Akita vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
71% Compatible
Energy Level
Akita: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Akita: Eager to Please1.0
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Akita: Daily Brushing0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Akita3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Akita1/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Akita2/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Akita
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Stomach torsion risk
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
Sebaceous Adenitis: Skin condition
VKH Syndrome: Autoimmune disorder
Portuguese Water Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
GM1: Storage disease disorder
JDCM: Juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy
EOPRA: Early-onset eye disease
Storage Disease: Metabolic disorder
Pros & Cons Comparison
Akita
Pros
Extremely loyal to family
Excellent guard dog
Clean and fastidious
Quiet unless necessary
Independent nature
Cons
Strong prey drive
Same-sex dog aggression
Not ideal for first-time owners
Heavy shedding
Strong-willed personality
Portuguese Water Dog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Non-shedding coat
Excellent swimming ability
Great family companion
Athletic and versatile
Cons
High grooming needs
Requires extensive exercise
Can be stubborn
Expensive maintenance
Akita Fun Fact
Hachiko, the famous Akita, waited nine years at Shibuya Station for his deceased owner's return.
Portuguese Water Dog Fun Fact
These dogs were trained to dive underwater to retrieve fishing gear and could swim for hours in cold ocean waters.
Heritage & Purpose
Akita
Origin: Japan
Developed in Japan's mountainous Akita prefecture during the 17th century, these dogs served as skilled big-game hunters and loyal guardians of nobility.
Portuguese Water Dog
Origin:
Maritime working dogs of Portuguese fishing vessels during the 15th century, helping retrieve gear and herd fish into nets while serving as boat guardians and messengers.
Special Considerations
Akita
Requires consistent grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise regimen, and early socialization. Health screening for breed-specific conditions essential.
Portuguese Water Dog
Requires professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being. Regular eye and hip examinations recommended.
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