Bloodhound vs Portuguese Water Dog

Hound · Large vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Bloodhound is the larger breed at 90–110 lbs (males) vs 42–60 lbs for the Portuguese Water Dog.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Portuguese Water Dog sheds less.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBloodhoundPortuguese Water Dog
Group
HoundWorking
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
BelgiumPortugal
Height (male)
25–27"20–23"
Height (female)
23–25"17–21"
Weight (male)
90–110 lbs42–60 lbs
Weight (female)
80–100 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is a friendly, independent, inquisitive scenthound — the world's premier nose, used in police tracking. Originally from Belgium, this large hound breed typically weighs 90–110 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, inquisitive.

About the Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog is an affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets. Originally from Portugal, this medium working breed typically weighs 42–60 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, athletic, smart.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Bloodhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections

Portuguese Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Storage diseases