West Highland White Terrier vs Portuguese Podengo
Breed Compatibility
89% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Podengo: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Portuguese Podengo: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Portuguese Podengo: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Portuguese Podengo5/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Portuguese Podengo5/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Portuguese Podengo3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
West Highland White Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Addison's Disease: Hormone deficiency
White Shaker Syndrome: Tremor condition
Pulmonary Fibrosis: Lung tissue scarring
Skin Allergies: Dermatological issues
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
West Highland White Terrier
Pros
Adaptable to different living situations
Good with families
Low-shedding coat
Alert watchdog
Cons
Can be stubborn
Regular grooming required
May chase small animals
Can 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
West Highland White Terrier Fun Fact
Their white coat was specifically bred after a farmer accidentally shot his reddish-brown terrier, mistaking it for a fox!
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
West Highland White Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s, these terriers were bred to hunt rats, foxes, and other vermin in the Scottish Highlands, with their white coat making them easily distinguishable from prey.
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
West Highland White Terrier
Regular grooming is essential for their double coat. They need consistent training to manage terrier stubbornness and require proper socialization to prevent small animal chasing.
Portuguese Podengo
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly brushing needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain physical condition.