Working Kelpie vs Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Working Kelpie: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Working Kelpie: Independent0.4
Portuguese Water Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Working Kelpie: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Portuguese Water Dog: Daily Brushing0.8
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Working Kelpie5/5
Portuguese Water Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Working Kelpie3/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Good with Strangers
Working Kelpie5/5
Portuguese Water Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Working Kelpie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Neurological concern
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defects
Cryptorchidism: Reproductive issue
Joint Problems: Working strain impact
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
Working Kelpie
Pros
Exceptional working ability
High intelligence
Strong endurance
Loyal companion
Low grooming needs
Cons
Extremely high exercise needs
Can be too intense for casual owners
Strong herding instincts
May be too energetic for small spaces
Requires constant mental stimulation
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
Working Kelpie Fun Fact
Working Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, showcasing their legendary endurance.
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
Working Kelpie
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1870s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs revolutionized livestock management through their exceptional working abilities and stamina.
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
Working Kelpie
Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming is minimal but necessary. Health monitoring should focus on eyes and joints due to working strain.
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.
Related Comparisons
Similar Size
Working Kelpie vs Afghan Hound →