Portuguese Water Dog vs Norwich Terrier
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Norwich Terrier: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Norwich Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Norwich Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Norwich Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Norwich Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Norwich Terrier5/5
Living Requirements
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
Norwich Terrier
Tracheal collapse: Airway weakness
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye problems: Progressive issues
Dental disease: Tooth decay risk
Epilepsy: Seizure disorder risk
Heart issues: Valve problems
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
Norwich Terrier
Pros
Affectionate with family
Good with children
Adaptable
Low maintenance grooming
Cons
Can be stubborn
Prone to barking
Strong prey drive
May be territorial
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.
Norwich Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Norwich Terriers were historically used to flush out foxes during hunts!
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.
Norwich Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Eastern England during the 1800s, these tenacious terriers served as ratters in stables and farmyards, proving especially valuable in Norfolk county.
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.
Norwich Terrier
Regular dental care essential. Needs consistent exercise despite small size. Watch for signs of respiratory issues common in small terriers.
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