Golden Retriever vs Portuguese Water Dog
| Attribute | Golden Retriever | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Height | 55 - 61 cm | 43 - 58 cm |
| Weight | 29 kg | 21 kg |
| Life Expectancy | 11 years | 12 years |
| FCI Group | Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs | Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs |
| Grooming | Medium | Medium |
| Shedding | High | None |
| Energy Level | High | High |
| Trainability | High | High |
| Child Friendly | High | High |
| Character | The Golden Retriever is known for its friendly and balanced nature. | The Portuguese Water Dog is an intelligent, lively, and extremely eager-to-learn companion that forms a close bond with its family. |
How we compare
This comparison is based on structured breed data from our Hundeo profiles and editorial fit criteria. It is meant as orientation, not as a substitute for individual advice from a trainer or veterinarian.
- Data basis: size, weight, life expectancy, FCI group, and profile details come from maintained breed profiles.
- Everyday fit: grooming, activity, trainability, child-friendliness, and living situation are evaluated as guidance for common owner questions.
- Independence: breed comparisons do not contain paid placements; recommendations follow the criteria, not commissions.
- Limits: every dog is individual. Health, behavior, and training questions should be discussed with a veterinarian or qualified trainer when needed.
Comparison
Golden Retriever
Portuguese Water Dog
- 1Energy LevelGolden Retriever4/5Portuguese Water Dog4/5
- 2TrainabilityGolden Retriever4/5Portuguese Water Dog4/5
- 3Child FriendlyGolden Retriever4/5Portuguese Water Dog4/5
- 4GroomingGolden Retriever3/5Portuguese Water Dog3/5
- 5SheddingGolden Retriever4/5Portuguese Water Dog1/5
Summary
The Golden Retriever is a large dog (29 kg) with a life expectancy of 11 years. The Portuguese Water Dog is medium (21 kg) and lives 12 years. For grooming, the Golden Retriever rates medium, the Portuguese Water Dog medium. The Golden Retriever scores high for child-friendliness, the Portuguese Water Dog high.
Which breed is a better fit?
vsFor Beginners
Both breeds are comparable
vsFor Families
Both breeds are comparable
vsFor Active People
Both breeds are comparable
Low MaintenancePortuguese Water Dog: grooming medium, shedding none
Portuguese Water DogFor ApartmentsPortuguese Water Dog is medium with high energy
Portuguese Water DogFrequently Asked Questions
The Golden Retriever is a large dog (29 kg) with high energy. The Portuguese Water Dog is medium (21 kg) with high energy. The Golden Retriever lives 11 years, the Portuguese Water Dog 12 years.