Portuguese Water Dog vs German Shepherd Dog
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
German Shepherd Dog: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
German Shepherd Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
German Shepherd Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
German Shepherd Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
German Shepherd Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
German Shepherd Dog3/5
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
German Shepherd Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
DM: Degenerative myelopathy
EPI: Digestive enzyme deficiency
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting
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
German Shepherd Dog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Loyal
Versatile
Protective
Trainable
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Can be overprotective
Health issues
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.
German Shepherd Dog Fun Fact
German Shepherds have starred in numerous films and were among the first dogs trained as guide dogs for the blind.
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.
German Shepherd Dog
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the late 1800s as a herding and working dog. Max von Stephanitz standardized the breed for military and police work, emphasizing utility and intelligence.
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.
German Shepherd Dog
Regular brushing needed during heavy shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Hip and joint health monitoring essential throughout life.
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