Home » Meet The Breeds » Portuguese Podengo Pequeno Dog Breed
The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is the smallest of three size varieties of Portuguese Podengos. Known for its alert and lively nature as well as its diminutive size, this lively dog has a rich history as a skilled rabbit hunter in its native Portugal. The breed’s unique triangular ears and wedge-shaped head, combined with its small and athletic build, distinguish it in appearance as well as function.
Hound
8 – 12 Inches
9 – 13 Pounds
12 – 15 Years
Country of Origin | Portugal |
---|---|
Bred For | Rabbit and Vermin Hunting, Companionship |
Known For | Playfulness, High Energy, Alertness |
Popularity | Low |
Temperament | Intelligent, Lively, Watchful |
Activities | Hunting, Walking, Hiking, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports |
The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno, as its name suggests, hails from Portugal and is the smallest of three Podengo sizes, the others being Medio and Grande. With a history that traces back several centuries, the Podengo Pequeno holds a significant place in Portuguese culture and heritage.
This breed’s origins are believed to be tied to the ancient dogs brought to the Iberian Peninsula by Phoenician traders from the Middle East around 1000 BCE. Those early canines likely interbred with local dogs, leading to the development of the various Podengos. The Pequeno, specifically, was bred to excel at hunting rabbits across the rugged terrain of Portugal, leveraging its small size as well as its agility and keen senses.
Throughout its history, the Podengo Pequeno has been highly valued by farmers and hunters for its adeptness in assisting in hunting expeditions and controlling local vermin populations. The breed’s size made them particularly suited for chasing prey into burrows and tight spaces, and their sharp senses ensured they rarely missed their mark.
The breed, over time, became an integral part of rural Portuguese life. The dogs’ efficiency as hunters, combined with their amiable nature, made them popular not just as working dogs but also as companions.
In terms of official recognition, the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno was first recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). Later, The Royal Kennel Club (UK) granted them recognition, solidifying the breed’s position in the canine world outside of Portugal. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 2013, further elevating its status among dog enthusiasts globally.
Today, the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno enjoys a growing popularity worldwide both as a show dog and as a beloved family companion. Its rich history and endearing qualities will likely ensure that it remains a cherished breed in the hearts of many for years to come.
At the withers, both male and female Portuguese Podengo Pequenos typically measure between 8 and 12 inches tall.
Regarding weight, both males and females usually weigh in the range of 9 to 13 pounds.
Portuguese Podengo Pequenos are well-proportioned little dogs with a harmonious build that indicates their agility, stamina, and robustness. The Podengo Pequeno’s body is slightly longer than the dog’s height, giving this small rabbit hunter a rectangular shape. The breed is sturdy and solid without appearing heavy, emphasizing its origins as an agile hunter in rocky crevices, dense thickets, and even aboard ships.
Texture: The coat of the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno can be one of two types: smooth or wire. The smooth coat is short and very dense, whereas the wire coat is long and harsh, with a rough texture. Both varieties are without undercoat and both are adapted to the varied conditions of the breed’s native Portugal. Soft, silky coats are unacceptable, and wire coats require no trimming or sculpting.
Standard Color | |
---|---|
Black | ee |
Chestnut | ee |
Fawn | ee |
Gold | ee |
Gray | ee |
Orange | ee |
Red | ee |
White & Black | ee |
White & Fawn | ee |
White & Gold | ee |
White & Gray | ee |
White & Orange | ee |
White & Red | ee |
Yellow | ee |
White & Chestnut | ee |
White & Yellow | ee |
Markings: White Markings
A Note About Color: The color of the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno’s coat may be yellow or fawn in shades ranging from light to medium to dark. Both colors and all shades offer protection from the blistering Portuguese sun. Solid-colored dogs are common as are those with white markings and white dogs with colored markings. Although Podengo Pequenos with black or brown coats are acceptable, they are not preferred.
The tail of the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is set medium-high on the topline, thick at the base, and tapering towards the tip. It is lightly feathered on the underside. In movement, the tail is curved and carried upwards, though it should never curl over the back. When relaxed, it hangs down, reaching the hocks. The tail is an expressive part of the Podengo Pequeno, often wagging vigorously when the dog is excited or alert.
