Quick Answer:
Portuguese Water Dog grooming costs $80-$130 every 4-6 weeks. Their curly, non-shedding coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming to prevent matting. The traditional Lion Cut or Retriever Clip are most popular.
Portuguese Water Dog Grooming Costs
Here's what to expect for professional Portuguese Water Dog grooming based on size and service type:
| Size | Weight | Basic Groom | Full Groom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portuguese Water Dog | 35-60 lbs | $80-$100 | $100-$130 |
Annual grooming costs: $960-$1,560 (based on grooming every 4-6 weeks).
For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.
Portuguese Water Dog Coat Type & Care
PWDs have a thick, curly or wavy single coat that grows continuously. The coat is hypoallergenic and doesn't shed but requires regular grooming. Colors include black, white, brown, or combinations.
| Coat Type | Curly |
| Shedding | Non-shedding (hypoallergenic) |
| Grooming Frequency | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Brushing | Every other day |
| Grooming Difficulty | High |
Popular Portuguese Water Dog Haircuts
Here are the most popular grooming styles for Portuguese Water Dogs:
Lion Cut
Best for: Traditional breed appearance
Hindquarters, muzzle, and base of tail clipped short; full coat on front body and end of tail.
Maintenance: High - regular brushing of long areas
Retriever Clip
Best for: Easier maintenance
Entire coat trimmed to even 1-inch length all over.
Maintenance: Medium - brush every other day
Puppy Cut
Best for: Pet owners wanting simplicity
Even length all over, typically 1-2 inches.
Maintenance: Medium - regular brushing
Working Cut
Best for: Active dogs
Short all over for easier care during water activities.
Maintenance: Low-Medium - regular brushing
Portuguese Water Dog Grooming Schedule
Follow this schedule to keep your Portuguese Water Dog looking and feeling their best:
- Professional grooming: Every 4-6 weeks
- Brushing: Every other day
- Bathing: Every 3-4 weeks
- Nail trimming: Every 2-3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly (especially after swimming)
Puppy Grooming
Start grooming early. Puppy coat is softer and will change to adult coat. Establish regular grooming routine.
Senior Dog Grooming
Older PWDs may prefer simpler clips. Continue regular ear care.
Find a Portuguese Water Dog-experienced groomer
Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with Portuguese Water Dogs and similar breeds.
Find Groomers Near MeCommon Portuguese Water Dog Grooming Problems
Matting
Curly coat mats easily without regular brushing.
Prevention: Brush every other day and maintain regular grooming schedule.
Ear Infections
Hairy ears and love of water make them prone to ear issues.
Prevention: Clean and dry ears thoroughly after swimming.
Coat Cord Formation
Neglected coat can form cords or severe mats.
Prevention: Regular brushing and professional grooming.
At-Home Portuguese Water Dog Grooming
Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your Portuguese Water Dog's coat at home.
Essential Tools
- Slicker brush
- Pin brush
- Metal comb
- Ear cleaner
- Ear drying powder
- Detangling spray
Grooming Tips
- Brush every other day to prevent matting
- Dry ears thoroughly after water activities
- Keep ear hair trimmed or plucked
- Use conditioner to help with brushing
- Maintain regular grooming appointments
Finding a Portuguese Water Dog-Experienced Groomer
Not all groomers are equally experienced with every breed. Here's what to look for when choosing a groomer for your Portuguese Water Dog:
- Find groomers experienced with curly-coated breeds
- Ask about lion cut experience
- Verify they understand PWD coat care
- Ensure proper ear cleaning procedures
For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Portuguese Water Dog grooming cost?▼
$80-$130 per session depending on cut and coat condition.
Do Portuguese Water Dogs shed?▼
No, they are non-shedding but require regular grooming to prevent matting.
How often should a PWD be groomed?▼
Every 4-6 weeks professionally with regular brushing at home.
What is the lion cut?▼
Traditional cut with full coat on front body and clipped hindquarters.
Are Portuguese Water Dogs hypoallergenic?▼
Yes, they are considered hypoallergenic due to their non-shedding coat.
Can PWDs get their ears wet?▼
Yes, but ears must be thoroughly dried afterward to prevent infections.
The Bottom Line
Portuguese Water Dog grooming requires professional appointments every 4-6 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your Portuguese Water Dog looking and feeling their best.
Find a groomer experienced with Portuguese Water Dogs, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your Portuguese Water Dog will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.
Related Breed Guides
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