Overview
The Podenco Andaluz is a traditional hunting dog of southern Spain. It is lively, affectionate with its family and a little reserved with strangers, and it hunts with sharp senses and a methodical style.
There are small, medium and large dogs, with smooth, wire-haired or long-haired coats, which gives nine varieties within one breed.
History
The history of the breed is poorly documented. It has long worked as a warren hound in Andalusia, where variation in size and coat probably grew from local climates and the kinds of game hunted.
The Spanish kennel club recognised it in 1992 and the national standard was published in 2001. The FCI does not recognise it. It is closely related genetically to the Galgo Español and is now considered a vulnerable Spanish breed.
Appearance
The breed is light, athletic and well suited to speed and endurance. Large, medium and small sizes exist, and the coat may be smooth, wire-haired (cerdeño) or long-haired (sedeño). Colours run from white to deep red.
Owners notice that its trot is almost as fast as its gallop.
Temperament
These are lively, affectionate dogs that bond closely with their people and may be wary with strangers. They are keen and persistent hunters with excellent sight, hearing and nose, and they work well alone, in pairs or in packs.
Care and exercise
Podencos need plenty of daily exercise and safe places to run, as the urge to chase is strong. They do best with an active household and a secure garden. Grooming is easy for smooth coats and a little more involved for wire and long coats.
