Portuguese Podengo Pequeno vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Breed Compatibility
90% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Energetic0.8
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Agreeable0.6
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Weekly Brushing0.4
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno5/5
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno5/5
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno3/5
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Serious digestive emergency
Eye Problems: Various hereditary issues
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Splenic Torsion: Emergency condition
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog capabilities
Good with children
Strong and athletic
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy shedding seasonally
Not apartment-friendly
Can be stubborn
Expensive to feed
Short lifespan
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno Fun Fact
These ancient hunters were so valued in Portugal that they were often given as gifts to nobility.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable working companions.
Special Considerations
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Weekly grooming needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain health.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.