Portuguese Water Dog vs Great Dane
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Great Dane: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Great Dane: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Great Dane: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Great Dane3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Great Dane3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Great Dane3/5
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
Great Dane
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
DCM: Heart muscle disease
Eye problems: Vision issues
Wobbler syndrome: Spinal condition
Bone cancer: Higher risk breed
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
Great Dane
Pros
Gentle with family
Excellent guard dog
Minimal grooming needs
Adaptable personality
Cons
Short lifespan
High food costs
Space requirements
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.
Great Dane Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, Great Danes were historically known as 'Apollo of dogs' for their elegance.
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.
Great Dane
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 16th century as boar hunters and estate guardians. Later refined as noble companions, these dogs served both practical and prestigious roles.
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.
Great Dane
Prone to bloat - requires scheduled feeding and rest periods. Exercise needs careful monitoring during growth. Regular vet checks essential for early health issue detection.
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