Bernese Mountain Dog vs Portuguese Podengo
Breed Compatibility
99% Compatible
Energy Level
Bernese Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Podengo: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Bernese Mountain Dog: Easy Training0.8
Portuguese Podengo: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Bernese Mountain Dog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Portuguese Podengo: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Portuguese Podengo5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Portuguese Podengo5/5
Good with Strangers
Bernese Mountain Dog4/5
Portuguese Podengo3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development problem
Cancer: Higher than average risk
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Portuguese Podengo
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth decay tendency
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac health concerns
Pros & Cons Comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog
Pros
Gentle and patient with children
Loyal family companion
Good working dog capabilities
Excellent guard dog instincts
Cons
Short lifespan
Heavy shedding
Heat sensitivity
Significant grooming needs
Portuguese Podengo
Pros
Highly adaptable
Low grooming needs
Athletic and agile
Good watchdog
Cons
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Can be stubborn
Needs secure fencing
Bernese Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically known as 'cheese dogs' for helping transport dairy products.
Portuguese Podengo Fun Fact
Portuguese Podengos are one of few breeds that come in three distinct sizes, each historically used for different hunting purposes.
Heritage & Purpose
Bernese Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers in the canton of Bern relied on these dogs for drafting, droving cattle, and guarding property during the 1800s. Their versatile working abilities made them invaluable.
Portuguese Podengo
Origin:
Developed in Portugal during medieval times as versatile hunting dogs, particularly excelling in rabbit hunting across varied terrains. Valued for their keen sight and scenting abilities.
Special Considerations
Bernese Mountain Dog
Regular brushing needed to manage heavy shedding. Exercise must be moderated in warm weather. Joint health supplements recommended throughout life.
Portuguese Podengo
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly brushing needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain physical condition.
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