Pyrenean Shepherd vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison

Pyrenean Shepherd vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed ComparisonPyrenean Shepherd is originated from Spain but Portuguese Pointer is originated from Portugal. Pyrenean Shepherd may grow 10 cm / 3 inches shorter than Portuguese Pointer. Pyrenean Shepherd may weigh 7 kg / 15 pounds lesser than Portuguese Pointer. Both Pyrenean Shepherd and Portuguese Pointer has almost same life span. Pyrenean Shepherd may have less litter size than Portuguese Pointer. Pyrenean Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance. But Portuguese Pointer requires Low maintenance

History

pyrenean shepherd - historyThe Pyrenean Shepherd hails from Spain where he has always been used to herd sheep. Some people believe he is a descendant of the French Catalan Sheepdog while others say from the Briard. Nobody is too sure.

He is actually the smallest of the French herding breeds. It is interesting to note that he still does this herding job today. It was in the 19th century that a few of these dogs left for America with shepherds who found work herding flocks in the American West.

These dogs were also used in World War 1 as messenger dogs.

It was during the 1970's and 1980's that breeding programs were started for the dog and The Pyrenean Shepherd Club of America was formed in 1987. The dog was also recognized in 2009 by the American Kennel Club.

portuguese pointer - historyThe Portuguese Pointer comes from Portugal where the dog was developed as a gun dog. It is believed that the dog is descended from the Spanish Pointer and developed to point out game.

The dog was was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1996.

The dog was introduced to England in the 18th century and the modern type of the Portuguese Pointer became established in the early 1900’s when the breed had become endangered. A group of breeders re-established its numbers.

Today it is both working- and companion dog. The UK Kennel Club recognised it as a breed in 2014.

Description

pyrenean shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Pyrenean Shepherd is a medium-sized dog standing at between 38 and 50cm in height and weighing between 14 and 20kg.

His head is fairly small with large, bright, expressive eyes. The ears are semi-erect. The tail has always traditionally been docked but often left long these days.

He comes with two different coat types – rough and smooth with sometimes both types being in the same litter. The dog is a regular shedder. The coat can be medium length or long and slightly wavy with a harsh texture. The coat can be of the shorter type with finer, softer hair. The coat is available in different colors and patterns, and can be a fawn color or grey and you will find a black overlay occasionally with some white. The coat can be tri-colored or he can be in solid colors such as cream or white.

Temperament:

Your feisty Pyrenean Shepherd is a dog with plenty of personality. He is also full of energy and will love to live with a outdoorsy-type family who are always on the go, because he’s in on everything.

He is distrustful of strangers and this together with the fact that he is so alert, makes him a splendid watchdog too.

He will need to be trained and socialized as he can be overly robust. He becomes obedient and well mannered, being totally dedicated to his owner. It isn’t easy for him to be separated from his beloved human owner.

portuguese pointer puppy - descriptionOriginating from Portugal, the attractive, almost Boxer-like looking dog is a medium sized purebred dog that stands at between 48 and 60cm in height and weighs roughly 16 to 27kg.

The Portuguese Pointer has a coat that is light brown, tan or yellow. The dog has a short, easy to maintain coat. He has a fairly square face, much like the Boxer, floppy ears with a long tail. The tail is usually docked. The eyes are brown and he a bright, alert, kind expression.

Temperament:

The Portuguese Pointer is a dog with strong hunting instincts, but who still has time to make a splendid companion for his human family. He is gentle and loyal to his human family, being somewhat reserved with strangers. This is a good thing really as this makes him a good watchdog.

He is good with other pets in the home as well as with children. He badly wants to please his family, and because he is intelligent and a fast learner, you won’t have any trouble with training and socialization.

He is a sociable dog, loving to be close to its owner. He is active and will require quite a bit of exercise, loving to join in with games with the children. He gets on well with children in the home as well as with animals.

Characteristics

pyrenean shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Pyrenean Shepherd is essentially a one-person dog, becoming totally attached to one particular person in the family.

He is known as a dog who becomes totally loyal to his human family, getting on well with children as well as with other pets in the home.

He is aloof and wary of strangers. Training and socialization is important so as to avoid aggression and fear. This is one dog that requires being diligently exercised every day.

He is a great watchdog, and when you add up all his fantastic qualities, you get to realize what a splendid companion and pet this wonderful dog makes.

portuguese pointer dog - characteristicsThe gorgeous Portuguese Pointer makes such a loyal and loving pet. He is always looking out for his human family, making sure that they are safe and protected under his watch.

He is an excellent watch dog too, proudly running around outside and making sure that there are no intruders around. They are good with kids too if the kids are gentle and kind with animals.

He loves a good game too and is always ready to take part in any activities you’re taking part in. The Portuguese Pointer is truly an awesome pet and companion.

Health Problems

pyrenean shepherd puppies - health problemsThe Pyrenean Shepherd is such a jovial little dog that you just can’t imagine him ever being sick. When he is lethargic, you'll know there is something seriously wrong with him because he is always as bright as a button.

He can however get sick, and there are a few dog illnesses such as epilepsy, eye problems and hip dysplasia that can be very painful ad debilitating for such an energetic dog. You don’t have to be too concerned though, as he is a dog known to have minimal health issues.

portuguese pointer puppies - health problemsYour robust Portuguese Pointer isn’t known to be a dog to suffer with too many breed related health problems. With good care he can reach 14 years of age.Portuguese Pointers are a healthy breed, but some health issues can crop up -

Cancer:

Cancer is a leading cause of death in dogs young and old. Luckily, if caught early, cancer is curable. Some of the cancers found in dogs are malignant lymphoma – a tumor of the lymph nodes.

