Portuguese Water Dog vs Bullmastiff
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Bullmastiff: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Bullmastiff: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Bullmastiff: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Bullmastiff3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Bullmastiff3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Bullmastiff3/5
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
Bullmastiff
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Cancer: Higher susceptibility
Joint Issues: Elbow dysplasia
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
Bullmastiff
Pros
Loyal and protective
Good with family
Low grooming needs
Quiet nature
Excellent guardians
Cons
Heavy droolers
Shorter lifespan
Size management issues
Not good with strangers
Health concerns
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.
Bullmastiff Fun Fact
Despite their imposing size, Bullmastiffs were bred to be 'silent guardians' and rarely bark unnecessarily.
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.
Bullmastiff
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s by gamekeepers to combat poaching. Combined strength of Mastiff with agility of Bulldog to create silent guardians for large estates.
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.
Bullmastiff
Requires early socialization and training to manage size. Drooling and shedding need regular attention. Health monitoring essential due to breed-specific issues.
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