The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a lively and energetic breed that thrives in a variety of environments, from small apartments to homes with yards. The breed’s alert and playful nature, combined with its compact size, makes this dog an ideal choice for many families. Before deciding to acquire a Podengo Pequeno, it is essential to understand the breed’s characteristics, health considerations, and emotional and physical needs.
The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is generally a healthy breed with a robust constitution. The breed’s compact size and active lifestyle contribute to the its overall good health and vitality. However, like all breeds and mixed breeds, individuals may be susceptible to certain conditions and health concerns.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is around 12 to 15 years. With proper care, regular check-ups, and a balanced diet, many can live long and fulfilling lives.
The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno, while a generally healthy breed, can be predisposed to certain health conditions. Recognizing these potential risks can aid in early detection and treatment.
Building a relationship with a dog’s breeder and a trusted veterinarian, and scheduling regular health screenings, is important. The support provided can offer any Portuguese Podengo Pequeno a long, happy and healthy life.
The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is characterized by its lively and spirited temperament. Originally bred as a hunting dog, the breed’s alertness, curiosity, and keen sense of its surroundings remain evident in the Podengo Pequeno’s behavior today. This zest for life makes these dogs an enjoyable companion for many families.
For novice dog owners, the Podengo Pequeno can be a suitable choice. These hounds are relatively adaptable and can thrive under consistent training and established boundaries. That said, prospective owners should be prepared to understand and manage their need for activity.
The responsive nature of the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno means these dogs often react to changes in their environment or routine. This sensitivity demonstrates how they value consistency and can be slightly reserved when faced with unfamiliar situations or people. Despite their need for companionship, with the right training and mental engagement the Podengo Pequeno can manage short durations alone. However, extended periods of solitude are not ideal, as they might develop unwanted behaviors stemming from boredom or anxiety.
Socially, the Podengo Pequeno generally interacts well with other dogs, especially when properly introduced and socialized from an early age. Their playful and gentle demeanor also makes them a compatible match for families with children, although supervision during these interactions is vital to safeguard both the kids and the dog. When it comes to strangers, their inherent alertness makes them somewhat wary. They aren’t typically aggressive, but they may take a moment to assess the situation or to become accustomed to unfamiliar faces.
In essence, the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno offers a rich blend of enthusiasm, intelligence, and loyalty. With appropriate guidance and social experiences, these hounds are most likely to integrate effortlessly into various home settings, providing endless moments of camaraderie and joy.
Proper nutrition is foundational for maintaining the health and vitality of the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno. While their dietary needs may vary based on factors such as age, activity level, and health status, some general guidelines can assist owners in offering optimal nutrition.
For Podengo Pequeno puppies, it’s essential to provide a balanced diet that supports their rapid growth phase. Many choose specially formulated puppy foods that contain essential nutrients for developing bones, muscles, and organs. As these puppies transition to adulthood, their dietary requirements will change, and it’s vital to make this transition smoothly to avoid any gastrointestinal issues.
Adult Podengo Pequenos typically need fewer calories per pound than their younger counterparts. However, their activity level heavily influences their caloric needs. Active adults might require more energy-dense foods, while less active or older dogs might benefit from a diet with fewer calories to prevent unwanted weight gain. On average, an adult Podengo Pequeno might consume between 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry dog food daily, split into two meals. But it’s essential to adjust this based on the dog’s individual needs and the specific recommendations of the chosen food brand.
When determining the amount of food, it’s also crucial to consider treats and additional snacks, as these can add significant calories to the dog’s daily intake. For a balanced approach, treats should constitute no more than 10% of the dog’s daily caloric intake.
As always, it’s beneficial to consult with a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist to determine the most appropriate feeding regimen for your Podengo Pequeno. Regular weight checks and body condition assessments can also guide any necessary adjustments to the feeding routine, ensuring your dog remains at a healthy weight and optimal condition throughout their life.
Training a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno can be a rewarding experience given their keen intelligence and eager-to-please nature. However,