Kuvasz vs Portuguese Water Dog

Working · Large vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Kuvasz is the larger breed at 100–115 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

TraitKuvaszPortuguese Water Dog
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
HungaryPortugal
Height (male)
28–30"20–23"
Height (female)
26–28"17–21"
Weight (male)
100–115 lbs42–60 lbs
Weight (female)
70–90 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.
High (4/5)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
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Kuvasz

The Kuvasz is a loyal, courageous, fearless white Hungarian guardian — flock protector with double-thick weather coat. Originally from Hungary, this large working breed typically weighs 100–115 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, courageous, fearless.

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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Kuvasz health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Osteochondritis dissecans

Portuguese Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Storage diseases