Portuguese Water Dog vs Boston Terrier
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Boston Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Boston Terrier: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Boston Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Boston Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Boston Terrier4/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Boston Terrier5/5
Living Requirements
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
Boston Terrier
Brachycephalic Syndrome: Breathing issues
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap problems
Cataracts: Vision deterioration
Cherry Eye: Third eyelid disorder
Deafness: Hearing loss risk
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac concerns
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
Boston Terrier
Pros
Great with families
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Adaptable
Friendly personality
Cons
Breathing difficulties
Heat sensitive
Potential snoring
Some stubbornness
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.
Boston Terrier Fun Fact
Known as 'American Gentleman' due to their tuxedo-like coat pattern and gentle, courteous nature.
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.
Boston Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Boston, Massachusetts during the 1870s, these dogs were bred from bull and terrier types to create a refined companion dog for city dwellers.
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.
Boston Terrier
Sensitive to extreme temperatures due to flat face. Regular eye cleaning needed. Moderate exercise requirements with attention to breathing during activity.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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