Fetch FinderHighly intelligent, athletic and low-shedding. A good pick for people who want a bigger dog without the hair, if they budget for grooming. An athletic, water-loving working dog with a low-shedding curly coat. Smart, playful and great with active families.
Side by side
| Standard Poodle | Portuguese Water Dog | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Weight | 40–70 lb | 35–60 lb |
| Lifespan | 10–18 years | 11–13 years |
| Yearly cost (est.) | $2,000–$3,500 | $1,600–$3,000 |
| Family dog | Good family dog | Good family dog |
| Energy level | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Apartment-friendly | ||
| Handles cold | ||
| Affectionate / cuddly | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good for first-time owners | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Good with cats | ||
| OK being left alone | ||
| Reliable off-leash | ||
| Protective / watchdog | ||
| Barking | ||
| Drooling |
Which one should you choose?
Choose a Standard Poodle if…
- this is your first dog
- you have cats at home
- you want a protective watchdog
- you can't stand drool
Choose a Portuguese Water Dog if…
- you want an active running or hiking partner
- you already have another dog
- you want a dog that's friendly with strangers
- you want a cuddly, people-focused dog
How they handle cold weather
Standard Poodle: Handles cold reasonably well if the coat is kept longer in winter; a jacket helps on bitter days.
Portuguese Water Dog: Handles cold fairly well; dry thoroughly after winter swims or snow.
Still deciding? Take the 3-minute quiz, or compare any breeds side by side.
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Large · 40–70 lb👪 Good family dogStandard PoodleHighly intelligent, athletic and low-shedding. A good pick for people who want a bigger dog without the hair, if they budget for grooming.
Medium · 35–60 lb👪 Good family dogPortuguese Water DogAn athletic, water-loving working dog with a low-shedding curly coat. Smart, playful and great with active families.