The Podengo Português is an ancient dog breed whose ancestors were introduced to the Iberian Peninsula by the Phoenicians and Romans. Over the centuries, it has perfectly adapted to local characteristics. This dog was developed in the 15th century for Portuguese sailors looking for a portable hunting dog, with the small size variety that is now one of the most appreciated.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Iberian Peninsula (Portugal)
- Type: Hunting dog
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 16-20 kg
- Female: 16-20 kg
- Height:
- Male: 40-55 cm
- Female: 40-55 cm
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
- Exercise needs: 2 to 3 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Prefer a house with a fenced garden)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Calm: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆ (Good with children, but needs supervision)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (May be a bit reserved with other animals)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Reserved with strangers)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (A fenced yard is preferable)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Depending on coat type)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Fairly affordable)
- Frequency of care:
- Brushing:
- Short and smooth coat: Regular brushing to remove dead hair
- Long and coarse coat: More frequent brushing (1-2 times a week) to avoid tangles
- Additional care: Ear, teeth, and nail care needed
💰 Budget
- Purchase price:500-1500 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 250-600 €
🏡 Important note
Although the Podengo Português can adapt to apartment living, it is preferable for it to live in a house with a garden where it can expend energy. This active hunting dog needs a lot of exercise and space to thrive. If you are an active owner able to provide these conditions, you will find a loyal and energetic companion in it.
