Belgian Tervuren vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
82% Compatible
Energy Level
Belgian Tervuren: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Belgian Tervuren: Easy Training0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Belgian Tervuren: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Belgian Tervuren3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Belgian Tervuren3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Belgian Tervuren3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Belgian Tervuren
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivity
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
Belgian Tervuren
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent working dog
Loyal and protective
Athletic and agile
Good with family
Cons
High exercise needs
Intensive grooming required
Can be aloof with strangers
Strong herding instinct
Requires experienced owner
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
Belgian Tervuren Fun Fact
The Tervuren's distinctive black overlay on their coat naturally darkens with age, creating a unique appearance.
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
Belgian Tervuren
Origin:
Developed in Belgium during the 1800s as a versatile herding and guard dog for livestock. Valued for their exceptional working abilities and protective instincts in rural settings.
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
Belgian Tervuren
Regular grooming needed for double coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization and training essential 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.
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