Lhasa Apso vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Lhasa Apso: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Lhasa Apso: Independent0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Lhasa Apso: 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
Lhasa Apso3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Lhasa Apso3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Lhasa Apso3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Lhasa Apso
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Eye degeneration
Cherry Eye: Third eyelid inflammation
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Sebaceous Adenitis: Skin condition
Renal Dysplasia: Kidney development issue
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
Lhasa Apso
Pros
Loyal and devoted
Good apartment dog
Long lifespan
Minimal shedding
Excellent watchdog
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Reserved with strangers
Frequent barking
Independent nature
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
Lhasa Apso Fun Fact
Lhasa Apsos were considered so sacred in Tibet that they could never be sold, only given as gifts.
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
Lhasa Apso
Origin:
Serving as sentinel dogs in Tibetan monasteries and palaces since 800 BC, these alert watchdogs protected Buddhist monasteries and warned of approaching strangers.
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
Lhasa Apso
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise needs but requires consistent training. Watch for eye and joint health issues throughout life.
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.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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