Portuguese Water Dog vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Serious digestive emergency
Eye Problems: Various hereditary issues
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Splenic Torsion: Emergency condition
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog capabilities
Good with children
Strong and athletic
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy shedding seasonally
Not apartment-friendly
Can be stubborn
Expensive to feed
Short lifespan
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.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
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.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable working companions.
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.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.
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