Podenco Andaluz
The Podenco Andaluz is a Spanish dog breed, weighing 5-33 kg and standing 40-60 cm tall. The Podenco Andaluz comes from Spain, and typically weighs Small: 5–11 kg. Individual Podenco Andaluzs vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Spain
- Weight
- Small: 5–11 kg (11–24 lb) Medium: 10–22 kg (22–49 lb) Large: 21–33 kg (46–73 lb)
- Height
- Males
About the Podenco Andaluz
The Podenco Andaluz is a Spanish dog breed, weighing 5-33 kg and standing 40-60 cm tall. It comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large.
Overview
The Podenco Andaluz is a Spanish breed of warren hound indigenous to the autonomous community of Andalusia , in south-western Spain. It is one of four podenco breeds recognized by the Real Sociedad Canina de España . It is an agile dog generally used to hunt ducks, rabbits, boar and fowl. There are three accepted sizes (small, medium and large) and three coat types (wire-haired, long-haired and smooth).
History
The Podenco Andaluz is a traditional warren hound of Andalucia. It is little documented, and its history remains obscure. : 578 It was recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina de España in 1992, with a breed standard detailing the nine varieties within the breed. : 578 : 1254 It received national recognition from the Ministerio de Agricultura, Pesca y Alimentación , the Spanish ministry of agriculture, with the publication of the official breed standard in May 2001. : 578 : 21180 It is not recognised by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale , but was recognized by the Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen of Germany in 2014. In 2009 it was one of the two most numerous dog breeds of Spain – the other being the Galgo Español ; : 580 in 2026 the Podenco was among the sixteen Spanish breeds considered by the Real Sociedad Canina de España to be vulnerable .
Characteristics
There are three sizes – large, medium and small – and three types of coat – wire-haired (Spanish: Cerdeño), long-haired (Spanish: Sedeño) and smooth. This combination of factors can results in nine different varieties. This variability may be the result of adaptation to the different microclimates within Andalusia, including mountains, agricultural land and marshes, as well as the diverse game targeted by hunters. Coat colors ranges from white to deep red. Podenco Andaluz have a trot as fast as their gallop. Like other warren hounds, the Podenco has excellent sight, hearing and sense of smell. They are renowned for their methodical hunting style, as well as stamina and endurance while working in the mild winters with irregular precipitations, and dry, hot, sunny summers of Andalusia. Podenco Andaluz are lively dogs, affectionate, loyal to their owners, but wary with strangers. Podenco Andaluz are used either singularly, in pairs or as part of a large hunting pack known as a rehala. Small and medium podenco Andaluz hunt rabbits with one dog entering the bramble to drive out the rabbit, while the rest lie in wait to catch it. Medium and smaller dogs search out deer or wild boar , while the larger hounds are used for attacking the prey. One of the most typical functions of the large Andalusian hound was that of the so-called quitaor [ a ] accompanying the Spanish greyhound colleras [ b ] during hare hunting. The quitaor ‘s job consisted primarily of flushing out the hares from their home or hiding place and killing them; then, together with the greyhounds, retrieving them for the owner. Andalusian farmhouses would use the larger hounds as watchdogs, and the smaller hounds were used to kill rodents. Genetically the Podenco Andaluz is most closely related to the Galgo Español .
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Podenco Andaluz?
The Podenco Andaluz is a Spanish warren hound with three accepted sizes (small, medium, and large) and three coat types (wire-haired, long-haired, and smooth). This combination of factors results in nine different varieties, which may be an adaptation to the different microclimates within Andalusia.
Is the Podenco Andaluz a good family dog?
As a hunting breed, the Podenco Andaluz requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are generally agile and energetic, which may not be suitable for very young children. However, with proper training and socialization, they can make good family pets for active families who can provide the necessary care and attention.
What health problems do Podenco Andaluzs have?
As a relatively rare breed, there is limited information available on specific health problems affecting the Podenco Andaluz. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to general health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential health issues early on.
How much does a Podenco Andaluz puppy cost?
The cost of a Podenco Andaluz puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. As a rare breed, prices may be higher than for more common breeds. On average, you can expect to pay between €500 to €1,500 or more for a Podenco Andaluz puppy.
Where do Podenco Andaluzs come from?
The Podenco Andaluz comes from Spain. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Podenco Andaluz, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.