Italian Greyhound vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Italian Greyhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Italian Greyhound: Independent0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Italian Greyhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Italian Greyhound3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Italian Greyhound5/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Italian Greyhound5/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Italian Greyhound
Dental Disease: Common gum problems
Leg Fractures: Due to fine bones
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Eye Problems: Progressive issues
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Patellar Luxation: Knee problems
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
Italian Greyhound
Pros
Gentle and affectionate
Low grooming needs
Excellent apartment dog
Minimal shedding
Cons
Fragile bone structure
Cold sensitivity
Challenging to housebreak
Separation anxiety prone
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
Italian Greyhound Fun Fact
Despite their delicate appearance, Italian Greyhounds can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour!
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
Italian Greyhound
Origin:
Refined in Italy during the Renaissance period as companion dogs for nobility, these graceful hounds served as cherished pets in palaces and estates across Europe.
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
Italian Greyhound
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to delicate bone structure, and consistent dental care. Cannot tolerate rough play or extended outdoor exposure.
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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