileira De Parasitologia Veterinaria. DOI: 10.1590/S1984-29612026004. [Elsevier/Scopus]
3. Ghavi Hossein-Zadeh, N. (2025). Artificial intelligence in veterinary and animal science: applications, challenges, and future prospects. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture. DOI: 10.1016/j.compag.2025.110395. [Elsevier/Scopus]
4. Schröder, J. (2024). Livestock Immunity to Ticks. DOI: 10.1079/9781800625761.0000. [Elsevier/Scopus]
5. Mota-Rojas, D., et al. (2025). Failure in the mother-young communication in domestic mammals: endocrine and behavioral aspects. Frontiers in Veterinary Science. DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1589916. [Elsevier/Scopus]
6. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). (n.d.). Hip Dysplasia. Retrieved from ofa.org.
7. Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF). (n.d.). Eye Disease Registry. Retrieved from vmdb.org/cerf.html.
8. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). (n.d.). Pet Health. Retrieved from avma.org.
9. Merck Veterinary Manual. (n.d.). Retrieved from merckvetmanual.com.
10. World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). (n.d.). Global Veterinary Community. Retrieved from wsava.org.

Two Portuguese Water Dogs enjoying a day at the beach, a perfect example of their love for water and the outdoors.

A fluffy black Portuguese Water Dog indoors, showcasing the breed's characteristic curly coat that requires regular grooming.

A wet Portuguese Water Dog in profile, highlighting their webbed feet and waterproof coat, adaptations for their historical role as water workers.

This guide is a starting point for your journey with a Portuguese Water Dog. Remember, your veterinarian is your best partner in your dog's health care. Never hesitate to reach out to them with any questions or concerns. You've got this, and your PWD is lucky to have you.