Pomeranian vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Pomeranian: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Pomeranian: Agreeable0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Pomeranian: 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
Pomeranian3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Pomeranian3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Pomeranian3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Pomeranian
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Tracheal Collapse: Airway weakness
Heart Issues: Valve problems common
Dental Problems: Tooth decay risk
Eye Conditions: Various disorders
Alopecia X: Hair loss 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
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 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
Pomeranian Fun Fact
Queen Victoria had over 35 Pomeranians and helped reduce their size from 20-30 pounds to under 7 pounds!
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
Pomeranian
Origin:
Descended from larger Arctic sled dogs, these companions were favored by European royalty in the 18th century, particularly Queen Victoria who helped popularize the breed.
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
Pomeranian
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Need protection from extreme temperatures. Dental care crucial due to predisposition to tooth problems.
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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