Description

There are three sizes of Podengo Portugueso: Grande (large), Medio (medium) and Pequeno (small). The Medio Podengo Portugueso is a moderately-sized sighthound type with a well-proportioned head, flat skull and pronounced stop. The nose is usually brown, but may be black. The ears are large, naturally upright, triangular and highly mobile, turning forward to catch sound. The muzzle is straight. The chest is muscular and prominent. The small, oblique eyes are brown to honey in color. The cat-like feet have well arched toes with hard, strong pads. The back line only has a slight arch. The neck is strong and muscular without dewlap. When the dog is calm the tail hangs down, when the dog is excited or in motion the tail is horizontal. The coat comes in two varieties: smooth and wirehaired. The smooth coat is hard and longer than that of most sighthounds. The wirehaired coat is medium-long, shaggy and coarse. Colors may include yellow, fawn, or black with white markings.

Origin

Podengo Portuguesos come in three sizes: The Grande (large), Medio (medium), and Pequeno (small). There are two possible origins of all Podengo Portugueso. The Grande, from which the Medio and Pequeno evolved, is similar to the tan-colored sighthounds, such as the Peninsula. However, the Podengo could be a descendant of small Iberian wolves. Although the Medio's closest relative, the Podengo Grande, is now very rare, this lively and alert medium-sized hound remains a popular dog, particularly in rural parts of northern Portugal. It is sometimes still used as a small-game hunter there. Hunting in packs or alone, the Portuguese Hounds became very skilled at hunting rabbits. Human intervention in breeding has reduced the Medio's size, while leaving other characteristics intact. In Portugal these dogs are used for hunting, ratting, guard work and companionship. Nickname: Portuguese Rabbit Dog

Temperament

The Podengo Portugueso Medio is probably the fastest of three Podengos. It is an intelligent, lively dog. Courageous and a good watchdog. Affectionate, making good family companions. Many Portuguese owners favor the Medio over both of its brothers, the Grande and Pequeno because they feel its size is ideal - not too big and not too small. Regardless of its size, the Medio is a wonderful companion dog and super-efficient hunter. Some may fight with other dogs.

Height

Height: Small - 8-12 inches (20-31 cm.)

Weight

Weight: Small - 9-13 pounds (4-6 kg.)

Known Health Problems

A very healthy breed. Because this breed has had relatively limited intervention by humans in the Podengo's breeding, it has a low incidence of known inherited defects or diseases.

Conditions for Living

The Podengo Portugueso Medio is not recommended for apartment life. They are well-suited for hot sunny climates and can live and sleep outdoors so long as they have adequate shelter.

Exercise Requirments

This fast and very active breed needs a lot of daily exercise,

Life Expectancy

About 12-14 years.

Grooming

The Podengo Portugueso Medio needs little grooming. Occasionally comb and brush to remove the dead and loose hair. This breed is an average shedder.

Group

Southern