Overview
The Podenco Canario is a lightly built warren hound found on all the Canary Islands. It hunts mainly rabbit, but may also work on other small or larger game.
It resembles other Mediterranean warren hounds such as the Ibizan Hound and the Cirneco dell'Etna, and genetic work places it close to the other Spanish podencos.
History
Legend says the dogs descend from ancient hounds brought from North Africa by the first settlers and kept isolated on the islands. Recent genetic studies, however, show it to be no more primitive than other European hunting breeds.
The FCI accepted the breed in 1987, and Spanish legislation recognised it in 2001. The national kennel club also lists it among Spanish breeds considered vulnerable.
Appearance
This is a slender, sturdy and very agile hound, slightly elongated and muscular. The head is longer than wide, the neck long and the large ears stand fully erect. Two sizes exist: a medium one of about 55 to 64 cm at the withers, and a smaller island type of roughly 30 to 40 cm.
The short, dense coat is red, white or a mix of the two. Nose, nails and skin are also reddish, and the nose can visibly blush with excitement.
Temperament
Podencos are lively, intelligent and devoted to their people, with a strong hunting drive that appears from about three months and matures slowly. While chasing, they give a staccato, repeated bark that hunters call the song of the rabbit.
They are best with an owner who understands sighthound and scenthound instincts.
Care and exercise
This breed needs plenty of daily exercise and chances to run in a safe, fenced area, as its prey drive is strong. Mental work and games help channel its energy.
The short coat is easy to care for with occasional brushing. Fences should be high and secure, since these athletic dogs can jump well.
Health
The breed is generally healthy. A single case of an XX sex reversal disorder has been reported, but it is not known to be a common problem.
