A Portuguese Water Dog standing on a wooden sea bridge.
The Portuguese Water Dog (PWD) which is the athletic and hardworking fishermen’s aid is estimated to cost anywhere between $1,500 to $2,500. Those who have superior lineages can be bought at a higher price of $3,500 or more.
It all depends on what certain factors come into play and we will be discussing all of them here. As a potential owner, the one-time cost isn’t what you just have to think about. There are other more expenses to consider when it comes to owning a dog as a pet.
This fairly rare breed lives for up to 15 years and that means taking care of his daily, monthly, to yearly needs. We’ll learn, later on, how much it would averagely cost having this wonderful breed former President Obama brought to the White House.
Varying Prices of the Portuguese Water Dog
Same with other dogs, getting a PWD is a responsibility. He is a serious investment too for those who are thinking about starting a breeding business. Due to being an uncommon breed, finding one that’s available can be hard work, but if you ever do, the price may come at a different figure.
Reputable Breeders
A Portie dog that comes from a reputable breeder is priced reasonably. There are documents and other health certificates that would add assurance to your end that your puppy is free from serious health issues and that he’s been raised in a socialized environment.
Trusted breeders pour in their time, resources, and commitment to produce healthy Portuguese Water puppies for their clients. As a range, the common price can go anywhere between $1,500 to $3,000.
Pet Quality
The price set by a trusted breeder would depend on the quality of the Portie you are getting. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has provided the breed standards for this dog. However, a Portie that’s deemed to be of pet quality would have one or more faults that would disqualify him from dog shows.
This doesn’t mean he’s unhealthy though. The dog remains robust only that, appearance-wise, he’s not fit to compete with the others who achieve the ideal proportions.
With that, a pet-quality dog is sold at a much cheaper price.
Show Quality
Show quality Porties on the other hand, are the ones who pass the breed standards. Not one fault is seen in the dog, so he is suitable to join dog shows and other contests. With the right proportions of the dog, breeders would typically charge more.
Adoption
Adopting a dog is the most recommended of all. There are thousands that end up in shelter homes worldwide and there’s a big chance that a Portuguese Water Dog is up for adoption. Normally, an adoption center would ask a fee of $300 to cover the expenses of caring for the dog before you proceed to bring him home.
Puppy Mills
Puppy mills are run by backyard breeders and usually, they would try to charge a price level to that which is set by reputable breeders. Unsuspecting clients wouldn’t have an idea concerning the health status of the dog and if they’re getting a purebred puppy or not.
In some instances, puppies from the mill would be sold at a cheaper cost and that has to be taken as a red flag. Chances are that the Portuguese Water Dog is sickly and the breeder is in a haste on getting rid of it.
Beware that countless pet stores get their puppies from backyard breeders. For as little as $75 per puppy, they can have a profit of over hundreds to thousands of dollars once the dog is set on display for the public.
7 Factors That Influence the Price
It isn’t just the source that heavily influences how the prices would go for every Portie dog. If you go for a reputable breeder, you might raise an eyebrow and wonder why the price is set “too high”.
We have the answer to that inquiry. Here are seven factors that dictate the price of a Portuguese Water Dog:
Breeder’s Reputation
Experienced breeders, especially those who are renowned for their excellent puppies can charge a much higher price tag for each of their Portuguese dogs. Their expertise in the field is tested and proven by many.
They are highly familiar with the breeding business and are commended because of that. There is more trust in them compared to someone who just started out his breeding business venture.
Bloodline and Lineage
The puppy of a Portuguese Water Dog champion will cost higher than the standard price. Being a purebred also factors in the payment rate. Meanwhile, if the Portie is a mixed breed, he’ll be less desirable and, therefore, low-priced.
Tests and Future Treatments
To secure a health guarantee is far from inexpensive. Breeders who have thoroughly assessed their puppies and made sure they are free of cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, and more have a more serious venture that can be done continuously for the future pups only when it’s compensated well.
Future treatments may also be part of the agreement between the breeder and the client so that means the vet expense will be shouldered by the breeder.
Demand
Portuguese Water Dogs are undeniably in-demand worldwide. They are intelligent, dependable, affectionate, and hypoallergenic. If in your area, this breed is commonly sought for, the price will go up.
Season
Just like other breeds, a Portuguese Water Dog is sold more during spring or summer when people are excited to go to the beach or travel to a certain destination. People are in search of a four-legged companion to go with them. If you want a cheaper dog, buy one during the winter.
A black Portuguese Water Dog standing in the snow with a winter jacket.
Age
Puppies are priced higher than adults. This is due to their need to be vaccinated, dewormed, and let’s not forget how big their appetites are. Portie puppies need to be fed at least 3 to 4 times daily. Meanwhile, adults would be more economic.
How Much Would It Cost a Portuguese Water Dog in a Lifetime?
It is estimated that a Portuguese Water Dog’s first-year expenses may go around $4,000. This will go down to about $1,600 every succeeding year since all his essential items are already bought. All in all, you are looking to splurge out an approximate $26,400 if he gets to live 15 years.
This will even spike depending on the lifestyle you want to grant to your dog. Enrolling him in dog training lessons, pet insurance, and other more would end up totaling your cost of ownership to $60,000 to $125,000.
If you are yet to start your journey as a Portuguese Water Dog parent, here are some of the required items you have to ready before you bring your targeted puppy home:
- Dog collars
- Leash
- Food and water bowls
- Id tag with contact details
- Dog bed
- Dog crate
- Training pads
- Poop bag
- Poop scooper
- Poop tray
- First aid kit
- Brush
- Grooming kit
- Odor removal spray
- Interactive toys
