Portuguese Podengo vs Havanese
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Portuguese Podengo
Miscellaneous Class
Havanese
Toy Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
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.
Havanese Overview
Havanese dogs captivate with their silky, flowing coats and expressive dark eyes. Standing 8.5-11.5 inches tall with a sturdy yet compact frame, these charming companions showcase a distinctive springy gait. Their coat comes in various colors, featuring a soft texture and slight wave. Alert and spirited, they carry themselves with a gentle, intelligent expression that perfectly matches their affectionate nature.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Portuguese Podengos are more energetic than Havaneses, requiring more daily exercise.
- Grooming: Portuguese Podengos require less grooming attention compared to Havaneses.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Portuguese Podengos tend to be more reserved with strangers than Havaneses.
- Trainability: Portuguese Podengos may be slightly easier to train due to their Portuguese Podengo's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Havaneses 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 Portuguese Podengo and Havanese, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Portuguese Podengo | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Toy |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years | 14-16 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Miscellaneous Class | Toy Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Portuguese Podengo | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 16-28 inches 41-71 cm | 9-12 inches 22-29 cm |
| Weight | 35-66 lbs 16-30 kg | 7-13 lbs 3-6 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Regularly | Occasional |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Portuguese Podengo | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Independent, Alert, Intelligent | Intelligent, Outgoing, Funny |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Portuguese Podengo | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Portuguese Podengo Temperament
The Portuguese Podengo is known for being independent, alert, intelligent, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Havanese Temperament
The Havanese is characterized by being intelligent, outgoing, funny, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Portuguese Podengo and Havanese, 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
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 5/5
Havanese
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 5/5
Havanese
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 4/5
Havanese
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 2/5
Havanese
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 3/5
Havanese
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
Portuguese Podengo Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Portuguese Podengos require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Portuguese Podengos require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Havanese Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Havaneses need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Havaneses require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
Portuguese Podengo Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Patellar Luxation
- Dental Issues
- Allergies
Havanese Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Chondrodysplasia
- Legg-Calve-Perthes
- Deafness
- Heart Murmurs
- Cataracts
Pros & Cons
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
Havanese
Pros
- Excellent companion dog
- Good with children
- Highly adaptable
- Low shedding
- Intelligent
- Social nature
Cons
- Regular grooming needed
- Separation anxiety prone
- Can be vocal
- Frequent brushing required
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Portuguese Podengo and Havanese, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.