Pomeranian vs Portuguese Podengo
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Pomeranian
Toy Group
Portuguese Podengo
Miscellaneous Class
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Pomeranian Overview
Pomeranians are compact, fox-faced dogs with a distinctive fluffy double coat forming a ruff around their neck. Their alert carriage and bright expression reflect their bold, vivacious nature. Standing 6-7 inches tall with a weight of 3-7 pounds, these spirited companions feature a plumed tail carried high over their back, small pointed ears, and a characteristic proud gait that showcases their confident personality.
Portuguese Podengo Overview
Portuguese Podengos are elegant sighthounds characterized by their wedge-shaped heads, erect triangular ears, and lean, muscular builds. Available in three sizes, they showcase either smooth or wire coats in various shades. Their alert expression and graceful movement reflect their heritage as skilled hunters, while their intelligent eyes convey their sharp, observant nature.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Pomeranians are less energetic than Portuguese Podengos, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Pomeranians require more grooming attention compared to Portuguese Podengos.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Pomeranians tend to be more reserved with strangers than Portuguese Podengos.
- Trainability: Portuguese Podengos may be slightly easier to train due to their Portuguese Podengo's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Pomeranians adapt better to apartment living, while Portuguese Podengos typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Pomeranian and Portuguese Podengo, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Pomeranian | Portuguese Podengo |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-16 years | 10-12 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Toy Group | Miscellaneous Class |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Pomeranian | Portuguese Podengo |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6-7 inches 15-18 cm | 16-28 inches 41-71 cm |
| Weight | 3-7 lbs 1-3 kg | 35-66 lbs 16-30 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Regularly |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Pomeranian | Portuguese Podengo |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Inquisitive, Bold, Lively | Independent, Alert, Intelligent |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Pomeranian | Portuguese Podengo |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Pomeranian Temperament
The Pomeranian is known for being inquisitive, bold, lively, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Portuguese Podengo Temperament
The Portuguese Podengo is characterized by being independent, alert, intelligent, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Pomeranian and Portuguese Podengo, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Pomeranian
Rating: 3/5
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Pomeranian
Rating: 3/5
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Pomeranian
Rating: 3/5
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 4/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Pomeranian
Rating: 1/5
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Pomeranian
Rating: 4/5
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Pomeranian Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Pomeranians require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Pomeranians require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Portuguese Podengo Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Portuguese Podengos need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Portuguese Podengos require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Pomeranian Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar Luxation
- Tracheal Collapse
- Heart Issues
- Dental Problems
- Eye Conditions
Portuguese Podengo Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Patellar Luxation
- Dental Issues
- Allergies
Pros & Cons
Pomeranian
Pros
- Compact size
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Alert watchdog
- Intelligent
- Long lifespan
Cons
- High grooming needs
- Can be yappy
- Delicate build
- Stubborn streak
Portuguese Podengo
Pros
- Highly adaptable
- Low grooming needs
- Athletic and agile
- Good watchdog
Cons
- Strong prey drive
- Independent nature
- Can be stubborn
- Needs secure fencing
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Pomeranian and Portuguese Podengo, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.