Who this breed is NOT for
Sedentary homes, people who can't commit to grooming, or anyone wanting a mellow, independent dog.
Bred to do
A Portuguese fishing dog bred to herd fish, retrieve gear, and swim between boats — athletic, smart, and water-loving.
Exercise needs
High — daily vigorous exercise plus mental work; loves swimming and retrieving. A bored 'Portie' gets mischievous.
Temperament
Bright, affectionate, lively, and people-oriented; a real thinker that wants to be involved in everything.
Trainability
Very trainable and eager — excels at obedience, agility, and tricks with positive training.
With kids & pets
A great family dog with kids and other pets; robust and playful.
Living situation
Adapts to many homes with enough exercise; thrives with an active family and access to water and play.
Grooming & shedding
Low-shedding curly/wavy coat — but high maintenance, needing regular brushing and clipping every 6–8 weeks.
Health & costs
Relatively healthy; watch hip dysplasia and some inherited eye and heart conditions — buy from health-tested lines.
Best fit
Active families (including many with mild allergies) who want a smart, trainable, low-shed companion and will keep up the grooming and exercise.
Free guide
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A note from Kerri
'Low-shedding' makes people think 'easy' — it's not; that curly coat is a real grooming commitment. But as a smart, trainable, family-oriented athlete, the Portie is hard to beat, especially if you love the water.
— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love
Gear Kerri recommends
A few things that make this easier. As an Amazon Associate, Floyd's Love earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Portable Leak-Proof Dog Water Bottle with Collapsible Bowl, 10 oz
A leak-proof, one-handed water dispenser, rated highly in [Best Dog Water Bottles of 2026](https://www.treelinereview.com/gearreviews/best-dog-water-bottles), makes it easy to keep your dog hydrated during practice drives and long journeys.
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Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
An effective tool for daily brushing to prevent mats and distribute healthy oils across your dog's coat.
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Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution
A simple supplement to brushing that helps fight bacteria and bad breath, which the content notes is a key sign of dental problems.
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Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Dog Brick Interactive Puzzle Toy
Provides essential mental stimulation to help tire out an anxious dog's brain and reduce nervous energy.
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UPSKY Dog Water Bowl No-Spill Slow Water Feeder
Encourages the "small frequent sips" recommended in the content by preventing dogs from taking big gulps that can trigger vomiting.
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WeatherBeeta Reflective Dog Parka
This insulated, waterproof coat provides essential warmth for short-coated or small dogs during cold winter walks.
Shop thisFloyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.