Greyhound vs Portuguese Water Dog

Hound · Large vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Greyhound is the larger breed at 65–70 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 has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog sheds less.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGreyhoundPortuguese Water Dog
Group
HoundWorking
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
EgyptPortugal
Height (male)
28–30"20–23"
Height (female)
27–28"17–21"
Weight (male)
65–70 lbs42–60 lbs
Weight (female)
60–65 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)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.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Greyhound

The Greyhound is a gentle, independent, noble sighthound — the fastest dog (45 mph) and biggest couch potato off-track. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 65–70 lbs and lives 10–13 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, independent, noble.

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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Greyhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity

Portuguese Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Storage diseases