American Staffordshire Terrier vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
American Staffordshire Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
American Staffordshire Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Staffordshire Terrier: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Staffordshire Terrier3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Staffordshire Terrier3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
American Staffordshire Terrier4/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
American Staffordshire Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Heart Disease: Cardiac concerns
Skin Allergies: Dermatitis issues
Thyroid Problems: Hormone imbalance
Eye Issues: Progressive retinal
CCL Tears: Knee ligament damage
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
American Staffordshire Terrier
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent with children
Strong and athletic
Easy to groom
Cons
Strong prey drive
Need extensive socialization
May be dog aggressive
High exercise needs
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
American Staffordshire Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their muscular appearance, AmStaffs are often called 'nanny dogs' due to their gentle nature with children.
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
American Staffordshire Terrier
Origin:
Developed in 19th century America from English bull-and-terrier breeds, these dogs served as all-purpose farm dogs and family guardians throughout the American heartland.
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
American Staffordshire Terrier
Needs early socialization, consistent training, and regular exercise. Careful introduction to other pets required. Regular health monitoring for breed-specific issues 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.