1 of 1

Write now Article Tools

The Portugese Podengo has many variations that are reflected in the name by adding a word at the beginning or at the end of the name. The words that can be added to the beginning are descriptive of its coat and they are either "wire haired" or "smooth". Those that can be added to the end reflect the size variations of the breed. They come in either "grande" meaning large, "medio" meaning medium, or "pequeno" meaning small. They are also referred to as the Portugese Hound or the Portugese Rabbit Dog, still with the variables added to the name.

The Portugese Podengo is a breed that is a popular hound in the rural portions of Northern Portugal. Although the Grande and the Pequeno variations are not nearly as popular, the Medio is quite prolific in the region. It is thought the breed has its roots in the Iberian Wolf as well as the Pharoah Hound. This dog was originally bred for use as a hunting dog, primarily used for hunting small game. They are also used as ratting dogs, guard dogs, and are kept as family pets and companion dogs in many homes.

This breed is not yet eligible for registry with the American Kennel Club, but there are other registries that do accept the Portugese Podengo for registry. These are the PPCA, the CKC, the FCI, the UKC, the NKC, the APRI, the ACR, and the DRA. They are classified in the "Southern" category of dogs. While this may hold little importance to the hunter or average family, registry is important for the breeder or those who are interested in competing with the dogs. It will give the dog far greater value in these instances.

According to breed standards, the Portugese Podengo should be between 8 and 27 inches tall, when measured to the withers, depending on the size variation. Weight can be between 9 and 66 pounds, again depending on the size category that the particular dog falls into. The triangular-shaped ears are held in the upright position and are quite large for the head and body. The small eyes are a honey brown color. The nose is dark, either brown or black, and the muzzle is straight. The tail is tapered, being thick at the base and getting thinner towards the tip, and hangs down when the dog is at rest. When the dog becomes interested in something or is moving, the tail is carried horizontally.

The acceptable colors for the fur of the Portugese Podengo are black, fawn, or yellow and may have white markings. This breed comes in both wire or rough-coated and smooth-coated. The fur on the smooth coat is typically shorter

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Dog breed facts: Portuguese Podengo?
We want to hear your view. Write now!