American Eskimo vs Portuguese Water Dog Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Eskie or PWD?

Compare the American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Eskie or a PWD? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Eskimo Spitz, German Spitz, American Spitz, Eskie

Cao De Agua, Portie, Water Dog, PWD

Weight

What is the average weight of American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog?

30.0 pounds ( 14 kg )

47.5 pounds ( 22 kg )

Height

What is the average height of American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog

17.0 inches ( 43.2 cm )

20.0 inches ( 50.8 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog?

American Eskimo has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Portuguese Water Dog has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are American Eskimos or Portuguese Water Dogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the American Eskimo is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Portuguese Water Dogs are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog dogs?

Alert
Friendly
Intelligent
Energetic
Independent
Protective

Brave
Impetuous
Obedient
Docile
Intelligent
Quarrelsome

Shedding Level

Do American Eskimos shed more than Portuguese Water Dogs, or which breed sheds more, American Eskimos or Portuguese Water Dogs?

American Eskimos shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Portuguese Water Dogs shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog?

American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, these breeds are going to make sure everyone knows about it.

Origin

What is the origin of American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog dog breeds?

Germany

Portugal

Ancestry

What are the origins of American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

northern spitz

poodle

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Continental Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
National Kennel Club
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
United Kennel Club

American Kennel Club
Canadian Kennel Club
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Australian National Kennel Council
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
The Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds first developed?

early 1900s

700 BC

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog dogs?

Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog?

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

Fawn
White

Black
White
Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

American Eskimos have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Portuguese Water Dogs have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog?

Straight

Curly

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

An American Eskimo can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

10-14 puppies per pregnancy

A Portuguese Water Dog can have a litter of 10-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

American Eskimos have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Portuguese Water Dogs are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

Retinal Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Addison's Disease

Hip Dysplasia
Addison's Disease
Follicular Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog?

Patellar Luxation

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

Eye
Blood
Knee
Hip X-Rays

Eye
Hip
Blood Test
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of American Eskimos and Portuguese Water Dogs compare?

American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

American Eskimo vs Portuguese Water Dog social needs comparison

American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

American Eskimo vs Portuguese Water Dog exercise need comparison.

The American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds need significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog?

American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog?

The American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do American Eskimos or Portuguese Water Dogs bark more/less frequently?

American Eskimo dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Portuguese Water Dog dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Territorial

Is the American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog a better guard dog?

American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog breeds are generally not considered the best guard dogs as their primary trait is not defense. Although they possess the capability to defend their territory or owners, it may not be their strongest trait.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: American Eskimo vs Portuguese Water Dog?

Roaming urge

American Eskimo vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog entertained?

Sniffing, Walk, Play, Fetch, Tug-of-war, Run, Walking fast, Jumping, Shake, Eating Snacks, Nap, Walking, Playing, Barking, Trekking

Walking, Petting, Running, Run, Frisbee, Swim, Fetch, Nose work, Sniffing, Drinking water, Jogging, Walk, Tug-of-war, Jump

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, American Eskimos or Portuguese Water Dogs?

Medium

American Eskimos are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

High

Portuguese Water Dogs are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog walk each week?

7 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For American Eskimo, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Portuguese Water Dog, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do American Eskimos or Portuguese Water Dogs require more exercise?

60 minutes

Both American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, American Eskimos or Portuguese Water Dogs?

American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog dogs?

Daily

Ideally, American Eskimo should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Weekly

Portuguese Water Dog should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for American Eskimos and Portuguese Water Dogs?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Scissors
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog in cups?

2.5 cups

American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog share the same recommended daily food intake of 2.5 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog?

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of an American Eskimo is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Portuguese Water Dog is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog?

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of an American Eskimo is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Portuguese Water Dog is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: American Eskimos vs Portuguese Water Dogs

American Eskimo has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Portuguese Water Dog is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: American Eskimo vs Portuguese Water Dog?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog?

American Eskimos make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

The Portuguese Water Dog is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do American Eskimos or Portuguese Water Dogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog?

Cat Friendly

Do American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

American Eskimos are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Portuguese Water Dogs are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog?

American Eskimos and Portuguese Water Dogs are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: American Eskimo or Portuguese Water Dog?

American Eskimos are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Portuguese Water Dogs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog?

American Eskimos are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Portuguese Water Dogs are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of American Eskimos and Portuguese Water Dogs compare?

American Eskimo and Portuguese Water Dog dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.