Whippet vs. Portuguese Water Dog: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog?

1 / 5

Whippet has low obesity risk, but needs exercise and food monitoring for optimal health.

3 / 5

Portuguese Water Dog has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Whippets or Portuguese Water Dogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Whippet is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Portuguese Water Dogs are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog dogs?

Affectionate
Gentle
Lively
Friendly
Intelligent
Quiet
Outright
Adaptable
Companionable

Brave
Impetuous
Obedient
Docile
Intelligent
Quarrelsome

Shedding Level

Do Whippets shed more than Portuguese Water Dogs, or which breed sheds more, Whippets or Portuguese Water Dogs?

2 / 5

Whippets are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

1 / 5

Portuguese Water Dogs shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog?

3 / 5

Whippets are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

4 / 5

Portuguese Water Dogs make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog dog breeds?

England

Portugal

Ancestry

What are the origins of Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

terrier, greyhound, spaniel

poodle

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

American Kennel Club
Canadian Kennel Club
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Australian National Kennel Council
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
The Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog breeds first developed?

1800s

700 BC

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog?

Hound (AKC:1888)
Sighthound & Pariah (UKC)

Working (AKC:1983)
Gun Dogs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

Black
Blue
White
Fawn
Red
Brindle

Black
White
Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

2 / 5

The coat of Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog dogs ranges in length from short to medium.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog?

Straight

Curly

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog?

A Whippet can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Portuguese Water Dog can have a litter of 10-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Whippet and Portuguese Water Dogs are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Von Willebrand's Disease
Anesthesia Sensitivity/Allergy
Corneal Dystrophy

Hip Dysplasia
Addison's Disease
Follicular Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog?

Cataracts
Lens Luxation

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

Blood Test
Dna For Vwd
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Eye
Hip
Blood Test
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Whippets and Portuguese Water Dogs compare?

5 / 5

Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Whippet vs Portuguese Water Dog social needs comparison

3 / 5

Whippet has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

5 / 5

Portuguese Water Dog has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Whippet vs Portuguese Water Dog exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

Whippets need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

4 / 5

Portuguese Water Dogs require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog?

1 / 5

Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog?

1 / 5

The Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Whippets or Portuguese Water Dogs bark more/less frequently?

1 / 5

Whippets are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

2 / 5

Portuguese Water Dog dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Territorial

Is the Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog a better guard dog?

1 / 5

Whippet dogs are not typically good guard dogs due to their lack of protective nature and weak territorial drive.

3 / 5

While Portuguese Water Dog dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Whippet vs Portuguese Water Dog?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Roaming urge

Whippet vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog entertained?

Run, Nap, Hunt, Fetch, Nose work, Eating Snacks, Dog Parks, Walks, Playdate, Tug-of-war, Toys

Walking, Petting, Running, Run, Frisbee, Swim, Fetch, Nose work, Sniffing, Drinking water, Jogging, Walk, Tug-of-war, Jump

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Whippets or Portuguese Water Dogs?

Whippets are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Portuguese Water Dogs are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

3 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog walk each week?

Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog generally need a minimum of 10 miles of walking per week, but it can be increased as long as they are comfortable with it.

Activity per Day

Do Whippets or Portuguese Water Dogs require more exercise?

Both Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Whippets or Portuguese Water Dogs?

1 / 5

The Whippet is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

3 / 5

The Portuguese Water Dog requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog dogs?

In general Whippet should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Portuguese Water Dog should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Whippets and Portuguese Water Dogs?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Scissors
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog in cups?

For an average 25-40 pound (11 - 18 kg) Whippet feed 2.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 42-60 pound (19 - 27 kg) Portuguese Water Dog feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog?

Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog have a similar average daily cost of around $1.70 - $2.00.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog?

When it comes to monthly expenses, both Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog have a similar average cost, ranging from $48 - $63. This results in an average yearly cost of around $576 - $756.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Whippets vs Portuguese Water Dogs

3 / 5

Whippets are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

4 / 5

Portuguese Water Dog is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Whippet vs Portuguese Water Dog?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog?

5 / 5

Whippets make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

4 / 5

The Portuguese Water Dog is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Whippets or Portuguese Water Dogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

1 / 5

Whippets are not cat friendly.

4 / 5

Portuguese Water Dogs are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog?

3 / 5

Whippets are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

4 / 5

Portuguese Water Dogs are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog dogs interact with other pets?

1 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Whippet or Portuguese Water Dog?

3 / 5

Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog?

3 / 5

Whippets have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

4 / 5

Portuguese Water Dogs are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Whippets and Portuguese Water Dogs compare?

4 / 5

Whippet and Portuguese Water Dog dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.