Standard Schnauzer vs Portuguese Water Dog Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Schnauzer or PWD?

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

Differences only

Other names

Wirehair Pinscher, Mittelschnauzer, Schnauzer

Cao De Agua, Portie, Water Dog, PWD

Weight

What is the average weight of Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog?

45.0 pounds ( 20 kg )

47.5 pounds ( 22 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog

19.0 inches ( 48.3 cm )

20.0 inches ( 50.8 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog?

Standard Schnauzer has low obesity risk, but needs exercise and food monitoring for optimal health.

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

Hypoallergenic

Are Standard Schnauzers or Portuguese Water Dogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Yes

Both Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog are hypoallergenic dogs, which make them ideal pets for people who are allergic to pets. Although no dogs are completely hypoallergenic, these breeds come very close and are great choices for those who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog dogs?

Devoted
Intelligent
Playful
Good-natured
Lively
Trainable

Brave
Impetuous
Obedient
Docile
Intelligent
Quarrelsome

Shedding Level

Do Standard Schnauzers shed more than Portuguese Water Dogs, or which breed sheds more, Standard Schnauzers or Portuguese Water Dogs?

Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog?

Standard Schnauzer 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 Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog dog breeds?

Germany

Portugal

Ancestry

What are the origins of Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

schnauzer, pinscher, poodle, wolf spitz

poodle

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
Australian National Kennel Council
Canadian Kennel Club
Continental Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
United Kennel Club
American Canine Association, Inc.

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 Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog breeds first developed?

middle ages

700 BC

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog?

Working (AKC:1904)
Herding (UKC)

Working (AKC:1983)
Gun Dogs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

Black
Pied

Black
White
Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

The coat of Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog dogs ranges in length from short to medium.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog?

Wiry

Curly

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Standard Schnauzer 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

Standard Schnauzers 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 Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

The Standard Schnauzer is prone to health issues and requires regular check-ups with a vet to identify and treat any problems early.

While the Portuguese Water Dog breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

Diabetes
Pancreatitis

Hip Dysplasia
Addison's Disease
Follicular Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

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

Cataracts
Bladder Stones
Portosystemic Shunt

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog breeds?

Blood
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Eye
Hip
Blood Test
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Standard Schnauzers and Portuguese Water Dogs compare?

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

Social Needs

Standard Schnauzer vs Portuguese Water Dog social needs comparison

Standard Schnauzer has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Portuguese Water Dog has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Standard Schnauzer vs Portuguese Water Dog exercise need comparison.

The Standard Schnauzer 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: Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog?

Standard Schnauzer 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, Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog?

The Standard Schnauzer 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 Standard Schnauzers or Portuguese Water Dogs bark more/less frequently?

Standard Schnauzers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

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 Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog a better guard dog?

Standard Schnauzer dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

While Portuguese Water Dog dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Standard Schnauzer vs Portuguese Water Dog?

Roaming urge

Standard Schnauzer vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog entertained?

Walking, Barking, Walks, Playing, Smelling, Running, Hikes, Fetching

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, Standard Schnauzers or Portuguese Water Dogs?

Medium

Standard Schnauzers 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 Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog walk each week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Standard Schnauzer, it's at least 8 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 Standard Schnauzers or Portuguese Water Dogs require more exercise?

60 minutes

Both Standard Schnauzer 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, Standard Schnauzers or Portuguese Water Dogs?

Standard Schnauzers have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

The Portuguese Water Dog requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog dogs?

Daily

Ideally, Standard Schnauzer 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 Standard Schnauzers and Portuguese Water Dogs?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Scissors
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog in cups?

2 cups

For an average 40-50 pound (18 - 23 kg) Standard Schnauzer feed 2 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

2.5 cups

For an average 42-60 pound (19 - 27 kg) Portuguese Water Dog feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog?

$2.50 - $2.80 / day

The average cost of a Standard Schnauzer is somewhere $2.50 - $2.80 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, Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog?

$74 - $84 / month

The average per month expenses of a Standard Schnauzer is between $74 - $84. This makes an average of $888 - $1008 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: Standard Schnauzers vs Portuguese Water Dogs

The Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog breeds are considered very intelligent and easy to train.

Sensitivity Level

How do Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Standard Schnauzer 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: Standard Schnauzer vs Portuguese Water Dog?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog?

Standard Schnauzers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

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 Standard Schnauzers or Portuguese Water Dogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Standard Schnauzer 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 - Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog?

Cat Friendly

Do Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Standard Schnauzers and Portuguese Water Dogs are one of the best dogs for cats. They accept cats readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog?

Standard Schnauzers 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 Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Standard Schnauzer or Portuguese Water Dog?

Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Standard Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog?

Standard Schnauzers 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 Standard Schnauzers and Portuguese Water Dogs compare?

Standard Schnauzer 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.