Catahoula Leopard Dog vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Catahoula Leopard Dog: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Catahoula Leopard Dog: Independent0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Catahoula Leopard Dog: N/A
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Catahoula Leopard Dog3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Catahoula Leopard Dog3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Catahoula Leopard Dog3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Multiple conditions
Deafness: Common in merle dogs
Cardiac Issues: Heart conditions
Skeletal Issues: Growth related
Joint Problems: Activity impact
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
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Pros
Excellent working ability
Strong protective instincts
Highly intelligent
Athletic and versatile
Cons
Strong-willed nature
High exercise needs
Can be territorial
Not for novice owners
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
Catahoula Leopard Dog Fun Fact
Their webbed feet and unique eye colors make them excellent swimmers and trackers in swamp environments.
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
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Origin:
Developed in Louisiana during the 18th century, these dogs were bred to hunt wild boar and help with cattle herding in challenging swamp 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
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Requires extensive socialization, firm training approach, and plenty of physical activity. Coat needs minimal grooming but sheds moderately.
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
SeasonalRelated Comparisons
Similar Size
Catahoula Leopard Dog vs Borzoi →