Swedish Vallhund vs Portuguese Podengo
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Portuguese Podengo: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Portuguese Podengo: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Portuguese Podengo: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Portuguese Podengo5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Portuguese Podengo5/5
Good with Strangers
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Portuguese Podengo3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Swedish Vallhund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Retinal Dysplasia: Eye development issue
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Swedish Vallhund Retinopathy: Vision
Intervertebral Disk Disease: Spine
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision
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
Swedish Vallhund
Pros
Highly trainable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Seasonal shedding
Strong herding instinct
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
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
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
Swedish Vallhund
Origin:
Dating back to the Viking Age in Sweden, these dogs served as versatile farm helpers, excelling in cattle herding and vermin control throughout Västergötland.
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
Swedish Vallhund
Regular grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise requirements, and early socialization to manage herding instincts are essential care aspects.
Portuguese Podengo
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly brushing needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain physical condition.
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