| Origin | United States |
| Size | Small to Mid-Size |
| Height | 10 to 20 inches |
| Weight | 14 to 28 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12 – 15 years |
| Breed Group | Designer Dog |
| Affection Level | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Friendliness | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Activity Level | ⭐⭐ |
| Barking/Howling Level | ⭐⭐ |
| Pet Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Kid-Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Shedding | ⭐ |
| Easy to Groom | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Easy to Train | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Origin
The Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix or Portidoodle for short is the new addition to the world of Doodle breeds. He first appeared in the United States several years ago and he’s a hybrid designer dog that resulted from crossing the Portuguese Water Dog and the Poodle.
Breeders do this in an effort to achieve having all the qualities of both breeds in just one package. Unsurprisingly, the Portidoodle is not just adorable and affectionate but as well as capable of doing tasks as he is gifted.
As a modern dog, there’s not a lot of information about him. But, we can trace back its roots by getting to know his parents. First off, the Portuguese Water Dog once lived along the Portugal coast. He was an aid to the fishermen as he would herd the fish to the net, retrieve certain tools, and act as a messenger between ships.
Meanwhile, we have the Poodle which is the pride of Germany as experts would mutually agree. This dog was a wildfowl retriever that would work alongside his hunters. Due to how smart he is, the breed’s number spiked so they could travel as performance dogs in circuses.
Appearance
Below image shows what a Portidoodle may look like. In this picture, he looks more like his Portuguese Water Dog parent due to its typical dark brown coat.
Linking two different lineages would result in a puppy with a more vast gene pool. This would mean that he can look more like a Poodle, a Portie, or somewhere in between. The Portidoodle would also have a wide option of coat types and colors like the following:
- Black
- Silver
- Blue
- Brown
- White
- Red
- Cream
- Gray
- Fawn
Since the Poodle parent has three types namely the Toy, Miniature, and Standard, the size of the Portidoodle would also have a variety. Regardless of that, the dog is set to be 10-20 inches tall and 14-28 pounds heavy. This is a small to medium pooch, perfect for those who are looking for compact companions.
The mix would also usually sport a shorter fur that is curly and dense. Most of them also have brown or amber eyes which nicely contrast whatever coat color they have.
Temperament
Portidoodles also have distinct personality traits. Just like their appearance, a Portidoodle puppy may act more like a Poodle, a Portie, or anywhere in between. Luckily, there isn’t much to worry about his temperament as both of his parents are good-natured.
Affection
When it comes to showing love, the Portidoodle isn’t last on the list. He can easily get in tune with his owner’s emotions which makes him a true companion dog. He can sense how you’re feeling and is quick to lighten up your mood when you’re feeling down.
It’s possible that a Portidoodle connects more deeply with one specific family member. It’s like witnessing special treatment from him. This doesn’t mean though that he’ll act aloof with the rest of the family.
Friendliness
The environment impacts who he becomes just as much as how genetics have a major factor in his attitude. Being with the right owner lets this dog bring out the best in him.
When raised right, a Portidoodle can get along with kids. He loves to be around those who can match his energy and the children have that vigor all day. The dog tends to be social, extroverted, and open to forming bonds and relationships.
All he needs right from puppyhood is socialization. Once he’s used to seeing new faces and smelling new scents, other dogs, pets, and humans can interact with him without any concern. Just make sure you don’t mix him with aggressive dogs.
Activity Level
Every dog is different and you have to assess how high his energy levels are. You can expect him to be in the medium to high range though. This is explained by his parents’ history. Poodles and Porties are not couch potatoes as they are deemed hardworking and diligent in their man-given duties, historically.
This is a plus point for owners who have an active lifestyle. You can bring the Portidoodle to a river with a ball and have him retrieve it after it’s thrown. He’ll enjoy settling with an inflatable pool too. He’s happy as long as there is water nearby.
The only downside of having such a zestful pet is that he should never feel bored. This paves the way for him to develop unwanted behaviors until he gets the attention he needs.
Care
Novice and first-time dog owners can easily get along with a Portidoodle. Take note, however, that he wouldn’t become the most excellent pet out there without properly taking good care of him. Here are the basic requirements to keep him in a good condition.
Grooming
The Portidoodle is a great choice for allergy sufferers as both of its parents are labeled to be hypoallergenic. That means his shedding rate is low compared to other dog breeds. Still, as his coat is dense, brushing has to be done a few times a week.
Use a slicker brush and gently comb him all over with it. This will collect his dead hair before they end up sticking on your couch and carpet. Washing him doesn’t have to happen frequently. Do it every 6-8 weeks or whenever he’s dirty.
