Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Portuguese Pointer
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Pointer: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Portuguese Pointer: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Portuguese Pointer: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Portuguese Pointer5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Portuguese Pointer3/5
Good with Strangers
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Portuguese Pointer4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Serious digestive emergency
Eye Problems: Various hereditary issues
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Splenic Torsion: Emergency condition
Portuguese Pointer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Ear Infections: Due to floppy ears
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Joint Issues: Activity-related strain
Pros & Cons Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog capabilities
Good with children
Strong and athletic
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy shedding seasonally
Not apartment-friendly
Can be stubborn
Expensive to feed
Short lifespan
Portuguese Pointer
Pros
Excellent hunting abilities
Highly trainable
Affectionate with family
Athletic and agile
Cons
High exercise needs
May be too energetic for apartments
Requires consistent training
Can be stubborn
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Portuguese Pointer Fun Fact
Portuguese Pointers were favored by royalty and were often given as prestigious gifts between noble families.
Heritage & Purpose
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable working companions.
Portuguese Pointer
Origin:
Developed in medieval Portugal as versatile hunting companions, these dogs excelled in pointing and retrieving game birds across varied terrain during the 1500s.
Special Considerations
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.
Portuguese Pointer
Regular grooming needed despite short coat. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization and training essential for balanced temperament.