Mastiff vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
46% Compatible
Energy Level
Mastiff: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Mastiff: Agreeable0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Mastiff: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Mastiff/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Mastiff/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Mastiff/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Mastiff
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Bloat: Gastric torsion condition
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Eye Problems: Various optical issues
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Cancer: Various types common in breed
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
Mastiff
Pros
Gentle and patient nature
Excellent guard dog
Good with family
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy drooling
Shorter lifespan
Requires significant space
High food costs
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
Mastiff Fun Fact
Ancient Mastiffs were so valued in battle that entire units of Roman armies were dedicated to their care.
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
Mastiff
Origin:
Ancient Roman war dogs evolved into estate guardians across medieval England. These powerful dogs protected estates and served as hunting companions for nobility.
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
Mastiff
Heat sensitivity requires climate control. Regular monitoring for bloat symptoms essential. Joint support supplements recommended 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
OccasionalShedding
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