Curly Coated Retriever vs Portuguese Water Dog: Best Family Pet

If you enjoy spending time near water and want a dog who shares your passion, both the Curly Coated Retriever and the Portuguese Water Dog are exceptional breeds to consider. These historic breeds were developed for retrieving game in challenging wetland environments, making them natural swimmers with a strong affinity for water. Beyond their working roots, both have become treasured family companions.

Origins of the Breeds

The Curly Coated Retriever, introduced to England in the 1800s, is believed to be one of the oldest retriever breeds. It was developed through crossing St. John's Newfoundlands, Poodles, Labradors, and various water spaniels such as the English Water Spaniel and Irish Water Spaniel. This blend resulted in hard-working dogs highly skilled at retrieving in difficult terrains and adverse conditions. They remain sought after for their retrieving talent and loyal companionship.

The Portuguese Water Dog's origins are murky but are thought to include influences from European water dogs and breeds introduced by Moorish traders. Renowned among Portuguese fishermen, these dogs retrieved nets and guarded boats. The breed's documented history dates back to 11th-century monastic records, noting a dog saving a drowning sailor. Their lineage may also involve Poodles, Pulis, Kerry Blue Terriers, and Asian breeds. While less common in the UK, Portuguese Water Dogs are steadily growing in popularity, though pedigree registrations remain limited.

Appearance and Physical Traits

The Curly Coated Retriever stands tall between 64 to 69 cm at the withers (females slightly shorter) and weighs around 32 to 41 kg. Their signature feature is a weather-resistant coat of tight, crisp curls covering the body. Typical colours include:

• Black
• Liver

The Portuguese Water Dog is slightly smaller, ranging from 50 to 57 cm in height and weighing 19 to 25 kg. Their coat also resists water, appearing in two varieties: longer, wavy hair or tight curls enveloping the entire body. Accepted coat colours include:

• Black
• Black and white
• Brown
• Brown and white
• White

Temperament and Suitability for Families

The Curly Coated Retriever is intelligent, loyal, and easy-going but can be wilful during its slow maturation, reaching full maturity around 3 years. They form strong bonds with their owners and can be wary around strangers, though rarely aggressive. They thrive in active households with owners familiar with their needs.

Conversely, the Portuguese Water Dog is outgoing, highly intelligent, and eager to please. They are known for being sociable and particularly good with children of all ages. Their independent streak requires patient and consistent training. These dogs dislike being left alone and may be prone to separation anxiety if not sufficiently engaged.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Both breeds need at least two hours of daily exercise. The Curly Coated Retriever enjoys being active but isn’t excessively demanding, benefiting from off-lead time to roam and explore. The Portuguese Water Dog, with its higher energy levels, demands not only physical activity but also significant mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour.

Grooming and Shedding

Although the Curly Coated Retriever has a curly coat, they shed moderately throughout the year, with increased shedding during seasonal coat changes in spring and autumn.

Portuguese Water Dogs have a hypoallergenic, non-shedding coat that requires regular professional grooming to maintain. Like the Curly Coated Retriever, they shed minimally but need careful coat maintenance to prevent matting.

Health Considerations and Lifespan

Both breeds suffer from various hereditary health issues that responsible breeders work to minimise. Curly Coated Retrievers may face hip dysplasia, epilepsy, eye disorders, and bloat. Portuguese Water Dogs share concerns with hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and bloat. Pre-purchase genetic testing and health screening for breeding stock are vital.

Life expectancy is around 8 to 13 years for the Curly Coated Retriever and a bit longer at 12 to 15 years for the Portuguese Water Dog when properly cared for with a high-quality diet.

Children and Other Pets

The Curly Coated Retriever suits families with older children due to their sometimes boisterous play. They often cohabit well with other dogs and cats if socialised early but should be supervised around smaller pets they don’t know.

Portuguese Water Dogs are generally excellent around children of all ages, though their natural inclination to mouth objects can be challenging with toddlers. They usually bond well with cats and other dogs if raised together and socialised properly.

Training Tips

Both breeds are intelligent and benefit from early, consistent, and positive reinforcement training. Short, engaging sessions help maintain their focus and motivation. Avoid harsh corrections as both respond better to gentle, patient handling.

Which Breed Makes a Better Family Pet?

Aspect	Curly Coated Retriever	Portuguese Water Dog
Child Friendliness	Good with older children	Excellent with children of all ages
Exercise Needs	High, needs outdoor space	High, adaptable but energetic
Grooming	Moderate, sheds moderately	High, hypoallergenic, needs professional grooming
Temperament	Loyal, intelligent, somewhat reserved	Outgoing, sociable, eager to please
Life Expectancy	8 to 13 years	12 to 15 years

For families with young children or allergy concerns, the Portuguese Water Dog often proves a better match due to their sociable nature and hypoallergenic coat. Active families with plenty of space might prefer the Curly Coated Retriever for their independence and versatility. Both breeds thrive with responsible ownership involving socialisation, exercise, grooming, and health care.

Where to Find a Well-Bred Puppy

If you are considering bringing home a puppy, always seek reputable breeders who conduct health screenings and breed responsibly. You can find Curly Coated Retriever puppies and Portuguese Water Dog puppies through trusted UK breeders. Responsible breeders ensure puppies are well-socialised and meet breed standards, offering the best start to a lifelong partnership.

Conclusion

Choosing between a Curly Coated Retriever and a Portuguese Water Dog depends on your family's lifestyle, experience, and preferences. Both breeds are loyal, intelligent, and affectionate, but the Portuguese Water Dog often shines as a highly sociable family pet, especially with children. Meanwhile, the Curly Coated Retriever suits active owners who appreciate their independent and versatile nature. Whichever you choose, responsible ownership, proper socialisation, and care will ensure a happy, healthy companionship.