Miniature American Shepherd vs Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno5/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac condition
Primary Lens Luxation: Eye disorder
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Pros
Adaptable to various living situations
Low grooming needs
Excellent watchdog
Affectionate with family
Cons
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May be vocal
Requires secure fencing
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno Fun Fact
These ancient hunters were so valued in Portugal that they were often given as gifts to nobility.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Origin:
Developed in Portugal during medieval times as skilled rabbit hunters and ratters. These nimble dogs excelled in pursuing prey through rocky terrain and dense vegetation.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Weekly grooming needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain health.