THE Portuguese Podengo is an ancient sight hound and scent hound breed of dog developed in Portugal for hunting. It is thought by some that the Phoenicians introduced it to the Mediterranean region where its potential as a hunter was recognised and developed. The Podengo comes in three sizes - small (Pequeno), medium (Medio) and large (Grande), each with two hair coats, smooth and rough coat.
The Pequeno is bred in a greater variety of colours than the larger types of the breed, possibly through outcrossing centuries ago with other breeds. Each has a different temperament but all three love to hunt. They will hunt in groups or as individuals, with the smaller ones hunting smaller game such as rabbits, hares, rats and mice, and the large type able to tackle deer or wild pigs.
The Podengo is a very healthy breed, and the smaller pequino has been known to live 20 years. Their average lifespan is 15-17 years. The larger types live 12-15 years. Both the rough coat and smooth coat types have only one layer of coat, so they do not shed much fur.
They make lovely companion dogs as they are obedient and friendly, attentive and loyal, good watchdogs and also good with children and other dogs. They love attention, and are very playful, intelligent and alert. And they are therefore very trainable.
In Portugal they are still bred as hunting dogs - still uncommon in USA and UK, their suitability as house pets is only now being realised and Pequeno numbers, especially of the rough coat variety, more than the larger types, are increasing all the time in both countries.
For more information on the Portuguese Podengo can be found on the club website www.podengos.org or email Mrs B Judge on plushcourt@hotmail.com to join the Portuguese Podengo Club of Great Britain. In USA the Portuguese Podengo Club of America (PPCA) can be found at http://www.podengos.com/.
