How to Train a Portuguese Water Dog to Come When Called
Portuguese Water Dogs are exceptionally intelligent and eager to please, making them ideal candidates for reliable recall training. However, their high energy level and spirited nature mean they can get easily distracted, especially outdoors where their strong prey drive kicks in. A solid recall is essential for this breed—it keeps your water-loving PWD safe near bodies of water, prevents jumping on guests during excitement, and channels their natural athleticism safely. Because PWDs thrive on mental stimulation and bond strongly with their handlers, recall training becomes an engaging activity rather than a chore. This guide uses positive reinforcement to build a recall so reliable that your Portuguese Water Dog will respond instantly, even when distracted.
Step-by-step
- 1
Start indoors with high-value rewards
Begin training in a distraction-free home environment using treats or toys your PWD loves most. Practice the recall command ("Come!" or a whistle) at short distances, immediately rewarding with enthusiastic praise and the reward. This foundation builds association without competing stimuli.
- 2
Build distance and consistency gradually
Over 1-2 weeks, increase distance across rooms using the same command and reward pattern. Call your PWD multiple times daily during normal interactions—before meals, before play sessions, after training. This repetition leverages their eagerness and intelligence to cement the behavior.
- 3
Add light distractions in controlled spaces
Introduce minor distractions like toys on the floor or mild sounds while practicing recall in your home or a secure yard. Reward heavily when your PWD ignores distractions and responds to your call. Their high trainability means they quickly learn what earns rewards.
- 4
Practice on-leash in outdoor environments
Move training to parks or trails using a long training lead (15-30 feet). Call your PWD, reward immediately when they respond, and keep sessions short (5-10 minutes). This mimics real-world scenarios while maintaining safety—critical given their water-seeking and jumping tendencies.
- 5
Test and reinforce with varied scenarios
Gradually increase duration off-leash in secure areas (fenced dog parks, beaches) before attempting open recall. Vary your timing, location, and rewards to prevent habituation. Remain consistent: always reward recall enthusiastically, even if it takes longer than expected.
- 6
Manage energy through exercise before training
PWDs need 75+ minutes of daily exercise to prevent destructive boredom that undermines training. Exercise before training sessions so your dog is focused but not exhausted. A mentally and physically satisfied PWD is far more responsive and less prone to counter-surfing or mouthing during training.
Pro tips
- Use a distinct whistle or unique word for recall so your PWD doesn't confuse it with everyday commands—their intelligence means they pick up on subtlety, and a special signal stands out even during high arousal.
- Before every training session, tire your PWD out with 15-20 minutes of fetch or swimming; exhausting their 4/5 energy level makes them calmer and far more focused on you and rewards.
- Practice recall games during play (call, reward, release back to play) so your spirited PWD learns that responding to you leads to MORE fun, not the end of it—this transforms training into their favorite activity.
Frequently asked questions
My PWD sometimes ignores me at the dog park even though he responds at home. What's happening?+
Outdoor distractions and higher arousal levels override home training initially. Gradually expose your PWD to mild distractions before expecting park-level recall. Use extremely high-value rewards (special treats, favorite toy) in parks, and practice regularly. His intelligence means he'll learn the distinction, but it takes time and consistency.
My Portuguese Water Dog wants to mouth or jump during training sessions. How do I handle this?+
Redirect mouthing onto a toy and reward calm focus instead. For jumping, turn away and ignore the behavior—PWDs are social and eager, so removed attention is a powerful correction. Resume training only when your dog settles. Ensure adequate exercise before sessions to reduce excess energy.
How often should I practice recall training with my PWD?+
Short, frequent sessions (3-5 minutes, 3-4 times daily) work best for this intelligent, high-energy breed. PWDs thrive on mental stimulation, so incorporate recall into daily routines—before meals, playtime, or walks. Consistency matters more than duration.
What if my PWD runs toward water instead of coming back to me?+
This is common—PWDs were bred for water work and have a strong instinct. Avoid training near water initially; build reliability in low-distraction areas first. Use a long line at water locations and reward heavily for any response. Never chase—make coming to you more rewarding than the water.