Border Terrier vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Border Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Border Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Border Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Border Terrier5/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Border Terrier3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Border Terrier4/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Border Terrier
Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
SLEM: spongiform encephalopathy
Heart defects: valve issues
Epilepsy: seizure disorder
Eye problems: progressive issues
Dental issues: tooth decay risk
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
Border Terrier
Pros
Excellent with families
Adaptable to different living situations
Low grooming requirements
Good with children
Cons
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May dig and bark
Needs consistent exercise
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
Border Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Border Terriers were bred to keep pace with horses during fox hunts!
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
Border Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the border country between England and Scotland during the 18th century, these terriers excelled at hunting foxes and rodents in the rugged terrain.
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
Border Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat condition. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Early socialization important 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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