Bearded Collie vs Portuguese Water Dog
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
Bearded Collie
Also known as: Beardie, Highland Collie, Mountain Collie
The Bearded Collie, often affectionately known as the "Beardie," is a lively and intelligent herding dog renowned for its shaggy double coat and charismatic personality. Originally bred in Scotland for herding sheep and cattle, this friendly and energetic breed makes a devoted family companion. Weighing 20-25 kg, these bouncing bundles of energy require significant exercise and grooming commitment.
Medium
High
12-14 yrs
51-56 cm
20-25 kg
Portuguese Water Dog
Also known as: PWD, Portie, Cão de Água Português, Obama Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog (PWD) is a highly energetic and intelligent breed known for its curly, hypoallergenic coat and exceptional swimming abilities. Originally bred to work alongside Portuguese fishermen—herding fish into nets, retrieving lost tackle, and swimming messages between boats—they are devoted 'Velcro dogs' who bond intensely with their families.
Medium
High
11-14 yrs
43-57 cm
16-27 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Energy Level | High | High |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | Easy |
| Barking Level | High | Medium |
| Shedding Level | High | Low |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Moderate |
| Housing | Yard | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Active individual or family with time for 90+ minutes of daily exercise and daily grooming. Works from home or can provide companionship throughout the day. Tolerant of barking, shedding, and mud. Has experience with positive reinforcement training. | Active individual or family willing to hire professional groomer. Works from home or can provide midday activity. Has access to swimming opportunities. Tolerant of a shadow dog that demands interaction. |
Bearded Collie Dealbreakers
- Work long hours away from home
- Cannot afford $100/month for grooming
- Have noise-sensitive neighbors
- Want a dog that obeys commands instantly
- Value a pristine floor - they bring the outside in
Portuguese Water Dog Dealbreakers
- Sedentary lifestyle - if you hate walking/swimming, this dog becomes neurotic and destructive
- Budget constraints - if $100/month for grooming is a hardship
- Long work hours - if everyone is gone 9-5 without dog walker or daycare
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Grooming failure - owners underestimate coat care, dog gets matted, owner feels overwhelmed, Excessive barking and high energy in a home that expected a calm 'Lassie' dog | Grooming & Energy - owners underestimate coat maintenance leading to severe matting, Mouthiness in puppyhood surprises and overwhelms owners, Sheer amount of interaction the dog demands |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | Medium |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Medium | High |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
Bearded Collie Social Traits
Low
Generally dog social - prefers running/chasing play, may annoy more serious breeds by lacking personal space boundaries and pawing to initiate play
Portuguese Water Dog Social Traits
Medium
Generally friendly with proper socialization
Training
Bearded Collie
- Keep training sessions short, varied, and fun
- Harsh methods cause this sensitive breed to shut down or become anxious
- Make it worth their while - they need engagement and fun to work
- Early socialization and positive reinforcement are critical
Portuguese Water Dog
- Use high-value treats and toys - 'Because it pays well' works better than 'Because I said so'
- Keep sessions varied and engaging - they get bored with repetition
- Channel mouthiness into retrieving games and teaching them to carry objects
Bearded Collie Considerations
Beardies are vocal dogs that bark to alert, demand attention, express excitement, and when bored. The 'Beardie bark' is sharp and persistent, making them unsuitable for apartments or noise-sensitive neighbors.
This breed jumps straight up in the air to greet people. While charming in puppies, a 50lb muddy dog launching at face level is a liability for elderly relatives or small children. They struggle to settle when over-aroused.
Many Beardies are highly sensitive to loud noises like thunder, fireworks, and trucks. This can manifest as severe anxiety, pacing, and destructive behavior.
They possess an arrested predatory sequence and may nip at heels or chase running children and bicycles. This is hardwired behavior to control movement, not aggression.
Unless you are a skilled home groomer, expect to pay $100-150 every 6-8 weeks. Neglecting this leads to severe matting requiring a 'shave down' that ruins the double coat.
Portuguese Water Dog Considerations
PWDs were bred to work on small fishing boats alongside their masters all day. They follow you into the bathroom and may develop severe separation anxiety if left alone 8+ hours. Prone to demand barking and whining if ignored.
As a retriever breed, they interact with the world through their mouths. PWD puppies are notoriously 'nippy' and oral—this is not aggression but can be painful and frightening for young children.
This breed is famous for dancing on hind legs and jumping up to greet faces. While charming to some, it's a significant fall risk for elderly owners or small children.
Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks at $100-150 is mandatory, not optional. Neglecting this leads to severe matting that damages skin and requires shave-down.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Can live peacefully with confident indoor cats if raised together, but will chase cats that run | Generally safe if socialized - may chase running animals but usually stop when animal stops |
| Small Mammals | Generally safe with supervision - may harass guinea pigs or chickens by trying to herd them | Caution - may try to chase and retrieve |
| Birds / Reptiles | Caution - herding instincts may trigger harassment | Not a livestock guardian - may try to herd or play with stock |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Arrested |
| Biddability | Medium | High |
| Noise Sensitivity | High | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | N/A |
Bearded Collie: Predatory sequence: Orient -> Eye -> Stalk -> Chase. The 'Grab-Bite' and 'Kill-Bite' are inhibited. Safe with family cat if socialized. Smart enough to learn anything but ask 'What's in it for me?' - not push-button dogs.
