Great Pyrenees vs Spanish Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
90% Compatible
Energy Level
Great Pyrenees: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Great Pyrenees: Independent0.4
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Great Pyrenees: Weekly Brushing0.4
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Great Pyrenees3/5
Spanish Water Dog4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Great Pyrenees3/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Great Pyrenees3/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Great Pyrenees
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Bone Cancer: Higher risk breed
Spanish Water Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
CHD: Congenital heart defects possible
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid function issues
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder risk
Pros & Cons Comparison
Great Pyrenees
Pros
Excellent guardian
Gentle with family
Independent nature
Good with children
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Heavy shedding
Stubborn streak
Needs space
Independent nature
Barking tendency
Spanish Water Dog
Pros
Highly trainable
Excellent swimming ability
Low shedding coat
Versatile working dog
Cons
High grooming maintenance
Requires extensive exercise
Can be reserved with strangers
Strong herding instincts
Great Pyrenees Fun Fact
Great Pyrenees were once appointed as official guard dogs for the French royal court in medieval times.
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
Heritage & Purpose
Great Pyrenees
Origin:
Mountain guardians in the Pyrenees range between France and Spain, protecting sheep from wolves and bears since medieval times. Valued for their independence and protective instincts.
Spanish Water Dog
Origin:
Developed along Spain's coastal regions during the Middle Ages, these dogs excelled in herding livestock and retrieving from water, serving as versatile working companions.
Special Considerations
Great Pyrenees
Regular grooming needed for heavy coat. Requires secure fencing due to roaming instincts. Early socialization essential for balanced temperament.
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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