Portuguese Water Dog vs Croatian Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Croatian Sheepdog: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Croatian Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Croatian Sheepdog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Croatian Sheepdog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Croatian Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Croatian Sheepdog2/5
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
Croatian Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Dental Disease: Oral health problems
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
Croatian Sheepdog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent herding ability
Low grooming needs
Loyal companion
Cons
High exercise requirements
Can be reserved with strangers
Strong herding instinct
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.
Croatian Sheepdog Fun Fact
Croatian Sheepdogs can expertly herd flocks of up to 100 sheep without requiring constant human direction.
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.
Croatian Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in Croatia during the 14th century as versatile herding dogs, these shepherds excelled at managing flocks in the Pannonian plains and Croatian highlands.
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.
Croatian Sheepdog
Needs extensive exercise and mental stimulation. Regular brushing required during shedding seasons. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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