Do Portuguese Water Dogs Shed a Lot? Vet-Reviewed Care & Grooming Tips

Whether wavy or tight curls, the Portuguese Water Dog has low-shedding hair like their cousin, the Poodle. While every dog sheds, with the Portuguese Water Dog, you certainly won't find fur tufts rolling down your hallway like you might from a double-coated breed like the Siberian Husky. Instead of spending your time investing in lint brushes and rakes, you'll simply need to brush your pup several times a week with a slicker brush to prevent mats. Since they don't really shed, they'll also need a haircut every month or two.

The Portuguese Water Dog has a low-shedding coat and is therefore considered more allergy-friendly, which may make it a suitable option for some people with mild dog allergies, although individual reactions can vary.

About the Portuguese Water Dog’s Coat

Per the breed standard by the American Kennel Club, Portuguese Water Dogs have a single coat that sheds very little. They're usually solid-colored in white, brown, or black, but some markings are allowed. Since they have a single layer of fur, they shed minimally, similar to how humans lose a little of their hair each day.

Still, what do you need to do with their hair? For one thing, you should know that a slicker brush is an essential tool in order to reach their skin. Surface-level brushing can contribute to matting, so you’ll need to use gentle pressure to ensure you’re brushing thoroughly. Your Portuguese Water Dog will need brushing at least three times a week.

Are Portuguese Water Dogs Hypoallergenic?

It's important to realize that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. When a human experiences an allergic reaction to dogs, their body is actually responding to a protein found in the animal's dander and saliva. Dogs considered to be hypoallergenic are generally low-shedding, which can result in less dander spreading in the environment, which is what triggers a lot of allergies. Some breeds, like the Portuguese Water Dog, are often considered more allergy-friendly, although evidence that specific breeds produce fewer allergens is limited.

Thus, someone who's severely allergic to dogs probably won't find sufficient relief even if they choose a breed of dog considered hypoallergenic. Someone who only experiences mild symptoms, however, might be okay with a breed like the Portuguese Water Dog. Their likelihood of success is greater, especially when combined with other methods of dealing with the problem, such as vacuuming frequently and taking allergy medication.

The 3 Most Popular Portuguese Water Dog Haircuts

Are you thinking about adopting a PWD or looking for a better way to style their locks? Here are three haircuts that are a perfect match for their hair type.

1. Retriever Clip

Most people choose a retriever-type clip for their Portuguese Water Dog. This style looks similar to a puppy cut in that it's the same length all the way around. However, the hair on the head is left a little longer to create a fluffy domed appearance. The fur on the paws is slightly longer and rounded. Finally, the fur on the tail is also longer. Depending on whether they have a curly or wavy coat, this results in a plume or a cute ball at the end. 

2. Lion Clip

If you want to make a statement, the lion clip is another popular choice. This style leaves the fur on the front long while shaving the back end. A little bit of fur is left on the tail, which completes the look.

3. Summer Cut

If your dog likes to make waves, trimming down their wavy hair can be a good idea to prevent matting. Some pet parents love the summer cut because it's a low-maintenance choice. For this look, the fur is trimmed quite short, though not too close to the skin to avoid irritation or sun exposure. Regular brushing is still essential to prevent matting as their fur grows back.

Conclusion

The Portuguese Water Dog sheds minimally. While you won't deal with pesky fur tumbleweeds, you will need to invest in a slicker brush and make an appointment with a local groomer every month or so for a trim. The Portuguese Water Dog is considered a hypoallergenic breed that may be suitable for someone mildly allergic to dogs. Their protective yet gentle demeanor also suits them well for a family home or with an active individual who loves to spend their free time outside. These dogs are usually trimmed in several styles. Their activity level, coupled with your lifestyle and preferences, should help you decide on the 'do that's best for you and your pup.

• See Also: How Big Will Portuguese Water Dogs Get?

Featured Image Credit: Lynda McFaul, Shutterstock