Gordon Setter vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Gordon Setter: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Gordon Setter: Independent0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Gordon Setter: Weekly Brushing0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Gordon Setter3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Gordon Setter3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Gordon Setter3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Gordon Setter
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Cancer: Various types 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
Gordon Setter
Pros
Loyal and affectionate
Excellent hunting companion
Good with children
Athletic and energetic
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Not apartment-friendly
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
Gordon Setter Fun Fact
Gordon Setters were once known as 'Black and Tan Setters' before being renamed after the Duke of Gordon.
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
Gordon Setter
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1600s by the Duke of Gordon, these dogs excelled at hunting game birds in the Scottish Highlands, using their exceptional scenting abilities and stamina.
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
Gordon Setter
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Health screening for common breed issues is essential.
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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