Great Dane vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Great Dane: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Great Dane: Agreeable0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Great Dane: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Great Dane3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Great Dane3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Great Dane3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Great Dane
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
DCM: Heart muscle disease
Eye problems: Vision issues
Wobbler syndrome: Spinal condition
Bone cancer: Higher risk 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
Great Dane
Pros
Gentle with family
Excellent guard dog
Minimal grooming needs
Adaptable personality
Cons
Short lifespan
High food costs
Space requirements
Health issues
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
Great Dane Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, Great Danes were historically known as 'Apollo of dogs' for their elegance.
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
Great Dane
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 16th century as boar hunters and estate guardians. Later refined as noble companions, these dogs served both practical and prestigious roles.
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
Great Dane
Prone to bloat - requires scheduled feeding and rest periods. Exercise needs careful monitoring during growth. Regular vet checks essential for early health issue detection.
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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