Russell Terrier vs Portuguese Podengo
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Russell Terrier
Terrier Group
Portuguese Podengo
Miscellaneous Class
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Russell Terrier Overview
Russell Terriers are compact, muscular dogs with distinctive V-shaped ears and alert expressions. Their strong, flexible bodies feature a balanced proportion between height and length. The predominantly white coat may have tan or black markings, remaining harsh and weather-resistant. These agile terriers move with purpose and precision, displaying the athletic build essential for their historical hunting abilities.
Portuguese Podengo Overview
Portuguese Podengos are elegant sighthounds characterized by their wedge-shaped heads, erect triangular ears, and lean, muscular builds. Available in three sizes, they showcase either smooth or wire coats in various shades. Their alert expression and graceful movement reflect their heritage as skilled hunters, while their intelligent eyes convey their sharp, observant nature.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Russell Terriers are more energetic than Portuguese Podengos, requiring more daily exercise.
- Grooming: Russell Terriers require less grooming attention compared to Portuguese Podengos.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Russell Terriers tend to be more reserved with strangers than Portuguese Podengos.
- Trainability: Russell Terriers may be slightly easier to train due to their Russell Terrier's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Russell Terriers adapt better to apartment living, while Portuguese Podengos typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Russell Terrier and Portuguese Podengo, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Russell Terrier | Portuguese Podengo |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 10-12 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Terrier Group | Miscellaneous Class |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Russell Terrier | Portuguese Podengo |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 10-12 inches 25-30 cm | 16-28 inches 41-71 cm |
| Weight | 9-15 lbs 4-7 kg | 35-66 lbs 16-30 kg |
| Coat Type | Medium coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Medium | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Regularly |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Russell Terrier | Portuguese Podengo |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Alert, Inquisitive, Lively | Independent, Alert, Intelligent |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Russell Terrier | Portuguese Podengo |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Russell Terrier Temperament
The Russell Terrier is known for being alert, inquisitive, lively, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Portuguese Podengo Temperament
The Portuguese Podengo is characterized by being independent, alert, intelligent, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Russell Terrier and Portuguese Podengo, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Russell Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Russell Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Russell Terrier
Rating: 5/5
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 4/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Russell Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Russell Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Portuguese Podengo
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Russell Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Russell Terriers require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their medium coat coat, Russell Terriers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Portuguese Podengo Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Portuguese Podengos need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Portuguese Podengos require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Russell Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar Luxation
- Lens Luxation
- Deafness
- Legg-Calve-Perthes
- Glaucoma
Portuguese Podengo Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Patellar Luxation
- Dental Issues
- Allergies
Pros & Cons
Russell Terrier
Pros
- Highly energetic and playful
- Compact size suits various homes
- Intelligent and trainable
- Low grooming requirements
Cons
- High exercise needs
- Strong prey drive
- Can be stubborn
- May be vocal
Portuguese Podengo
Pros
- Highly adaptable
- Low grooming needs
- Athletic and agile
- Good watchdog
Cons
- Strong prey drive
- Independent nature
- Can be stubborn
- Needs secure fencing
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Russell Terrier and Portuguese Podengo, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.