Portuguese Water Dog vs Harrier
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Harrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Harrier: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Harrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Harrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Harrier5/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Harrier4/5
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
Harrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Eye Problems: Various vision concerns
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormone deficiency
Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus risk
Ear Infections: Common due to drop ears
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
Harrier
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Athletic and energetic
Social and friendly
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong hunting instincts
Can be vocal
Needs secure fencing
Not apartment suitable
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.
Harrier Fun Fact
Harriers were specifically bred to hunt hares at a pace that allowed hunters to follow on foot rather than horseback.
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.
Harrier
Origin:
Developed in medieval England during the 13th century, these skilled pack hunters excelled at tracking hares. Their size made them ideal for hunters following on foot rather than horseback.
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.
Harrier
Requires secure fencing due to strong hunting instincts. Weekly grooming maintains coat health. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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