Spanish Water Dog vs Portuguese Podengo
Breed Compatibility
82% Compatible
Energy Level
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Podengo: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Portuguese Podengo: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
Portuguese Podengo: Weekly Brushing0.4
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Spanish Water Dog4/5
Portuguese Podengo5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Portuguese Podengo5/5
Good with Strangers
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Portuguese Podengo3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Spanish Water Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
CHD: Congenital heart defects possible
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid function issues
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder risk
Portuguese Podengo
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth decay tendency
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac health concerns
Pros & Cons Comparison
Spanish Water Dog
Pros
Highly trainable
Excellent swimming ability
Low shedding coat
Versatile working dog
Cons
High grooming maintenance
Requires extensive exercise
Can be reserved with strangers
Strong herding instincts
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
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
Portuguese Podengo Fun Fact
Portuguese Podengos are one of few breeds that come in three distinct sizes, each historically used for different hunting purposes.
Heritage & Purpose
Spanish Water Dog
Origin:
Developed along Spain's coastal regions during the Middle Ages, these dogs excelled in herding livestock and retrieving from water, serving as versatile working companions.
Portuguese Podengo
Origin:
Developed in Portugal during medieval times as versatile hunting dogs, particularly excelling in rabbit hunting across varied terrains. Valued for their keen sight and scenting abilities.
Special Considerations
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Portuguese Podengo
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly brushing needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain physical condition.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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