Welsh Terrier vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Welsh Terrier: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Welsh Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Welsh Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Welsh Terrier5/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Welsh Terrier3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Welsh Terrier5/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Welsh Terrier
Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
Lens luxation: eye condition
Allergies: skin sensitivities
Glaucoma: eye pressure issues
Epilepsy: neurological disorder
Thyroid problems: hormone imbalance
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
Welsh Terrier
Pros
Intelligent
Loyal
Low-shedding
Good with children
Adaptable
Alert watchdog
Cons
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
Needs regular grooming
High exercise needs
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
Welsh Terrier Fun Fact
Welsh Terriers hold the distinction of being one of the oldest existing dog breeds in the UK still bred true to type.
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
Welsh Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Wales during the 1700s, these terriers excelled at hunting foxes, badgers, and otters in the rugged Welsh countryside, demonstrating remarkable courage and tenacity.
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
Welsh Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed every 8-12 weeks. Daily exercise essential to prevent boredom. Watch for signs of common health issues like eye problems.
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.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
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