Portuguese Water Dog vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison

Portuguese Water Dog vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed ComparisonPortuguese Water Dog is originated from Portugal but Basset Bleu de Gascogne is originated from France. Portuguese Water Dog may grow 19 cm / 8 inches higher than Basset Bleu de Gascogne. Portuguese Water Dog may weigh 9 kg / 20 pounds more than Basset Bleu de Gascogne. Both Portuguese Water Dog and Basset Bleu de Gascogne has almost same life span. Portuguese Water Dog may have more litter size than Basset Bleu de Gascogne. Portuguese Water Dog requires Low maintenance. But Basset Bleu de Gascogne requires Moderate maintenance

History

portuguese water dog - historyThe Portuguese Water Dog is a working dog hailing from the Portuguese region of the Algarve. The dog has always been a friend of the sea, working around fishing boats, loving his life around water.

He descends from dogs that have always been used by Portuguese fishermen, and its believed he has Poodle in him. Known also as the Cao de Agua, which means Dog of the Water, the Portie as he is also known, almost disappeared.

Their numbers dropped in the early 20th century, but a certain Vasco Bensuade saved the breed, forming a breed club, writing a breed standard.

They then also made their way to England and the United States. It was in 1972 that the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America formed. In 1983, the AKC recognized the dog as a distinct breed.

basset bleu de gascogne - historyThe Basset Bleu de Gascogne is an old breed and also one of the most reserved of the Basset family. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne’s history can be traced back to the 14th century, originating in the region of Gascony, France. At one time there were very few of these dogs and Alain Bourbon began doing something about this in the early 20th century, although he didn’t document his breeding practices . There are theories though and one was that he bred a few of the very first Basset Bleu de Gascognes with the Basset Saintongeois and the Grand Bleu de Gascogne.

Today the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is rarely found anywhere beyond France’s borders and there are only a few clubs for the Basset Bleu de Gascogne.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Hound dog
Origin:
Portugal
France
Height Male:
43 - 57 cm
16 - 23 inches
34 - 38 cm
13 - 15 inches
Height Female:
43 - 57 cm
16 - 23 inches
32 - 38 cm
12 - 15 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 27 kg
35 - 60 pounds
16 - 18 kg
35 - 40 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 27 kg
35 - 60 pounds
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
11 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 8
3 - 5
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
PWD, Water Dog, Portie
Blue Gascony Basset, Bleus de Gascogne
Colors Available:
black and white, or silver-tipped, Black, brown
Black with white mottling and some tan
Coat:
single coated - curly and wavy
short and smooth
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

portuguese water dog puppy - descriptionStanding at between 43 and 57cm in height and weighing in the region of 16 to 27kg, the Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized, curly-coated dog.

It is believed that the dog is hypoallergenic. He does however shed, though not a lot. He just loves the water and is always ready to plunge in. One of the distinctive characteristics of this dog is its webbed feet.

Temparament:

The Portuguese Water Dog is an intelligent dog that will do well with training and socialization.

It won’t be troublesome training this dog as he is intelligent. They're also calm dogs. Referred to fondly as the Portie, this is a fun-loving dog, friendly and social, getting on well with all members of his human family.

These dogs get on well with children and other family pets. They can be reserved toward strangers, but this makes them good watchdogs.

The Most Reserved of the Bassets

basset bleu de gascogne puppy - descriptionThe Basset Bleu de Gascogne today is a striking looking hound, and is the most reserved o the Basset breeds. When you look at him, their general appearance is large but not too heavy. Long of build, his height at the withers is about 30 – 38cm, and he weighs up to 18kg.

He has short legs, thick bones, long floppy ears and dark brown, sad eyes, but is still agile and able to get around quickly. This particular Basset has a short, smooth, dense coat which is black with a white mottled pattern and some tan marking around the feet and face. You’ll most times notice black patches over his ears and sides of his head and there will typically be a white blaze on his skull.

Gentle Expression, Gentle of Nature

The attractive Basset Bleu de Gascogne is one of 6 Basset Hound breeds, and this one is an energetic, lively dog who possesses a great sense of smell. Easy to train, he slots in well with his human family, wanting to please them all the time. They just love his dark, sorrowful brown eyes and the gentle expression on his face. With his deep bark, he tries to talk to his family. He is fairly easy to train, and with socialization and training he makes an exceptional pet.

He Likes to Roam

Perhaps one aspect of the Basset family that doesn’t go down well with dog owners is their wandering nature. As a scenthound, he often gets the scent of something and wants to put his nose down and follow it. If you haven’t got a sturdy wall or fence around your property, he’ll just wander off.

Characteristics

portuguese water dog dog - characteristicsWith training, your Portie can make a splendid pet. He is also adaptable to different living situations, and is capable of living in the city or in the countryside, just so long as his exercise needs are met.

He is such an affectionate and loyal, fun-loving dog while also being hard working, and all these wonderful characteristics mean that he can be a treasured pet and companion.

basset bleu de gascogne dog - characteristicsThis smooth-coated breed with his low-set ears, his sad eyes, out-turned paws and gentle but intelligent pet make this dog an awesome, companionable pet. He is loyal, affectionate and devoted. They’re good with children and other pets, and can even make superb pets for older- or frail people who may lead a more sedentary lifestyle.

The Basset Bleu also sheds a bit less than their Basset Hound counterparts, although they do tend to shed throughout the year. He will require training, just like any dog really, but you don’t want to be harsh with training, as he is a gentle, sensitive dog.

