Portuguese Water Dog grooming: brushing, bathing and shedding
A practical grooming routine for the Portuguese Water Dog: coat care, baths, nails and ears.
Grooming is a real commitment. The coat never stops growing, so most dogs need clipping every six to eight weeks. Between clips, brush two or three times a week down to the skin, paying attention to behind the ears, the armpits and the beard. Wet coats mat faster, so dry thoroughly after swimming.
Hair grows in the ear canal and moisture collects easily in dropped ears, so dry them after water play and ask your groomer or vet about hair removal. Trim nails every three to four weeks and clip the hair between the pads to help with grip on smooth floors.
Portuguese Water Dog grooming in numbers
This is an illustrative schedule based on our editorial grooming score, not a breed-specific care protocol. Coat condition, skin problems and professional advice may call for a different routine.
| Task | Planning example |
|---|---|
| Brushing | 4 to 5 times a week |
| Bathing | Every 3 to 6 weeks |
| Shedding | Minimal |
| Nail trim | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Ear check | Weekly |
| Teeth | Daily brushing; introduce gently and ask your vet if the mouth seems painful |
Coat
A single coat with no undercoat, either tight compact curls or loose shiny waves, which grows continuously and sheds very little.
Grooming needs
Shedding
Drooling