Dandie Dinmont Terrier vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Independent0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Dandie Dinmont Terrier3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Dandie Dinmont Terrier3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Dandie Dinmont Terrier4/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure
Disc Disease: Spinal complications
Hip Issues: Joint deterioration
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Cushings: Hormone imbalance
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
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
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Pros
Loyal companion
Good with families
Adaptable
Low shedding
Cons
Independent nature
Grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Limited exercise tolerance
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
Dandie Dinmont Terrier Fun Fact
Only breed named after a fictional character - Dandie Dinmont from 'Guy Mannering'!
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
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the Scottish Borders during the 1700s for hunting badgers and otters. These terriers earned fame through Sir Walter Scott's novel featuring the character Dandie Dinmont.
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
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Daily grooming required to maintain coat condition. Moderate exercise needs must be met consistently. Regular veterinary check-ups important for spinal health monitoring.
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
InfrequentShedding
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