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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Portuguese Podengo
The Portuguese Podengo comes in three distinct sizes: Grande, Medio and Pequeño.
The Grande is very similar to the Ibizan Hound and is very rare, the Medio is smaller
but very similar and the small or Pequeño is very similar in size to the
Chihuahua. All three have the same coat color which is mostly fawn or yellow. This
breed also comes in a smooth coat variety, which is short and dense, and the wirehaired
variety, which is medium in length, rough and harsh with no undercoat. The wire
coat produces a distinct beard. The head is well-chiseled and lean. The skull is
relatively flat between the ears. The muzzle is round with a straight nasal bond.
The lips are always darker in color and the teeth meet in a scissor bite. The nose
is tapered and is always darker than the coat color. The ears are erect, mobile
and set with the outside edge at the level of the eyes. The neck is straight, long
and well-muscled. The chest is deep to the elbow and the back is straight. The tail
is set rather high and reaches to the hock joint. The Podengo has exceptional sight,
sound and scent.
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Temperament
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The Portuguese Podengo is a lively, affectionate and active dog. This breed will
do fine as an only pet or with other animals. This loyal and fearless dog makes
a great watchdog. They are friendly, enthusiastic and when outdoors, are quite obedient
if properly trained. This breed will even seek out their owners. This breed gets
along well with children but should not be treated roughly. They may not get along
with small animals as they will look on them as prey. The Podengo is highly trainable
and excels at agility.
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Height, Weight
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Pequeño Height: 8-12" ; Weight: 9-13 lbs.
Medio Height: 16-22" ; Weight: 35-44 lbs.
Grande Height: 22-28" ; Weight: 44-66 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The Podengo have no genetic defects or inherited diseases in their genes. They are
a hardy breed.
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Living Conditions
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The Podengo is bred to hunt and live outdoors and would do better in a rural or
suburban environment.
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Exercise
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The Podengo needs plenty of exercise. Long walks or play will satisfy their exercise
needs.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-15+ years
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Grooming
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The coat of this breed is to be shown in its natural state, groomed but not clipped
or trimmed.
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Origin
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The Portuguese Podengos were primitive hunting dogs that were given to Phoenician
traders when they landed on Africa in 600 BC. When these traders arrived in the
Port of Gaul (Portugal) in the 700s BC, they brought their dogs with them. The Podengo
was developed in three sizes and two coat types to be suited to the different climates,
terrain, type of hunting style and type of prey. The Podengo Medios have starred
in several movies, including Soccer Dog, Zeus and Roxanne. They are recognized by
the AKC, the FCI and the UKC
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Group
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AKC/FSS Hound, UKC Sighthound and Pariah
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