Since he loves being in the water, always check his ears for any signs of infection. Make sure he has good oral health too and that his nails are trimmed short.
Food and Diet
Every dog has different needs, therefore, getting him assessed by the vet is the best thing to do. This ensures that he gets the right food and diet throughout his lifetime.
It’s no longer new to us that what a dog eats can have a major impact on his quality of life. If he gets all the nutrients he needs for his growth, he can live more than the average 12-15 years life span.
Make a schedule for his meals to keep him from gaining too much weight. Puppies need to eat 3-4 times daily while adults must settle with two meals. Avoid dog food products that contain artificial coloring, food preservatives, MSG, generic meat, and fillers.
Exercise
Exercise is just as important as his training and diet. As mentioned, the Portidoodle would require a busy lifestyle to keep him mentally happy and physically vigorous. Long walks and free play can be enough to keep the weight down as well.
Let’s not forget, his Poodle parent has an extreme liking for food. He, as the offspring, may have the same behavior to treats and food rewards, therefore, putting him at risk of obesity if he’s immobile most time of the day.
For more exciting activities, play a game of fetch with him or let him swim in a pool. Just be sure to let him out after around 15 minutes to avoid over-exhaustion.
Training
The Portidoodle is one of the easiest dogs to teach and train. This is no surprise since his parents are on top of the list when it comes to intelligence. With positive reinforcements, you can get him to follow your commands in a jiffy. He’ll be quick to remember every lesson too as long as there are repetitions.
You can reward him with pets to modify the number of treats he receives. Every time he makes a mistake, spare him from harsh punishments. Dogs do not respond nicely to that and such a reaction can only cause them to develop negative behaviors.
As a puppy, start his lessons with the most basic. Teach him what crates are for and incorporate obedience training, leash training, socialization, and basic commands. Some Portidoodles can learn in a few weeks, while others may take longer than that. You have to be patient as each dog has its own phase.
Health Problems
Even though the Portidoodle tends to live long, this can change once he is stricken by an illness. Generally, he’s healthy as long as he has been bred ethically. Avoid those that were bred in puppy mills nor the ones sold in pet stores as the dogs’ living conditions are highly questionable.
A few minor or major health issues may crop up over the years and that includes the following:
- Eye problems
- Addison’s disease
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat
Immediately bring your dog to the vet should there be any concerning behavioral signs exhibited. If he suddenly wants to be isolated or he shows aggression when you touch him in certain areas of his body, then you know that something’s wrong.
Pros and Cons of Having a Portidoodle
Don’t be quick to get yourself a Portidoodle yet. His qualities may sound so good in the ears, but you must ensure that you are both compatible with each other. Find out if he’s the dog you are looking for as well as if some of his traits are not acceptable in your home.
Pros
- Overly affectionate
- Extremely loyal
- Low shedding rate
- Playful
- Energetic
- Just the right size
- Easy to train
- High in trainability
- Sociable
Cons
- Not a good guard dog
- Requires an active lifestyle
- Needs loads of attention
- Can be high-maintenance
- Tends to be very sensitive
- He can be strong-willed
Do Kennel Clubs Recognize the Portidoodle?
Unfortunately, the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize the Portidoodle as an official breed due to it being a hybrid dog. Even the designer Breed Registry is yet to get to know this new pooch. It will only take a matter of time before the Portidoodle achieves the fame it deserves.
Anyhow, it doesn’t really matter whether the dog is an official breed or not. The Portidoodle is capable of becoming an excellent companion even without the fancy label. If this is a big deal for some who are thinking of joining their dogs in shows and competitions, then you can choose between his parents. The Poodle, however, is more high-maintenance, especially when it comes to his coat.
Cost
There isn’t a set average regarding the price of a Portidoodle puppy yet, but knowing that this is a designer dog, expect to splurge a lot for one. Some can charge $2,900 on the high end, but others may sell it cheaper.
Check out each breeder’s price for their dogs and assess which of them sells out the best puppy at a reasonable cost.
If none fits your budget, you know that there is a better way to get yourself this dream pup! Visit your nearest shelter homes and see if they have any Portidoodle dogs that are up for adoption. With thousands of dogs ending up in adoption centers, there’s a chance you’d find at least one which you can bring home with you.
Adoption typically charges only $75 to $150, but other states can ask for more depending on the standard of living. This fee covers the overall care before your chosen dog is sent with you.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Portidoodle
Convinced to adopt rather than shop? Check out these amazing places to look for your first ever Portidoodle. If none are available, you can opt to contact a responsible breeder instead.
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