Portuguese Water Dog vs Mixed - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Mixed is originated from United States but Portuguese Water Dog is originated from Portugal. Mixed may grow 53 cm / 21 inches higher than Portuguese Water Dog. Mixed may weigh 85 kg / 188 pounds more than Portuguese Water Dog. Mixed may live 5 years more than Portuguese Water Dog. Mixed may have more litter size than Portuguese Water Dog. Mixed requires Moderate Maintenance. But Portuguese Water Dog requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Companion dog
Working dog
undefined
United States
Portugal
Height Male:
9 - 110 cm
3 - 44 inches
43 - 57 cm
16 - 23 inches
Height Female:
9 - 110 cm
3 - 44 inches
43 - 57 cm
16 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
2 - 112 kg
4 - 247 pounds
16 - 27 kg
35 - 60 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 112 kg
4 - 247 pounds
16 - 27 kg
35 - 60 pounds
Life Span:
9 - 20 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 12
5 - 8
Size:
Large
Medium
Other Names:
Cross breed, mutt, cur, mongrel
PWD, Water Dog, Portie
Colors Available:
cream, tri-colored, Brown, tan, black, white, bi-colored, liver, chocolate
black and white, or silver-tipped, Black, brown
Coat:
Short to long, single or double-coat
single coated - curly and wavy
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Detached, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

Many people are inclined to think that mixed breed or cross-breed dogs, also known as mutts or mongrels or designer dogs are just pavement specials. They think they look nothing much better than junkyard mutts.

This may be so, but not always, and these mixed breed dogs always seem to have hearts of gold. A Mixed breed is a dog that has parent’s who aren’t registered and who come from different breeds. In other words the parents aren’t of the same breed.

Guessing a cross breed’s ancestry can be difficult as these mixed-breeds have more genetic variation than pure breeds. They've been around since ancient times. The dogs originate in different countries and they all have different coats, different sizes and different temperaments.

It is sad but true – there are literally millions of mixed dogs worldwide, some of which never know what it is to live with- and be lovingly cared for by a human being.

portuguese water dogThe Portuguese Water Dog is a working dog hailing from the Portuguese region of the Algarve. The dog has always been a friend of the sea, working around fishing boats, loving his life around water.

He descends from dogs that have always been used by Portuguese fishermen, and its believed he has Poodle in him. Known also as the Cao de Agua, which means Dog of the Water, the Portie as he is also known, almost disappeared.

Their numbers dropped in the early 20th century, but a certain Vasco Bensuade saved the breed, forming a breed club, writing a breed standard.

They then also made their way to England and the United States. It was in 1972 that the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America formed. In 1983, the AKC recognized the dog as a distinct breed.

Description

Sometimes Mixed dog breeds come about from two dogs meeting on the streets and mating or it could be two pure-breeds accidentally mating, resulting in a mixed breed.

The mixed breed dog puppy could inherit looks from just the one purebred parent so that he grows up looking like a pure-breed. With a cross breed the standard for breeding isn’t the same for purebreds where the appearance and temperament is more or less the same.

A mixed breed dog doesn’t have these standards to conform to and they are as varied and unique as the colors in the rainbow. It’s not possible to know what a mixed breed dog’s puppies will look like. A typical example of a mixed breed is a Labradoodle. People love the temperament of the Labrador but they want the low shedding qualities of the Poodle as well.

Mixed breed dogs can be small or large and that means different litter sizes. If you don’t want your Mixed dog breed becoming a parent, you can spay or neuter your dog.

Temperament:

There are many people who avoid choosing a ridiculously high priced pure breed puppy and they prefer to choose a mixed breed. This is partly because these mixed breed dogs are healthy, resilient and nearly always a good match for you and your family.

portuguese water dog puppy - descriptionStanding at between 43 and 57cm in height and weighing in the region of 16 to 27kg, the Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized, curly-coated dog.

It is believed that the dog is hypoallergenic. He does however shed, though not a lot. He just loves the water and is always ready to plunge in. One of the distinctive characteristics of this dog is its webbed feet.

Temparament:

The Portuguese Water Dog is an intelligent dog that will do well with training and socialization.

It won’t be troublesome training this dog as he is intelligent. They're also calm dogs. Referred to fondly as the Portie, this is a fun-loving dog, friendly and social, getting on well with all members of his human family.

These dogs get on well with children and other family pets. They can be reserved toward strangers, but this makes them good watchdogs.

Characteristics

Doesn’t matter what your Mixed breed dog looks like – he is a unique individual and you can never really predict what kind of a character he will turn out to be.

He might inherit a bit of placid behavior from one parent and a bit of clownish behavior from the other. It’s what makes them so special.

Ask most dog lovers who have owned a mixed breed and you will usually hear them say that they wouldn’t trade their amazing loyal and devoted pet for all the money in the world.

portuguese water dog dog - characteristicsWith training, your Portie can make a splendid pet. He is also adaptable to different living situations, and is capable of living in the city or in the countryside, just so long as his exercise needs are met.

