Border Terrier vs Portuguese Water Dog
Terrier · Small vs Working · Medium
Border TerrierSmall
An affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border.
Weight: 13–15.5 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Portuguese Water DogMedium
An affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets.
Weight: 42–60 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Portuguese Water Dog is the larger breed at 42–60 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
- • The Border Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Portuguese Water Dog sheds less.
- • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Border Terrier | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Working |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | England | Portugal |
Height (male) | 13–15" | 20–23" |
Height (female) | 13–15" | 17–21" |
Weight (male) | 13–15.5 lbs | 42–60 lbs |
Weight (female) | 11.5–14 lbs | 35–50 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | 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. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | 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 | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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About the Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.
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.
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Border Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Heart problems
Portuguese Water Dog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Storage diseases