Keeshond vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Keeshond: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Keeshond: Easy Training0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Keeshond: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Keeshond5/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Keeshond5/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Keeshond5/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Keeshond
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint issues
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap problems
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Vision disorders
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
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
Keeshond
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Intelligent and trainable
Alert watchdog
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
Heavy shedding
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Needs regular exercise
May be stubborn
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
Keeshond Fun Fact
Their distinctive facial markings, resembling glasses, are called 'spectacles' and are a hallmark of the breed.
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
Keeshond
Origin:
Dutch barge dogs from the 17th century, serving as watchdogs and companions on riverboats along Amsterdam's waterways. Valued for their alertness and loyalty.
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
Keeshond
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat. Moderate exercise requirements must be met. Watch for overheating in warm weather due to thick double coat.
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.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Keeshond vs Schipperke →Similar Size
Keeshond vs Boykin Spaniel →