Australian Shepherd vs Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno5/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
CEA: Hereditary eye condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Cataracts: Vision impairment risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac condition
Primary Lens Luxation: Eye disorder
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Versatile abilities
Strong protective instincts
Athletic and agile
Cons
High exercise needs
Intense herding instinct
Heavy shedding
Can be too energetic
Requires constant mental stimulation
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Pros
Adaptable to various living situations
Low grooming needs
Excellent watchdog
Affectionate with family
Cons
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May be vocal
Requires secure fencing
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno Fun Fact
These ancient hunters were so valued in Portugal that they were often given as gifts to nobility.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in western United States during the 1800s, these dogs excelled in herding livestock across challenging terrain. Their versatile skills and keen intelligence made them invaluable to ranchers.
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Origin:
Developed in Portugal during medieval times as skilled rabbit hunters and ratters. These nimble dogs excelled in pursuing prey through rocky terrain and dense vegetation.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Weekly grooming needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain health.
Related Comparisons
Similar Size
Australian Shepherd vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Australian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound →