Portuguese Water Dog vs Pyrenean Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Pyrenean Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Pyrenean Shepherd: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Pyrenean Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Pyrenean Shepherd3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Pyrenean Shepherd3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Pyrenean Shepherd3/5
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
Pyrenean Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Patellar Luxation: Knee issues
Heart Defects: Cardiac concerns
Dental Issues: Teeth 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
Pyrenean Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent agility
Strong herding instinct
Devoted to family
Low maintenance coat
Cons
Can be strong-willed
High exercise needs
May be reserved with strangers
Tendency to bark
Requires early socialization
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.
Pyrenean Shepherd Fun Fact
Known as one of the most agile herding breeds, they can turn on a dime while working at full speed!
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.
Pyrenean Shepherd
Origin:
Mountain herders in the Pyrenees region of France since medieval times, these dogs expertly managed sheep flocks across challenging alpine terrain while working closely with shepherds.
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.
Pyrenean Shepherd
Needs early socialization and consistent training. Regular grooming required for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met to prevent behavioral issues.
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