Portuguese Water Dog vs Azawakh
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Azawakh: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Azawakh: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Azawakh: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Azawakh3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Azawakh3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Azawakh1/5
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
Azawakh
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cardiac issues: Heart conditions
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye problems: Various conditions
Autoimmune disorders: Various types
Skin sensitivity: Environmental
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
Azawakh
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog
Low grooming needs
Athletic and graceful
Cons
Independent nature makes training challenging
Strong prey drive
Requires significant exercise
Can be aloof 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.
Azawakh Fun Fact
Azawakhs can reach speeds of up to 40 mph and were traditionally used to hunt gazelles in the Sahara.
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.
Azawakh
Origin:
Ancient sighthound from West Africa's Sahel region, serving as guardians and hunters for nomadic Tuareg tribes. Prized for their ability to hunt gazelle in harsh desert conditions.
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.
Azawakh
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Needs protection in cold weather. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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