Podenco Valenciano

Also called Xarnego Valenciano, Charnego, Gos Coniller, Xarnego-Podenco Valenciano

A keen, focused hunting dog with strong natural drive, happiest when it has a job to do outdoors.

Size	Medium
Weight	18 to 20 kg (40 to 44 lb)males 20 kg, females 18 kg1
Height	50 to 61 cm (20 to 24 in)males 55 to 61 cm, females 50 to 57 cm1
Coat	Smooth, rough or long/silky, without undercoat
Origin	Valencian Community, eastern Spain.1 2

Recognised breedShort profile

versatile hunter

sharp sight, hearing and nose

comfortable in warm climates

1 2

Personality what they are like

A keen, focused hunting dog with strong natural drive, happiest when it has a job to do outdoors.2

Coat and looks how to spot one

smooth, rough or long/silky, without undercoat

A muscular, athletic hound found in three coat types: smooth, rough and a silky variety known locally as 'polserut', which is unusual among Iberian podencos.1 2

Coloursblackwhitebrown shades1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Podenco Valenciano. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. Developed for hunting rabbits over varied Mediterranean terrain, so it needs plenty of daily exercise and chances to use its nose.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The smooth and rough coats need little care beyond occasional brushing; the silky coat benefits from more regular brushing.1 2

The story where it all began

A traditional rabbit dog of eastern Spain, long kept by working people who often hunted with it at night. Some describe it as possibly the oldest of the Iberian podencos. It gained official Valencian recognition in 2013 and RSCE recognition in 2017.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Its silky-coated variety, called 'polserut' locally, is a rarity among Iberian podencos.2
2
It was traditionally used for rabbit hunting at night.1
3
It is well suited to hot climates and to the Mediterranean landscapes of eastern Spain and the Ebro valley.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Podenco Valenciano' refers to a breed of warren hound originating in the Valencian Community of Spain, and it is also known as the Xarnego Valenciano or Gos Coniller.1

Name ideas for your new friend

ConejoXarnegoValenciaNaranjaRayoCazadorSolPebreOlivaCorrecaminosChispaTaronja

A day in the life told by a Podenco Valenciano

I wake up to the smell of thyme and rosemary from the hillside. My human calls me, and I sprint to the door, tail high. We head to the dry riverbed where the scents of rabbit and wild herbs dance in the air. I zigzag through the bushes, nose to the ground, every rustle a promise. At midday, we rest under a pine tree, and I watch the lizards dart across hot stones. In the evening, we trot home, tired and happy. The stars come out as I curl up, dreaming of tomorrow's chase.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Generalitat Valenciana: Officially recognised as a native Valencian breed in 2013.1
Real Sociedad Canina de España (RSCE): Recognised in 2017.1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Podenco Valenciano, and at what times?

Feed adult Podenco Valenciano at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. A consistent morning and evening schedule works well, but follow the food label for amounts and ask your vet for a tailored plan.3

What should a Podenco Valenciano eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.4

How often should I bathe a Podenco Valenciano?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty. Use a dog-safe shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep its coat healthy.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Podenco Valenciano need brushing?

For smooth and rough coats, weekly brushing is enough; the silky variety benefits from more frequent brushing, even daily. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends brushing every 7 days. Use a soft brush to keep the coat clean and shiny.1 2 5 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Podenco Valenciano's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time and stop before the quick. If you are unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Podenco Valenciano need?

This breed needs plenty of daily exercise, at least an hour or more, including walks and opportunities to sniff and explore. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends daily walks and play. A tired Podenco is a happy Podenco.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Podenco Valenciano's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt and dry them gently. Never insert anything into the ear canal.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Podenco Valenciano live?

Lifespan varies, but many medium-sized dogs live around 12 to 15 years. For specific information, ask your vet or a good breeder.

Is a Podenco Valenciano good with children and other pets?

As a hunting hound with a strong natural drive, early socialisation is important. It can be good with children if raised with them, but supervision is needed. For other pets, especially small animals, caution is advised. Ask your breeder or a trainer for guidance.2

Can a Podenco Valenciano be left alone?

This active breed may become bored or anxious if left alone for long periods. Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation before leaving. Consider crate training or a pet sitter. For specific advice, consult a trainer.2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.