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Portuguese Water Dog — Grooming Guide
How Often to Groom
- Brushing: Daily (ideal) or at least 3–4 times per week
- Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly
- Bathing: Every 3–4 weeks
- Full haircut: Every 4–8 weeks
About the Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dogs have a dense, curly or wavy, non‑shedding coat that grows continuously. They mat easily if not brushed regularly, especially behind the ears, in the armpits, and around the tail base. Their coat requires routine brushing, bathing, drying, and trimming to stay healthy and manageable.
Before You Start
Your PWD Bathing Package includes everything needed to bathe this breed safely, including a Shampoo Dilution Bottle and a Moisturizing Shampoo for curly coats. Your Grooming Package includes the tools needed for brushing, de‑matting, drying, and maintaining their coat between trims.
Portuguese Water Dog Bathing Package
Shop the recommended bathing package here:
Moisturizing Bathing Package
- Moisturizing Shampoo
- Shampoo Dilution Bottle
- Shammy Towel
- Microfiber Towel
Portuguese Water Dog Grooming Package
Shop the recommended grooming package here:
Moisturizing Grooming Package
- Slicker Brush
- Metal Comb
- Dematting Comb
- Thinning Shears
- Conditioning Spray (trial size)
Portuguese Water Dog Care Package
Shop the full care package here:
Care Package
- Ear Cleaner
- Eye Wipes
- Paw Balm
- Nail Clippers
Additional Grooming Tools
- High‑Velocity Dryer (HV Dryer)
- Grooming Arm
- Clippers (for full trims)
- Clipper Blades (varies by style)
- Extra Shammy Towel
- Extra Microfiber Towel
Step‑By‑Step Grooming Guide
1. Brush the Coat
Use a slicker brush to remove tangles and lift the coat.
Follow with a metal comb to check for hidden mats.
Use a dematting comb gently for stubborn areas.
2. Clean the Ears
Use ear cleaner and cotton to wipe the outer ear weekly.
PWDs are prone to ear infections due to moisture.
3. Trim the Nails
Trim every 2–3 weeks.
Short nails help maintain proper posture and prevent slipping.
4. Bathe the Portuguese Water Dog
Bathe every 3–4 weeks using diluted moisturizing shampoo.
Rinse thoroughly — curly coats trap soap easily.
5. Dry the Coat
Use a shammy towel, then a microfiber towel.
Finish with an HV dryer while brushing to straighten and fluff the coat for trimming.
6. Full Haircut
Popular trims include:
- Retriever Clip (even all over)
- Lion Clip (traditional breed trim)
- Teddy Bear Clip (rounded, fluffy look)
Trim every 4–8 weeks depending on coat length.
7. Apply Leave‑In Conditioner
Work a small amount through the coat to reduce dryness, prevent tangles, and add shine.
Coat Notes
Portuguese Water Dogs do not shed, but they do mat. Regular brushing and proper drying are essential to prevent painful tangles.
Final Thoughts
PWDs are high‑maintenance but incredibly rewarding to groom. A consistent routine keeps their coat healthy, beautiful, and mat‑free.
FAQ
How often should a Portuguese Water Dog be groomed?
Daily brushing; full haircut every 4–8 weeks.
Should you shave a Portuguese Water Dog?
Yes — clipping is appropriate for this breed, but never shave to the skin.
How do you prevent matting?
Daily brushing, HV drying, and regular trims.
How often should you bathe them?
Every 3–4 weeks.
But these tools pay for themselves faster than you think.
A typical groom costs $70–$120. If you go every 4–6 weeks, the tools usually pay for themselves in 3–5 grooms.
But the money isn't even the biggest part.
- You know exactly how your dog is being treated.
- No contamination from other dogs.
- No chance of your dog being drugged without your knowledge.
- No rough handling behind closed doors.
- No stress from loud salons or unfamiliar animals.
- Your dog stays in the place they feel safest — home.
Your dog trusts you more than anyone. Grooming them yourself honors that trust.
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