Portuguese Water Dog vs Field Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Field Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Field Spaniel: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Field Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Field Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Field Spaniel4/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Field Spaniel4/5
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
Field Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Ear Infections: Due to long ears
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Heart Issues: Various cardiac concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
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
Field Spaniel
Pros
Gentle temperament
Good with families
Sporting abilities
Moderate exercise needs
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be reserved with strangers
Prone to ear infections
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.
Field Spaniel Fun Fact
Field Spaniels were once bred to be so long and low they nearly lost their sporting abilities!
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.
Field Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the 19th century for retrieving game birds from fields and water. Their specialized skills made them valuable hunting companions for sportsmen.
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.
Field Spaniel
Weekly grooming sessions needed for coat maintenance. Regular ear cleaning essential. Moderate exercise requirements must be met for optimal physical and mental health.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Portuguese Water Dog vs Boxer →Similar Size
Portuguese Water Dog vs Afghan Hound →