Portuguese Podengo vs Miniature American Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Podengo: Energetic0.8
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Podengo: Agreeable0.6
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Podengo: Weekly Brushing0.4
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Podengo5/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Podengo5/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Podengo3/5
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Portuguese Podengo
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth decay tendency
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac health concerns
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Portuguese Podengo Fun Fact
Portuguese Podengos are one of few breeds that come in three distinct sizes, each historically used for different hunting purposes.
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Heritage & Purpose
Portuguese Podengo
Origin:
Developed in Portugal during medieval times as versatile hunting dogs, particularly excelling in rabbit hunting across varied terrains. Valued for their keen sight and scenting abilities.
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Special Considerations
Portuguese Podengo
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly brushing needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain physical condition.
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Related Comparisons
Similar Size
Portuguese Podengo vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Portuguese Podengo vs Afghan Hound →