He is such an affectionate and loyal, fun-loving dog while also being hard working, and all these wonderful characteristics mean that he can be a treasured pet and companion.

Health Problems

All dogs, whether pure breeds or mixed breeds, need to be excellently cared for. When you consider the unconditional love your dog gives you, you want to ensure that you’re kind and loving towards him.

Every dog can be prone to common dog illnesses and there are some genetic predispositions for dogs with certain breeds within them.

Dental Disease:

All dogs can battle with problem teeth, but it appears to be more rife with smaller dogs. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up and when it isn’t removed from the teeth it progresses towards infection of the gums and teeth.

What you need to know is that not caring for the teeth can mean your pet losing his teeth but also putting your dog in danger of joint disease and problems with the kidneys and heart.

Obesity:

Obesity is a huge factor in small- and large dogs and can pave the way for other diseases with your pet. Being obese can shorten the life of your pet because it contributes to heart disease, digestive disorders, back pain and joint problems.

Parasites:

Fleas, ticks, mites and worms can play havoc with the health of your pet. Some of these parasites can then be transmitted from your pet to you. Parasites can cause pain, weight loss and even death for your pet so it is important to be vigilant in these matters.

Bloat, when the stomach twists and fills with gas as well as cancer and heart disease are just some of the more common diseases to look out for.

portuguese water dog puppies - health problemsPortuguese Water Dogs are generally healthy, but like most other dogs they are more prone to certain heath conditions, though your pet is unlikely to get any of them. Still it pays to know of some of the more complicated- and disabling ones.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is where the thighbone doesn't fit properly into the hip joint. Hip dysplasia spells pain for your dog and he may show lameness with one or both rear legs. Arthritis can develop too.

Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but it can be worsened by allowing your dog to become obese and from injuries from leaping off your bed for instance.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):

This is a degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness, but fortunately it is detectable long before the dog shows signs of blindness.

Reputable breeders have the eyes of their dog certified each year by a veterinary ophthalmologist and they don’t allow the dogs to produce puppies.

Caring The Pet

Good nutritious food, exercise, grooming, a dry place to sleep, taking your pet to the vet when he is sick as well as plenty of love and attention will ensure your Mixed dog breed’s health and happiness.

  • Brush his coat twice a week.
  • Check the ears and eyes for infection.
  • Check his teeth and be careful what you give your pet to chew on.

Keep die diet of your pet simple and consistent to avoid digestive problems. Quality commercially manufactured food is a good choice. Boiled chicken, brown rice and cooked or raw vegetables will be excellent added into your dog’s kibble from time to time. Add in some raw meat occasionally as it is good for warding off skin diseases.

Exercise your pet regularly, but don’t overdo it with young dogs as it can lead to joint problems later on in life.

portuguese water dog dogs - caringYour Portie is a dog that loves outdoor life and lots of exercise. Take him with you on your walks and give him a run off his leash. When he gets home, if you have a pool h’ll be the first to plunge right in. He makes a great pet to have at the sea too.

Provide him with plenty of nice chewy toys, balls and ropes so he doesn’t get bored.

Provide him with a nice, dry, warm sleeping area and don’t allow him to be disturbed when he retreats there.

Keep his vaccines up to date to prevent some life threatening illnesses.

Provide him with high quality food that has lots of vitamins and minerals instead of fillers, preservatives, colorants and toxins.

There are some excellent commercially manufactured dog foods which can be convenient and good for your pet. Try and provide him with some tasty homemade food occasionally. Nothing spicy and exotic. Dogs thrive on simplicity and consistency.

Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta, carrots, spinach and sweet potatoes chopped up and added twice week to the dry kibble is all your dog requires to keep him energetic happy, thankful, healthy and happy.

A little bit of raw meat added in from time to time will be superb. See that he always has access to clean, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Portuguese Water Dog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Portuguese Water Dog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Portuguese Water Dog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Portuguese Water Dog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Portuguese Water Dog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Portuguese Water Dog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Portuguese Water Dog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Portuguese Water Dog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Portuguese Water Dog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Portuguese Water Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Portuguese Water Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Portuguese Water Dog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Portuguese Water Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Portuguese Water Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Portuguese Water Dog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Portuguese Water Dog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Portuguese Water Dog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Portuguese Water Dog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Portuguese Water Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Portuguese Water Dog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Portuguese Water Dog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Portuguese Water Dog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Portuguese Water Dog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Portuguese Water Dog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Portuguese Water Dog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Mixed vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Mixed vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Mixed vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Mixed vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Mixed vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Mixed vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Mixed vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Mixed vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Mixed vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Mixed vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Mixed vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Mixed vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Mixed vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Mixed vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Mixed vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Mixed vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Mixed vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Mixed vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Mixed vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Mixed vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Mixed vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Mixed vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Mixed vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Mixed vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Mixed vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison