West Highland White Terrier vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
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 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
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 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
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 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
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 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
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 Water Dog
Requires professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being. Regular eye and hip examinations recommended.