Golden Retriever vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Golden Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Golden Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Golden Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Golden Retriever5/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Golden Retriever5/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Golden Retriever5/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Golden Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Cancer: Higher than average risk
Skin Allergies: Common in breed
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
Golden Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Friendly disposition
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to health issues
Can be mouthy
Requires regular grooming
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
Golden Retriever Fun Fact
Golden Retrievers have such soft mouths they can carry an egg without breaking it, a trait from their hunting heritage.
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
Golden Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s by Lord Tweedmouth to retrieve waterfowl in challenging terrains. Combined existing retrievers with water spaniels for the perfect hunting companion.
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
Golden Retriever
Regular grooming needed to manage shedding. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Joint health should be monitored, especially in growing puppies.
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.
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