Overview
The Pampas Deerhound, or Veadeiro Pampeano, is a Brazilian hunting dog also found in Argentina and Uruguay. It was developed to track and catch pampas deer, and is still a favourite for hunting wild boar.
It is a different lineage from the National Deerhound, though the two names are alike.
History
Its origins are unclear. One theory is that it descends from primitive dogs such as the Podengo or Ibizan Hound brought by the Portuguese, and adapted over time with selective breeding by hunters. Another is that it is native to South America.
It was once called Veadeiro, Cervero or Bianchini. The Brazilian Confederation of Cynophilia recognised it in 2000, largely through the efforts of Carlos Lafaiete Seibert Bacelar. Breeders are now seeking FCI recognition and using microchips to build pedigrees.
Appearance
A medium-sized, long-legged dog with good muscle, slender without looking thin and built for speed. The tail is carried low, not longer than the hocks, and may carry a small fringe. The nose can be black, brown or liver, and the eyes greenish or hazel. The ears are pointed and folded back as rose ears, standing erect when alert.
The coat is short, straight, dense and rough, with no undercoat and no odour. Colours range from leonine fawn to light fawn and white, often with white marks on the neck, chest and legs.
Temperament
On the hunt it is persistent, undaunted by obstacles and an excellent scenter, using different calls on the trail, when it loses it, and when close to prey. It can work alone, in pairs or in packs.
At home it is calm, docile and very attached to its owner. It is patient with active children and will bark to alert its family to strangers.
Care and exercise
A hunting dog from open country, it needs a lot of daily running and activity and a secure fence. Its short coat needs little more than occasional brushing.
It thrives with plenty of human company and an outlet for its tracking instincts.
