Are you looking for a hypoallergenic dog that is suitable for people with allergies, and that is intelligent, loyal and versatile? Then you’ll often end up with water dogs and the popular Labradoodle. But what are the differences between these breeds? And which one fits your family situation best?
What are water dogs?
Water dogs are a group of dog breeds that were originally bred to work in and around the water, often as hunting dogs or helpers for fishermen. They have a dense, curly coat that is water-repellent and sheds very little — ideal for people with a dog allergy.
Well-known water dog breeds:
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Spanish Water Dog
- Lagotto Romagnolo (also known as the Italian truffle dog)
- Barbet (French water dog)
Difference between water dogs and Labradoodle
Although Labradoodles often resemble water dogs in appearance, they are a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. They were developed as hypoallergenic assistance dogs, but there is a lot of variation among Labradoodles because they are (often) not an officially recognized breed.
| Feature | Water dog | Labradoodle |
| Origin | Specific pedigree breed | Crossbreed (often between Labrador and Poodle) |
| Coat | Curly, water-repellent, hypoallergenic | Can vary (wool, fleece or hair) |
| Recognition | FCI-recognized breeds | Not recognized by the FCI |
| Temperament | Work-oriented, loyal, active | Social, gentle, intelligent |
| Training | Well trainable, strong character | Highly trainable, affectionate |
Intelligence & suitability as an assistance dog
Both water dogs and Labradoodles are very intelligent and love to have a job. This makes them extremely suitable for therapy and assistance dog tasks.
As an assistance dog:
- They can sense epileptic seizures even before they occur
- Are successfully used for autistic children: calming, predictable behavior, stable routine
- Provide support for anxiety disorders or PTSD
Note: not every dog is automatically suitable for these roles. Professional training is essential.
Care: what is involved?
Although these breeds shed less, that does not mean they are maintenance-free.
Coat care:
- Regular brushing (at least 2-3x per week)
- Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks, every 8–12 weeks for a Labradoodle
- Check and keep ears clean (due to moisture)
Without care the coat can mat and cause skin problems.
What to watch for when buying?
Because these are often popular dogs with a high price, puppy mills are unfortunately active as well. Be careful:
Buy only from:
- A recognized breeder
- A breeder where you can see the mother dog and who asks questions about your home situation
Always ask about:
- Socialization of the puppies
- Guarantee for hereditary conditions
Who is a water dog or Labradoodle suitable for?
✅ People with mild to moderate allergies
✅ Families with children (if well socialized)
✅ People looking for an assistance dog
✅ Active people who want a smart, work-oriented dog
❌ Not suitable for people who have little time or inclination for grooming and training
