Portuguese Water Dog vs Bergamasco Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Calm0.4
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
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
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye problems: Progressive conditions
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Elbow dysplasia: Joint issues
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
Dental issues: Periodontal disease
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
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Pros
Excellent guardian instincts
Low-shedding coat
Intelligent and trainable
Good with families
Cons
Complex grooming needs
Strong-willed nature
Requires experienced owner
Needs regular exercise
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.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their unique matted coat can take up to five years to fully develop into its characteristic flocked appearance.
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.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Origin:
Dating back to ancient Persia, these dogs served as guardians and herders in the Italian Alps, particularly in the Bergamo region, protecting sheep from predators.
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.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Unique coat requires specific grooming knowledge. Regular exercise essential for mental stimulation. Monitor for common health issues like hip dysplasia.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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