Portuguese Water Dog: Predatory sequence: Orient -> Eye -> Stalk -> Chase -> Grab-Bite. The Kill-Bite and Dissect phases are inhibited. This makes them generally safe with other dogs and often cats, though they may annoy them.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 6-18 |
| House Training | Medium | Moderate |
| Crate Training | Medium | High |
| Adolescent Regression |
Bearded Collie: The 'puppy coat blow' between 9-18 months is grueling - soft puppy coat transitions to harsh adult coat, mats form overnight. Many owners give up and shave the dog during this phase. They are mouthy herders and will nip heels.
Portuguese Water Dog: PWD puppies are 'land sharks' - their retrieving instinct manifests as severe nipping and mouthing. Combined with high intelligence and energy, they require more management than a Golden Retriever (6/10) but less than a Malinois (9/10).
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 18 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 12-36 |
| Adult Years | 2-10 | 3-9 |
| Senior Onset | ~10 years | ~9 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-4 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 51-56 cm | 43-57 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Medium | Medium |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years | 11–14 years |
| Litter Size | 5-8 | 4-8 |
Bearded Collie Coat
Portuguese Water Dog Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Herding sheep and cattle over rough Scottish terrain using voice and physical presence | Fishing crew member - herding fish into nets, swimming messages between boats, retrieving broken nets and tackle |
| Origin | Scottish Highlands, one of Britain's oldest herding breeds | Portugal, coastal regions, centuries-old heritage |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | Low |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Medium | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Medium | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 1.5m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Low | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Bearded Collie Health Issues
Portuguese Water Dog Health Issues
Bearded Collie Suggested Tests
- ACTH stimulation tests
- Genetic testing for CEA
- Genetic testing for MDR1
- OFA/PennHIP scores for hips
- OFA Thyroid certification
Portuguese Water Dog Suggested Tests
- prcd-PRA DNA test
- EOPRA DNA test
- JDCM DNA test
- GM-1 DNA test
- OFA Hip Evaluations (or PennHIP)
- Annual Eye Exams (CAER)
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Medium |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Low | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | High | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Moderate |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Medium | Medium |
| Anal Gland Issues | Rare | Rare |
Senior Care & Aging
Bearded Collie Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Cognitive decline/sundowning
- Anxiety in old age
Generally healthy until the end with a sharp decline. Ramps may be needed for cars. 12-14 years is typical lifespan.
Portuguese Water Dog Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Cataracts/PRA progression
- Addison's Disease (can appear at any age)
- Hip dysplasia complications
Slow down significantly around 9+. Watch for clouding eyes (cataracts/PRA) and stiffness (arthritis).
Grooming & Care
Bearded Collie
high maintenancePortuguese Water Dog
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Bearded Collie Daily Life
Portuguese Water Dog Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | 25-50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Medium | Extreme |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Excellent |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Medium |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | High |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Medium |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,500-2,500 | $2,500-4,500 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,500–$2,500 | $2,500–$4,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $180–$280 | $150–$300 |
| Yearly Range | $2,500–$3,500 | $2,500–$3,500 |
| Food / Month | $60-90 | $60-90 |
| Insurance / Month | $50-80 | $50-80 |
| Grooming / Session | $100-150 | $100-150 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $500-1,200 | $400-1,000 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Bearded Collie Lifetime Cost
$30,000-50,000
Portuguese Water Dog Lifetime Cost
$30,000-50,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Bearded Collie | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Rare |
| Slobber Level | None | None |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | None |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Daily |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Low | Low |
Bearded Collie Quirks
The Beardie Lean
They are tactile dogs that will lean their entire weight against your legs as affection
The Beardie Bounce
Famous for jumping straight up in the air to greet people - charming but can be a liability
Mud & Mess Magnet
They bring the outside in - leaves, burrs, mud, and snowballs stick to their leg furnishings and beard
The Wet Dog Factor
A wet Beardie takes hours to dry, and the smell of wet wool is a permanent fixture in winter
Portuguese Water Dog Quirks
Counter Surfing Ninjas
Their intelligence and food motivation make them expert kitchen thieves - they can steal food with impressive stealth
The Portie Greeting
Famous for dancing on hind legs and jumping up to greet faces - can be a fall risk for elderly or children
The Talker
They 'talk' with grumbles, moans, and varied barks as common ways to communicate their needs
Water Obsession
Most will dive into any body of water including mud puddles and swimming pools
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn your dog into a brand deal.
Pet brands are looking for authentic creators — not celebrities. If you own a Bearded Collie or Portuguese Water Dog, you can get free products, gear, and exclusive perks just for sharing your dog's life on Instagram.
No followers minimum · Free to join
Compare with Other Breeds
Compare Bearded Collie with:
Compare Portuguese Water Dog with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.
View Bearded Collie profile·View Portuguese Water Dog profile