Portuguese Water Dog vs Boykin Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Boykin Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Boykin Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Boykin 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
Boykin Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Boykin Spaniel5/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Boykin 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
Boykin Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Exercise Induced Collapse: Activity care
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Heart Issues: Cardiac health monitoring
Collie Eye Anomaly: Genetic eye concern
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
Boykin Spaniel
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Friendly family dog
Highly trainable
Good with children
Versatile athlete
Cons
Requires regular exercise
Moderate grooming needs
Can be sensitive
Needs consistent training
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.
Boykin Spaniel Fun Fact
Known as 'the little brown dog that doesn't rock the boat' due to their compact size and steady 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.
Boykin Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in South Carolina during the early 1900s by hunters seeking a versatile retriever for waterfowl and wild turkey hunting in local swamps and marshlands.
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.
Boykin Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise routine. Monitor for common health issues and maintain regular veterinary check-ups.
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