German Wirehaired Pointer vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
German Wirehaired Pointer: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
German Wirehaired Pointer: Eager to Please1.0
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
German Wirehaired Pointer: Weekly Brushing0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
German Wirehaired Pointer3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
German Wirehaired Pointer3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
German Wirehaired Pointer4/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
German Wirehaired Pointer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward
Gastric Torsion: Stomach bloating 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
German Wirehaired Pointer
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Versatile working ability
Strong tracking skills
Loyal family dog
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
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
German Wirehaired Pointer Fun Fact
Their wiry coat is naturally water-repellent and can protect them while working in thick brush or icy water.
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
German Wirehaired Pointer
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 19th century, these versatile gun dogs excelled at hunting various game in different terrains. Master trackers and retrievers on both land and water.
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
German Wirehaired Pointer
Weekly brushing and hand-stripping of coat needed. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular health monitoring for breed-specific issues important.
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.