Portuguese Podengo: Energetic and Loyal Companion

The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a small hunting dog that originates from Portugal. This breed is loved for its high energy, intelligence, and loyalty. This breed can make a great addition to any family with proper training.  

Overview of the Portuguese Podengo 

  The Portuguese Podengo is an ancient breed from Portugal. It comes in two coat varieties: the smooth and wire-haired coat.

The Portuguese Podengo size includes three options: small (Pequeno) 8-12 inches, (9 to 13 lbs; medium (Medio0) 16-22 inches, 35 to 44 lbs; and large (Grande) 22-28 inches, 44 to 66 lbs.

The parents’ size does not always determine the size of their offspring. A pair of Grande may have Medio-size puppies and vice versa.

This breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. The Podengo has an average life expectancy of 10-15 years.

Their head is wedge-shaped with dark eyes, large ears, a short muzzle, and a strong jawline. They are also very active canines who need plenty of mental stimulation and exercise to stay healthy and happy.

This breed’s coat can come in many colors, including black & tan, brown & white, red & white, or fawn & white. Their tail is usually docked, but if left natural, it will stand erect when alert or curl over their back when relaxed.  

They may become destructive in the home or dig holes in the yard if not adequately exercised. They respond well to positive reinforcement training that involves many treats and praises. With consistency, patience, and love, you’ll have a well-behaved puppy who loves being with family members.

History and Origin of the Breed

The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a rare small hound breed originating in Portugal, where they were bred to hunt rabbits. This breed has been around for centuries and was previously known as the Warren Hound.

Over time, it developed into its distinct breed, featuring various coat colors and sizes. They are believed to have descended from the ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Hound and other primitive hunting breeds across Europe.

Despite being relatively unknown outside of their native Portugal, the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno has recently gained popularity in many countries worldwide due to their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature.

Here are some characteristics of the breed:

• They have an independent streak which makes them great hunters
• Their compact size allows them to fit into small living spaces easily
• They are highly intelligent and learn quickly
• They love to be active and require strenuous exercise daily
• They form strong bonds with their owners and make loyal companions

These charming little hounds may not have made headlines until recently. Still, their unique history makes them so special today – much loved by their owners for providing unconditional love while offering protection if needed. They are usually content at home if they remain mentally stimulated with walks, activities, or toys.

The AKC parent club for this breed is American Portuguese Podengo Medio Grande Club.

Portuguese Podengo Temperament

The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a small, loyal hound that loves to play and explore, making it the perfect companion for an active family. This breed is ancient, and its origins can be traced back to Portugal during the 12th century.

Portuguese Podengo colors includes several colors, including black and tan, chestnut, brindle, white or parti-colored. The ears are long and naturally erect, while the tail may be left long or docked short. The average height of a mature dog ranges from 9 – 12 inches at the shoulder, and weighs approximately 10 pounds.

This breed is known for being independent yet affectionate towards its owners. They are energetic dogs who love taking long walks with their humans and romping around the yard or park. They make excellent watchdogs due to their alertness and amiable nature when familiar with people.

Training should start early for this breed to prevent any unwanted behaviors from developing over time — positive reinforcement methods work best for them because they respond better when praised rather than scolded harshly for mistakes made during training sessions.

Care and Grooming Requirements

Caring for your Portuguese Podengo Pequeno requires regular grooming and exercise, so you must set aside time each week to ensure your pup stays healthy and happy.

Brushing their short coat once or twice a week is recommended, as it will help remove dead hair and spread natural oils throughout the skin. Additionally, trimming their nails every other month can help prevent overgrowth and discomfort while running or playing.

The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno may also require occasional bathing to keep their fur clean and free from dirt and debris. Be sure to use a gentle shampoo specifically designed for dogs so that it doesn’t damage their sensitive skin.

Additionally, brushing your pup’s teeth at least twice weekly will help reduce plaque buildup, which can lead to tooth decay and other health problems in the future.

Taking your Portuguese Podengo Pequeno on an annual vet trip is essential to keep them healthy. During these visits, the vet will check for common medical issues like parasites or ear infections; they can also provide vaccinations if necessary. Regular check-ups are essential in helping diagnose any potential health problems early on before they become severe issues down the line.

Common Health Concerns

Although they’re generally healthy, Portuguese Podengo Pequenos may be prone to specific health issues that owners should watch out for.

One such issue is Legg-Calve-Perthes syndrome (LCP), which affects the hip joint and can cause lameness in one or both hind legs.

Other potential health issues include heart murmurs, luxating patella, and allergies. Podengo Pequeno owners must monitor their pets closely for signs of discomfort or distress that could signal an underlying health issue.

While these dogs can sometimes develop more severe ailments, proper care and regular vet visits can help keep them healthy and happy.

Good nutrition is vital in keeping your Podengo Pequeno solid and fit; ensure they receive quality food formulated specifically for small breeds like them. As with most breeds, exercise is also essential; daily walks will help your pup stay active while providing mental stimulation.

Additionally, check your pet’s ears weekly for wax buildup or signs of infection; immediately take them to the vet if you notice anything unusual. Nail trimming should also be done regularly.

Finally, it’s recommended that all Podengos get tested annually by their veterinarian to catch any developing medical conditions early before they become serious problems.

Conclusion

This breed isn’t for everyone due to its high energy levels and independence. However, if you’re looking for a loyal, spirited companion with an undeniable zest for life, the Podengo Pequeno might be the perfect fit1