The Portuguese Water Dog is one of exceptional intelligence and trainability, obeying any orders given by Its master with willingness and pleasure. It is obedient both to those who care for it and for whom it works. It has a spirited disposition, is brave and independent, and resistant to fatigue. Its expression is hard and penetrating. They have splendid sight and a fair scenting capability.

The breed is single-coated and has no mane or ruff. The profuse single cost is made up of strong hair that covers the whole body evenly. It is thinner where the forearm meets the brisket and on the groin. There are two acceptable coat varieties: Wavy and Curly.

The Wavy coat is fairly long and rather loose, with a slight sheen. The hair on the top of the head is upright. The hair on the ears is decidedly longer than the ear leather.

The hair of the Curly coat forms compact cylindrical curls that are thickly planted and are somewhat lustrous. The hair on the top of the head is similar to the hair on the body. The hair on the ears is somewhat wavy.

Two clips are acceptable: Lion Clip and Working Retriever Clip........

:LION CLIP -- As soon as the hair grows long, the middle part, hindquarters and muzzle are clipped. The hair at the end of the tail is left at full length.

:WORKING RETRIEVER CLIP -- This clip gives a more natural appearance as well as a smooth, unbroken line. The entire coat is scissored or clipped, following the outline of the dog. A short blanket of coat, no longer than one inch in length, is left. That hair at the end of the tail is left at full length.