Norwegian Elkhound vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Norwegian Elkhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Norwegian Elkhound: Agreeable0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Norwegian Elkhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Norwegian Elkhound3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Norwegian Elkhound3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Norwegian Elkhound4/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Norwegian Elkhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive eye condition
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Sebaceous Cysts: Skin growths
Fanconi Syndrome: Kidney disorder
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
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
Norwegian Elkhound
Pros
Loyal and dependable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Heavy shedding
Strong hunting instincts
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
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
Norwegian Elkhound Fun Fact
Norwegian Elkhounds can track moose for several days through deep snow, earning them the nickname 'gray ghost of the North.'
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
Norwegian Elkhound
Origin:
Nordic hunters relied on these dogs during the Viking Age to track and hunt moose and other large game across Scandinavia's challenging terrain. Their endurance and tracking abilities proved invaluable.
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
Norwegian Elkhound
Regular brushing during shedding seasons, consistent exercise routine, and early socialization are essential. Monitor weight and provide mental stimulation through tracking activities.
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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