Portuguese Water Dog vs American Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
American Water Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Cardiac Issues: Heart murmurs common
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Ear Infections: Due to water exposure
Pattern Baldness: Hereditary condition
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
American Water Spaniel
Pros
Excellent water retrievers
Versatile hunting companions
Good family dogs
Moderate size
Smart and trainable
Cons
Requires regular grooming
Can be stubborn
Needs lots of exercise
May be reserved with strangers
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.
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
American Water Spaniel
Origin: United States
Developed in the Great Lakes region during the 19th century, these dogs excelled at waterfowl hunting in challenging conditions. Their compact size suited them for small fishing boats.
Special Considerations
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.
American Water Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat condition. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Prone to ear infections due to water activities.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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