Portuguese Water DogVSSoft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Portuguese Water Dog is known for being adventurous, athletic, affectionate, while the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is typically described as happy, friendly, devoted. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 5/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

Noise-wise, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is more vocal with a barking level of 3/5, while the Portuguese Water Dog is quieter at 2/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Portuguese Water Dog may be the better choice.

The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium breed standing 43–57 cm (17–22 in) tall and weighing 16–27 kg (35–60 lbs). In comparison, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium breed at 43–49 cm (17–19 in) and 14–20 kg (31–44 lbs).

The Portuguese Water Dog is somewhat larger, though the difference isn't dramatic. Both breeds are manageable for most owners, but the size gap does affect food portions and space requirements.

The Portuguese Water Dog has a curly coat available in black, white, brown, black and white, while the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier sports a long coat in wheaten. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Portuguese Water Dog has very high energy (5/5) with very high exercise needs (5/5). The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has high energy (4/5) and high exercise needs (4/5).

The Portuguese Water Dog requires more daily activity to stay happy and healthy. Without enough exercise, they may develop destructive behaviors. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is more adaptable and can get by with shorter walks and play sessions.

For apartment dwellers, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is the stronger choice with an apartment-friendliness score of 3/5, compared to the Portuguese Water Dog's 2/5. The Portuguese Water Dog generally does better with access to a yard or larger living space.

Both breeds shed at a similar rate (1/5), so you can expect comparable amounts of loose fur from either one.

Both breeds have similar grooming demands at 4/5. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming visits will keep either breed looking their best.

Annual grooming costs average around $500 for the Portuguese Water Dog and $400 for the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Portuguese Water Dog has a lifespan of 11–13 years, while the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier lives 12–14 years. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier generally has a longer lifespan.

In terms of overall health robustness, the Portuguese Water Dog scores 4/5 compared to the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier's 3/5. The Portuguese Water Dog is generally a hardier breed with fewer genetic health concerns.

Common health issues for the Portuguese Water Dog include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, GM1 storage disease, juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is prone to protein-losing nephropathy, protein-losing enteropathy, Addison's disease, renal dysplasia. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $450 for the Portuguese Water Dog and $450 for the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

The Portuguese Water Dog is easier to train with a trainability score of 5/5, making it more suitable for first-time dog owners. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier scores 3/5 and may require more patience and experience during training sessions.

The Portuguese Water Dog ranks higher in intelligence (5/5 vs 4/5), which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Smarter dogs learn commands faster but also get bored more easily and may develop behavioral issues without mental stimulation.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

Both breeds score 4/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed can be a wonderful addition to a household with kids.

If you have other pets, the Portuguese Water Dog tends to get along better with other dogs (4/5) than the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier (3/5). Proper introductions are still important, but the Portuguese Water Dog is naturally more sociable with canine companions.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is more welcoming to strangers (4/5), while the Portuguese Water Dog tends to be more reserved (3/5). If you frequently have guests, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier's sociable nature will make entertaining easier.

The initial purchase price for a Portuguese Water Dog ranges from $2,000–$4,000, while a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier typically costs $800–$2,500. The Portuguese Water Dog has a higher upfront cost.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,550 for the Portuguese Water Dog and $1,390 for the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. The Portuguese Water Dog is more expensive to maintain year over year, mainly due to higher food costs.

Monthly food costs run about $50 for the Portuguese Water Dog and $45 for the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.