Scottish Deerhound vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Scottish Deerhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Scottish Deerhound: Independent0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Scottish Deerhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Scottish Deerhound3/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Scottish Deerhound5/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Scottish Deerhound3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Scottish Deerhound
Cardiomyopathy: Heart muscle disease
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Osteosarcoma: Bone cancer risk
Liver shunt: Blood flow issue
Eye problems: Vision concerns
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
Scottish Deerhound
Pros
Gentle and dignified temperament
Low barking tendency
Good with other dogs
Minimal grooming needs
Cons
Requires large living space
High exercise needs
Short lifespan
Strong prey drive
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
Scottish Deerhound Fun Fact
Scottish Deerhounds can reach speeds of up to 30 mph and were once so prized that no one below an earl's rank could own one.
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.
Heritage & Purpose
Scottish Deerhound
Origin:
During medieval times in the Scottish Highlands, these noble hounds served as royal hunting companions, pursuing red deer across rugged terrain. Their exceptional speed and size made them ideal for this 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.
Special Considerations
Scottish Deerhound
Secure fencing is essential due to prey drive. Regular exercise is crucial but should be moderate in puppies to protect growing joints. Health monitoring is important.
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.
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