Azawakh vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Azawakh: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Azawakh: Independent0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Azawakh: Weekly Brushing0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Azawakh3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Azawakh3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Azawakh1/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Azawakh
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cardiac issues: Heart conditions
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye problems: Various conditions
Autoimmune disorders: Various types
Skin sensitivity: Environmental
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
Azawakh
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog
Low grooming needs
Athletic and graceful
Cons
Independent nature makes training challenging
Strong prey drive
Requires significant exercise
Can be aloof with strangers
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
Azawakh Fun Fact
Azawakhs can reach speeds of up to 40 mph and were traditionally used to hunt gazelles in the Sahara.
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
Azawakh
Origin:
Ancient sighthound from West Africa's Sahel region, serving as guardians and hunters for nomadic Tuareg tribes. Prized for their ability to hunt gazelle in harsh desert conditions.
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
Azawakh
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Needs protection in cold weather. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
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.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
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