Portuguese Water Dog vs Chihuahua
Breed Compatibility
67% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Chihuahua: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Chihuahua: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Chihuahua: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Chihuahua1/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Chihuahua3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Chihuahua2/5
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
Chihuahua
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Hydrocephalus: Fluid in brain cavity
Dental Issues: Tooth overcrowding
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar risk
Tracheal Collapse: Airway weakness
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
Chihuahua
Pros
Highly portable
Long lifespan
Minimal space requirements
Strong loyalty to owners
Cons
Fragile physique
Can be yappy
May be aggressive if not socialized
Temperature sensitive
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.
Chihuahua Fun Fact
The smallest dog ever recorded was a Chihuahua named Miracle Milly, weighing only 1 pound at maturity.
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.
Chihuahua
Origin:
Revered companions in ancient Toltec civilization of Mexico, these small dogs served as sacred animals and cherished companions to nobility during the pre-Columbian era.
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.
Chihuahua
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to fragile build, and attention to dental health. Regular grooming and consistent training essential.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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