Portuguese Podengo Pequeno vs Saint Bernard
Breed Compatibility
89% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Energetic0.8
Saint Bernard: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Agreeable0.6
Saint Bernard: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Weekly Brushing0.4
Saint Bernard: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno5/5
Saint Bernard5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno5/5
Saint Bernard3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno3/5
Saint Bernard3/5
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
Saint Bernard
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Stomach twisting condition
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Various disorders
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint problems
Bone Cancer: Higher risk breed
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
Saint Bernard
Pros
Gentle and patient with children
Loyal and protective
Good-natured temperament
Excellent cold weather tolerance
Cons
Heavy drooling
Expensive to feed and maintain
Short lifespan
Not suited for hot climates
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno Fun Fact
These ancient hunters were so valued in Portugal that they were often given as gifts to nobility.
Saint Bernard Fun Fact
The iconic barrel around their neck was never actually used in rescues - it's a popular myth from paintings!
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.
Saint Bernard
Origin:
Mountain rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps during the 17th-19th centuries, saving countless lives at the Saint Bernard Pass hospice. Renowned for locating and reviving stranded travelers.
Special Considerations
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Weekly grooming needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain health.
Saint Bernard
Heavy shedding requires regular grooming. Drooling management needed. Exercise moderation in warm weather essential. Joint health supplements often recommended.