Miniature Bull Terrier vs Portuguese Water Dog

Terrier · Small vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Portuguese Water Dog is the larger breed at 42–60 lbs (males) vs 18–28 lbs for the Miniature Bull Terrier.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog sheds less.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitMiniature Bull TerrierPortuguese Water Dog
Group
TerrierWorking
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandPortugal
Height (male)
10–14"20–23"
Height (female)
10–14"17–21"
Weight (male)
18–28 lbs42–60 lbs
Weight (female)
18–28 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 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.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)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
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)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 Miniature Bull Terrier

The Miniature Bull Terrier is a playful, charming, mischievous mini version of the Bull Terrier — same egg-head, smaller package. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 18–28 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, charming, mischievous.

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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Miniature Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart issues
  • Skin problems

Portuguese Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Storage diseases