Pomsky vs Portuguese Water Dog

Miscellaneous · Small vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Portuguese Water Dog is the larger breed at 42–60 lbs (males) vs 20–30 lbs for the Pomsky.
  • The Pomsky typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Pomsky has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog sheds less.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPomskyPortuguese Water Dog
Group
MiscellaneousWorking
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
USAPortugal
Height (male)
10–15"20–23"
Height (female)
10–15"17–21"
Weight (male)
20–30 lbs42–60 lbs
Weight (female)
20–30 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Pomsky

The Pomsky is an energetic, playful, intelligent Pomeranian × Husky hybrid — Husky's fluff in a Pomeranian frame. Originally from USA, this small miscellaneous breed typically weighs 20–30 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as energetic, playful, intelligent.

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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Pomsky health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Skin allergies

Portuguese Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Storage diseases