Overview
The Portuguese Podengo is a hound of warren-hunting type. It is bred in three sizes that are not interbred: pequeno, médio and grande.
The coat is either short and smooth or longer and wiry. The smooth coat is the traditional one, while the wire coat came from absorbing other breeds in the twentieth century.
History
In the Middle Ages, Portuguese hunting dogs were known collectively as Podengos de Mostra. Dogs of this kind were also used to kill rats on Portuguese caravels at sea.
The Podengo began to be treated as one breed in the early twentieth century, and the standard for the large variety dates from 1953.
Appearance
The large stands 55 to 70 cm and weighs 20 to 30 kg. The medium stands 40 to 54 cm and weighs 16 to 20 kg. The small stands 20 to 30 cm and weighs 4 to 6 kg.
Coats may be smooth or wire-haired in each size.
Temperament
The Podengo has a strong affinity for game whatever its size, and is keen, quick and alert. With its family it is typically lively and loyal, though its hunting drive is strong.
Care and exercise
Podengos need regular exercise and secure fencing, since the chase instinct is strong. Grooming is easy, with occasional brushing for the smooth coat and a little more for the wire coat. Needs scale with size.