Laid back, this dog which has always been an excellent hunter in days gone by, will make anyone a devoted, loyal friend.

Health Problems

portuguese water dog puppies - health problemsPortuguese Water Dogs are generally healthy, but like most other dogs they are more prone to certain heath conditions, though your pet is unlikely to get any of them. Still it pays to know of some of the more complicated- and disabling ones.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is where the thighbone doesn't fit properly into the hip joint. Hip dysplasia spells pain for your dog and he may show lameness with one or both rear legs. Arthritis can develop too.

Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but it can be worsened by allowing your dog to become obese and from injuries from leaping off your bed for instance.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):

This is a degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness, but fortunately it is detectable long before the dog shows signs of blindness.

Reputable breeders have the eyes of their dog certified each year by a veterinary ophthalmologist and they don’t allow the dogs to produce puppies.

basset bleu de gascogne puppies - health problemsA great aspect with Basset Bleus is that they have very few health issues and are quite laid back. They can easily get to 14 years of age and older with good nutrition and exercise. Nothing is set in stone however, and every breed can suddenly develop health problems.

Dogs like this with a deep chest can be prone to a condition known as gastric dilatation volvulus or bloat. This is a condition not to be taken lightly as it can be life threatening. Gastric dilatation volvulus means twisted stomach because of excessive gas or flatulence and your dog will require prompt treatment.

Caring The Pet

portuguese water dog dogs - caringYour Portie is a dog that loves outdoor life and lots of exercise. Take him with you on your walks and give him a run off his leash. When he gets home, if you have a pool h’ll be the first to plunge right in. He makes a great pet to have at the sea too.

Provide him with plenty of nice chewy toys, balls and ropes so he doesn’t get bored.

Provide him with a nice, dry, warm sleeping area and don’t allow him to be disturbed when he retreats there.

Keep his vaccines up to date to prevent some life threatening illnesses.

Provide him with high quality food that has lots of vitamins and minerals instead of fillers, preservatives, colorants and toxins.

There are some excellent commercially manufactured dog foods which can be convenient and good for your pet. Try and provide him with some tasty homemade food occasionally. Nothing spicy and exotic. Dogs thrive on simplicity and consistency.

Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta, carrots, spinach and sweet potatoes chopped up and added twice week to the dry kibble is all your dog requires to keep him energetic happy, thankful, healthy and happy.

A little bit of raw meat added in from time to time will be superb. See that he always has access to clean, cool water.

Coat

basset bleu de gascogne dogs - caringWith his short coat, shedding isn’t a huge issue with the Basset Bleu. He sheds seasonally and then you will definitely have to brush him at least twice a week to get rid of all that loose hair.

Slobbering

Some dog owners don’t get used to the slobbering of these dogs. Certainly, you will need to change his drinking water often because of this slobbering of his. It can result in the water containing viruses and bacteria which can cause infections in your dog.

Exercise

These dogs tend to be lazy at home, so it will be up to you to see that he gets a good quota of exercise to prevent him becoming fat and prone to more illnesses. The backs, especially with added weight, can cause problems and this kind of dog shouldn’t be encouraged to jump off beds and couches.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Sakhalin Husky vs Portuguese Water Dog - Breed Comparison
  2. Portuguese Water Dog vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  3. Portuguese Water Dog vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  4. Portuguese Water Dog vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  5. Portuguese Water Dog vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  6. Portuguese Water Dog vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  7. Portuguese Water Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  8. Portuguese Water Dog vs Griffon Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  9. Portuguese Water Dog vs Borador - Breed Comparison
  10. Portuguese Water Dog vs German Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  11. Portuguese Water Dog vs Canadian Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  12. Portuguese Water Dog vs McNab - Breed Comparison
  13. Portuguese Water Dog vs Porcelaine - Breed Comparison
  14. Portuguese Water Dog vs Finnish Lapphund - Breed Comparison
  15. Portuguese Water Dog vs Berger Blanc Suisse - Breed Comparison
  16. Portuguese Water Dog vs Griffon Nivernais - Breed Comparison
  17. Portuguese Water Dog vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  18. Portuguese Water Dog vs Petit Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  19. Portuguese Water Dog vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  20. Portuguese Water Dog vs Griffon Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  21. Portuguese Water Dog vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Portuguese Water Dog vs Istrian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  23. Portuguese Water Dog vs Jamthund - Breed Comparison
  24. Portuguese Water Dog vs Karelian Bear Dog - Breed Comparison
  25. Portuguese Water Dog vs Karelo-Finnish Laika - Breed Comparison
  26. Basset Hound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  27. Pharaoh Hound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  28. Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  29. Hungarian Vizsla vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  30. Redbone Coonhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  31. Bluetick Coonhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  32. Norwegian Elkhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  33. Coonhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  34. Basset Fauve de Bretagne vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  35. Santal Hound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  36. Beagle-Harrier vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  37. English Coonhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  38. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Basenji - Breed Comparison
  39. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  40. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Bavarian Mountain Hound - Breed Comparison
  41. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie - Breed Comparison
  42. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Alpine Dachsbracke - Breed Comparison
  43. Podenco Canario vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  44. Dunker vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  45. Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  46. Chippiparai vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  47. Podenco Andaluz vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  48. Podenco Galego vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  49. English Foxhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  50. Estonian Hound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds