Portuguese Water Dog vs German Wirehaired Pointer
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
German Wirehaired Pointer: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
German Wirehaired Pointer: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
German Wirehaired Pointer: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
German Wirehaired Pointer3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
German Wirehaired Pointer3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
German Wirehaired Pointer4/5
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 Wirehaired Pointer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward
Gastric Torsion: Stomach bloating risk
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 Wirehaired Pointer
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Versatile working ability
Strong tracking skills
Loyal family dog
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
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 Wirehaired Pointer Fun Fact
Their wiry coat is naturally water-repellent and can protect them while working in thick brush or icy water.
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 Wirehaired Pointer
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 19th century, these versatile gun dogs excelled at hunting various game in different terrains. Master trackers and retrievers on both land and water.
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 Wirehaired Pointer
Weekly brushing and hand-stripping of coat needed. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular health monitoring for breed-specific issues important.
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