Portuguese Water Dog vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Portuguese Water Dog and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Portuguese Water Dog
Energetic, loyal, and highly trainable, this breed thrives in active families and loves water-based activities. Curly-coated and affectionate, it forms strong bonds with both adults and children.
Labrador Retriever
Eager, friendly, and intelligent, this breed loves being part of an active family. Their gentle nature and loyalty make them outstanding companions for all ages.
Quick comparison
Medium
19–27 kg
Curly or wavy, water-resistant
11–13 years
16–23 kg
High energy
Large
29–36 kg
Short double coat, water-resistant
10–12 years
25–32 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Portuguese Water Dog
Outgoing and affectionate with family and friends
Quick learner, responds well to training
Highly energetic, needs plenty of daily activity
Loves games and interactive play sessions
Adjusts well to new environments and routines
Labrador Retriever
Warm and sociable with people and animals
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts easily to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Portuguese Water Dog
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Portuguese Water Dog
Good with guidance
Needs consistent training and socialization to thrive with new owners
Needs space
Active breed may feel cramped in small apartments without daily exercise
Excellent match
Thrives in homes with regular activity and outdoor opportunities
Family friendly
Energetic but gentle, usually good with respectful young children
Generally compatible
Social and adaptable with proper introductions to other pets
Not recommended
Prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods
Labrador Retriever
Great choice
Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.
Not ideal
Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.
Perfect fit
High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.
Highly suitable
Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.
Very friendly
Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.
Prone to anxiety
Extended alone time can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors in this breed.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Portuguese Water Dog
- Excellent swimmer and natural water retriever
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
- Loyal and forms strong family bonds
- Generally healthy with robust constitution
- Low-shedding, hypoallergenic curly coat
Labrador Retriever
- Friendly and sociable with people and dogs
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Excellent with children and families
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
- Generally adaptable to various living situations
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Portuguese Water Dog
- Needs daily vigorous exercise and mental stimulation
- Can be prone to separation anxiety
- Regular grooming required to prevent matting
- May become destructive if bored or under-stimulated
- Can be wary of strangers without early socialization
Labrador Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- Can become destructive if under-exercised
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming
- May develop hip or elbow dysplasia
- Needs significant daily physical activity
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