Portuguese Water Dog vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier3/5
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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
PLN: Protein-losing nephropathy
PLE: Protein-losing enteropathy
RD: Renal dysplasia concerns
Addison's: Adrenal insufficiency
IBD: Inflammatory bowel disease
Hip Dysplasia: Joint 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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Pros
Minimal shedding coat
Good with families
Adaptable to different homes
Friendly personality
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
Health issues common
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.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Fun Fact
Their soft, silky coat is unique among terriers, who typically have wiry fur.
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.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s as a versatile farm dog, skilled at hunting vermin, herding livestock, and serving as a loyal family companion.
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.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Watch for signs of protein-losing conditions and maintain regular vet check-ups.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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