Portuguese Water Dog

Get to Know Portuguese Water Dogs

• US Presidents Love Them: The breed got a major spotlight when President Barack Obama brought one to the White House—Bo, and later Sunny. It was chosen for being hypoallergenic and great with kids.
• They Have Webbed Feet: Yep, real-deal doggy flippers! Their webbed toes make them powerful swimmers, perfectly designed for working in water alongside fishermen.
• They Don’t Shed Much: Portuguese Water Dogs have hair instead of fur, which means minimal shedding. This makes them a popular choice for allergy sufferers—but it also means high grooming needs!
• They're Born with a Job Mentality: These dogs thrive when they have a task—whether it’s agility training, swimming, fetching, or even just helping carry things. They’re happiest when they’re working.
• They Almost Went Extinct: By the 1930s, the breed was nearly gone. But a wealthy shipping magnate named Vasco Bensaude made it his mission to revive and preserve the Portuguese Water Dog, and the breed owes its comeback to his efforts.

Breed History

The Portuguese Water Dog has a rich history rooted along the coast of Portugal, where it was bred to assist fishermen at sea. These versatile dogs were known for their exceptional swimming ability, diving skills, and intelligence, often tasked with retrieving lost gear, herding fish into nets, and delivering messages between boats. Their waterproof coats and webbed feet made them perfect working companions in the Atlantic waters. Though modern technology reduced their role in the fishing industry, the breed was preserved by enthusiasts in the 20th century and has since become a beloved family companion known for its loyalty, energy, and trainability.