20 Strong Names for Portuguese Water Dogs: Honoring Heritage

Lazar Jovanovic Lazar Jovanovic · Updated March 13, 2025
A large black dog with shaggy fur stands against a plain white background, facing forward with its mouth slightly open.

Are you looking for the perfect name for your Portuguese Water Dog? These smart, athletic dogs deserve a name that fits their strong personality and water-loving nature. You want a name that captures their unique traits and Portuguese heritage.

Choosing the right name for your dog is important. A good name can make training easier and help your dog respond better when called. Portuguese Water Dogs have a rich history as working dogs on fishing boats. This article will give you ideas for names that honor their background and suit their lively character.

1. Aqua

Aqua is a perfect name for your Portuguese Water Dog. It captures the breed’s love for water and swimming. This name brings to mind crystal clear oceans and refreshing pools. Your dog will stand out with this unique and fitting moniker.

2. Mariner

Mariner is a perfect name for your Portuguese Water Dog. This breed has a rich history of working alongside sailors and fishermen. The name Mariner reflects the dog’s natural affinity for water and seafaring heritage. It brings to mind images of skilled navigators and adventurers on the open seas.

3. Coral

Coral is a strong name for your Portuguese Water Dog. It brings to mind the vibrant underwater world these dogs love to explore. The name Coral reflects the marine life your Portuguese Water Dog might encounter during swims. It’s a perfect fit for a dog breed known for its love of water.

4. Cascais

Cascais is a perfect name for your Portuguese Water Dog. It’s a coastal town in Portugal known for its beautiful beaches and rich maritime history. Your dog will embody the spirit of this charming seaside destination. Cascais has a strong connection to the water, just like the breed.

5. Nautica

Nautica is a great name for your Portuguese Water Dog. It comes from the Latin word “nauticus,” which means “of the sea.” This fits perfectly with your dog’s love of water and seafaring heritage. You might choose Nautica if you want a name that sounds elegant and sophisticated. It has a nice ring to it and is easy to call out at the dog park or beach.

6. Zara

Zara is a stylish name for your Portuguese Water Dog. It has a chic and modern feel that matches the breed’s elegant appearance. The name Zara has Spanish origins and means “blooming flower.” This suits the lively and vibrant nature of Portuguese Water Dogs.

7. Cabo

Cabo is a great name for your Portuguese Water Dog. It comes from the Portuguese word for “cape” or “headland.” This name fits well with the breed’s seafaring heritage. You might choose Cabo if your dog has a bold, adventurous spirit. It brings to mind coastal landscapes and ocean breezes. These elements connect nicely to the Portuguese Water Dog’s love of water.

8. Brisa

Brisa is a charming name for your Portuguese Water Dog. It means “breeze” in Portuguese, capturing the breed’s lively and energetic nature. This name suits a dog that moves gracefully through water and on land. You might choose Brisa for a pup that seems to glide effortlessly as it swims or runs.

9. Oliveira

Oliveira is a strong name choice for your Portuguese Water Dog. It has deep roots in Portuguese culture and history. The name Oliveira means “olive tree” in Portuguese. Olive trees are known for their strength and longevity, much like the loyal Portuguese Water Dog breed.

10. Atlantis

Atlantis is a powerful name for your Portuguese Water Dog. It brings to mind the legendary lost city beneath the sea. This name fits well with the breed’s love of water. Your dog’s swimming skills may remind you of the mythical underwater kingdom.

11. Belem

Belem is a great name for your Portuguese Water Dog. It’s the name of a historic district in Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city. This coastal area has strong ties to maritime history. It’s where many Portuguese explorers set sail during the Age of Discovery.

12. Surf

Surf is a fun and fitting name for your dog. This breed loves being in and around water, making Surf a natural choice. The name Surf captures the essence of these athletic and water-loving dogs. It brings to mind images of waves and ocean adventures, which align perfectly with the breed’s history and abilities.

13. Laguna

Laguna is a great name choice for your dog. It means “lagoon” in Portuguese and Spanish, making it a perfect fit for this water-loving breed. The name Laguna evokes images of calm, coastal waters. This suits the Portuguese Water Dog’s natural affinity for swimming and water activities.

14. Sailor

Sailor is a perfect name for your dog. This breed has a long history of working alongside sailors on ships and fishing boats. The name Sailor captures the aquatic nature of these dogs. It reflects their love for water and their natural swimming abilities.

15. Lisboa

Lisboa is a great name for your dog. It refers to Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. This name connects your dog to its breed’s country of origin. By naming your dog Lisboa, you honor the rich maritime history of Portugal’s largest city. Lisbon has long been an important seaport, which fits well with the Portuguese Water Dog’s heritage as a working dog for fishermen.

16. Rover

Rover is a classic name that fits well for a Portuguese Water Dog. It brings to mind a dog that loves to roam and explore, which matches this breed’s energetic nature. You might choose Rover for your Portuguese Water Dog if you want a name that’s easy to say and remember. It’s a strong name that works well for training and commands.

17. Porto

Porto is a great name for your dog. It comes from the famous city in Portugal. This name has a strong connection to the breed’s homeland. Porto is easy to say and remember. Your dog will quickly learn to respond when you call this name. It’s short but still has a nice ring to it.

18. Gale

Gale is a powerful name for your dog. It calls to mind strong winds and stormy seas, perfect for this water-loving breed. Your dog will embody the force of nature with this name. Gales are known for their intensity and energy, much like the Portuguese Water Dog’s spirited personality.

19. Rio

Rio is a great name for your dog. It means “river” in Portuguese, which fits perfectly with this water-loving breed. This name captures the essence of your dog’s natural affinity for swimming and water activities. It’s short, easy to say, and has a nice ring to it.

20. Seaspray

Seaspray is a great name for your dog. It captures the essence of this water-loving breed perfectly. The name brings to mind the mist of ocean waves crashing against rocks or a boat. This fits well with the Portuguese Water Dog’s history as a working dog for fishermen.