Skin cancer is also fairly common. The warning signs of cancer in dogs can be a new lump or a wound that won’t heal. While these are classic signs, sometimes there are no signs. If your dog isn’t feeling well, it’s time to get him to the veterinarian.

Liver Disease:

The liver is one of the vital body organs but it is susceptible to a wide variety of problems. It detoxifies the blood, stores vitamins and assists with digestion among other things.

One of the most common symptoms of liver disease is jaundice. When the liver isn’t functioning properly, bilirubin builds up in the blood and leads to the yellowish appearance of the dog.

Other common symptoms of liver disease include vomiting, weight loss and diarrhea. Veterinary attention will be required.

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

pyrenean shepherd dogs - caringThis will depend on the coat type. Both coat types will essentially require you brushing him twice a week.

Exercise:

The Pyr Shep’s activity levels are very high and this dog will require living with people who love outdoor activities. He’s the perfect companion for those camping trips or hikes. He is always ready to join you on your walks and will be ready and waiting to jump right in when he sees you with a ball or frisbee.

Diet:

For all that energy, your Pyrenean Shepherd will be needing the best dog food there is. Food full of preservatives and colorants can be bad for your pet, detrimental to his health.

Good food full of vitamins and minerals will ensure your pet stands a good chance of living a long, healthy life. If you feed him commercially manufactured dog food, ensure its the best there is, with labeling on the packaging that tells you its for his age, his size and energy levels.

Consistency and simplicity is what your Pyrenean Shepherd wants, and home-made food can enhance his dry kibble. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots all chopped up and mixed into the dry kibble once or twice a week will ensure your pet’s eyes are continuously bright and alert and his tail constantly wagging.

Some raw meat added in occasionally will also go towards ensuring his good health. Always make sure he has access to fresh, cool water.

Exercise:

portuguese pointer dogs - caringThe Portuguese Pointer has been a working dog and doesn’t enjoy lying around with nothing to do. Apart from a walk every day which he loves, he’ll want other activities that stimulate him mentally and physically.

Grooming:

His short coat means that he won’t require any special grooming. He does shed constantly, like many other dogs, and a good brush twice a week will keep his short coat vibrant and shiny.

Diet:

Your canine friend will require protein in his diet as well as all the vitamins ad minerals for health. The very best commercially manufactured dog foods will be required for his health.

The dry kibble can be a wonderful convenient way to feed your pet. The best commercial foods meet the requirements for a dog’s diet. Give him some delicious home made food too. Boiled chicken, brown rice, sweet potatoes, carrots and spinach can be cooked in bulk and then chopped up and small portions mixed into the dry kibble twice a week as a treat.

It provides your pet with an alternative to the dry kibble, it is healthy, easy to digest and your pet will love it. Dogs thrive on simple consistency. Once in a while you can also give him some raw meat. Never leave him without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Gun dog
Origin:
Spain
Portugal
Height Male:
38 - 50 cm
14 - 20 inches
48 - 60 cm
18 - 24 inches
Height Female:
38 - 50 cm
14 - 20 inches
48 - 60 cm
18 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
16 - 27 kg
35 - 60 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
16 - 27 kg
35 - 60 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 15 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 4
5 - 8
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Pyr Shep
Portuguese Pointing Dog
Colors Available:
grey, black overlay occasionally, Fawn, some white - solid colors or tri-colored
fawnish - some white, Tan
Coat:
Long or short haired - soft or wiry
Short and smooth
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  2. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  4. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  6. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Collie - Breed Comparison
  7. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  8. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Dutch Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  10. Pyrenean Shepherd vs English Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  12. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Catahoula Cur - Breed Comparison
  13. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  14. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  15. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  16. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  17. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Appenzell Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  18. Pyrenean Shepherd vs German Coolie - Breed Comparison
  19. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Bohemian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  21. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  22. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  23. Pyrenean Shepherd vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  24. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Norwegian Buhund - Breed Comparison
  25. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Polish Lowland Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  26. Portuguese Pointer vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  27. Portuguese Pointer vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  28. Portuguese Pointer vs Irish Setter - Breed Comparison
  29. Portuguese Pointer vs Bracco Italiano - Breed Comparison
  30. Portuguese Pointer vs Perdiguero de Burgos - Breed Comparison
  31. Portuguese Pointer vs Irish Red and White Setter - Breed Comparison
  32. Portuguese Pointer vs Pachon Navarro - Breed Comparison
  33. Portuguese Pointer vs Grand Gascon Saintongeois - Breed Comparison
  34. Portuguese Pointer vs Longhaired Weimaraner - Breed Comparison
  35. Portuguese Pointer vs Braque Francais (Gascogne Type) - Breed Comparison
  36. Slovakian Rough Haired Pointer vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  37. Slovensky Hrubosrsty Stavac vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Smooth Haired Weimaraner vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  39. Spanish Pointer vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  40. Spinone Italiano vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  41. Talbot vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  42. Vikhan Sheepdog vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  43. Weimaraner vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  44. Samoyed vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  45. Presa Canario vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  46. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  47. Saluki vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  48. Rough Collie vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  49. Rajapalayam vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison
  50. Schnauzerdor vs Portuguese Pointer - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds