Portuguese Water Dog vs Smooth Fox Terrier
Working · Medium vs Terrier · Small
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
Smooth Fox TerrierSmall
A friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox.
Weight: 17–19 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Portuguese Water Dog is the larger breed at 42–60 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Smooth Fox Terrier.
- • The Smooth Fox Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Smooth Fox Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Portuguese Water Dog sheds less.
- • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Portuguese Water Dog | Smooth Fox Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Terrier |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | Portugal | England |
Height (male) | 20–23" | 15" |
Height (female) | 17–21" | 15" |
Weight (male) | 42–60 lbs | 17–19 lbs |
Weight (female) | 35–50 lbs | 15–17 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–13 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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.
About the Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, amusing.
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Portuguese Water Dog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Storage diseases
Smooth Fox Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Deafness