
There is a certain difference in temperament between these two types – the wire-haired Podengos are gentler and more affectionate, while smooth-haired Podengos are more stubborn and independent. They are equally easy to groom, but the wire-haired dogs have beards, which need cleaning from time to time. Smooth-haired dogs are more resistant to cold weather. Both types are suited to warm climates and have no undercoats. Sometimes, Podengo was often referred to as a “dog that hunt the rabbits”.Ġ2.) There are two types of Podengo dogs depending on their coats – wire-haired (feathery, medium-length coat similar to a Fox Terrier) and smooth-haired (dense, short-length coat similar to a Greyhound). The Podengo is in fact a shortened version of a medieval phrase Podengo de Mostra, which was a term for pack-hunting dogs. Now, let’s take a look at ten most interesting Portuguese Podengo facts.Ġ1.) Podengo Português is often translated as a Portuguese Hound, but the truth is in Portuguese language there is no actual word for hound.

Positive reinforcement techniques are recommended in this case. When working with these dogs, one has to be firm and confident, but calm and careful. Luckily, Portuguese Podengos are relatively easy to socialize and train, but only in the hands of a dominant and experienced owner.

Early socialization is particularly important for a Podengo Grande. They are generally good family companions, but only if they undergo early socialization. In their native country, Podengos are primarily used to hunt rabbits. In general, these are all pack-hunting dogs, but can as well hunt singly. They do not only differentiate by their size, but temperament and working habits to some degree. There are three varieties of Podengos – Podengo Pequeno ( small), Podengo Medio ( medium) and Podengo Grande ( large). This is a primitive type Sighhound best known for its excellent hunting skills. The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.The Portuguese Podengo is the National breed of Portugal. Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. As long as they are adequately entertained they make fun, friendly pets and require little in the way of grooming.Įach AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. Endurance is one of their star qualities so lots of exercise should be on the agenda. They have hunting dog determination combined with a lively intellect so tend to do well in obedience, agility, rally, and other canine sports.

Their small size allowed them passage into dense thickets and their harsh, wiry coats protected them from briars and other prickly hazards. They were bred to hunt small game in rugged terrain. The “Pequeno” is a primitive breed descended from ancient hounds brought to the Iberian Peninsula by the Phoenicians as far back as 1000 BC! They share ancestry with the Pharaoh Hound, Ibizan Hound, Cirneco dell’Etna, and Basenji.
