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Portuguese podengu

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History of the Portuguese Podengu breed

Origin: Portugal

The breed is older than written stud books, so its ancestors are not known for sure. Possibly descended from similar hunting dogs around the Mediterranean that hunted small game and accompanied people. The large variety is extremely rare even in Portugal, the medium is rare. In the FCI classification, it belongs to group 5.

The Portuguese Podengu is the national breed of Portugal in three sizes: small (20-30 cm), medium (40-54 cm) and large (55-70 cm), with smooth or hard coat. Lively, fast, agile and very devoted to his family. Needs daily movement and reliable fencing.

SizeMala
OriginPortugal
Portuguese podengu

Life is nearby

Suitable for families with a private house and a fenced yard. A small variety is easier to keep in the city, but it also needs walks and games.

Walks

High: Brisk walks, runs and games every day.

Training

Smart and lively, studies well, but the hunting instinct is strong. Classes are varied, with rewards. Suitable for agility, obedience, sniffing and bait fishing.

Care

The wool is combed once or twice a week. They are bathed infrequently, about once every three to four months, to preserve natural oils. Claws are trimmed, teeth are cleaned.

Children

Dogs that are not familiar with children from an early age may not tolerate them. Contacts under supervision.

Other animals

The hunting instinct is strong: small animals are prey. Acquaintances with other dogs and animals take place gradually.

Peculiarities of the breed

Estimates help compare breeds. For zooaggression, 5/5 means less tendency to aggression towards dogs. The behavior and health of a particular dog depend on many factors.

Human orientation

5/5

Very high score: devoted and attached to the family. Behavior depends on upbringing.

Training

3/5

Medium-High Rating: Clever, but hunting instinct gets in the way.

Zooaggression

5/5

Average score: small animals - prey.

Health and reproductive risks

3/5

There is no comparable survival estimate for the breed in the British cohort used. Among the described breed risks: disorders of the thyroid gland, hearing disorders, allergic skin diseases; examination of the parents is confirmed with the veterinarian.

Ease of care

3,5/5

High score: wool is easy.

Health

Dysfunction of the thyroid gland

Dysfunction of the thyroid gland: hormones are checked for inactivity, weight gain, and skin problems.

Hearing impairment

Hearing impairment: congenital deafness is confirmed by a puppy hearing test.

Allergic skin diseases

Allergic skin diseases: itching, redness and baldness require a veterinary examination. There is little data on reproductive risks outside of Portugal.

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