A bright, spirited and down-to-earth dog. It is friendly and clever, playful at home and quick on its feet outdoors, and makes a pleasant, well-mannered companion.134
how to spot onePortuguese Podengo coat and colours
smooth or wire coat
Comes in two coats: a short, smooth one and a longer, rough wire one, both of medium thickness with no undercoat. The body is lean and athletic, with upright ears and a primitive, sighthound-like outline.12
Coloursyellowfawnwhite with patchesblack (small size)brown (small size)1
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Portuguese Podengo. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
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 10every year
by countryIs the Portuguese Podengo legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Portuguese Podengo in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksPortuguese Podengo exercise needs
An athletic hunter that loves to run and chase. The Royal Kennel Club suggests up to 30 minutes of exercise a day for the small size; the bigger sizes were bred for longer hunting days.34
the hands-on bitsPortuguese Podengo grooming and care
Low-maintenance coat; about one brush a week is enough for the smooth variety.3
where they are happiestPortuguese Podengo at home
Adapts to family life if it gets outdoor time to run in a safe, enclosed area, as it enjoys chasing.43
who they like aroundPortuguese Podengo with people and other pets
Friendly and sociable; the medium and small sizes traditionally hunt in packs as well as alone.32
where it all beganPortuguese Podengo history
The Podengo probably goes back to ancient dogs that reached Iberia with Phoenician and Roman traders and then adapted to Portugal's varied terrain. From the 15th century the small type sailed on Portuguese ships to keep rats down. The breed was organised in the early 20th century, and the standard for the large size was set in 1953.123
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
It comes in three sizes (small, medium and large) and two coat types, and the three sizes are not bred with each other.2
2
Small Podengos travelled on Portuguese caravels as ship ratters during the age of exploration.1
3
The large size can hunt hare or even deer, while the small size searches out rabbits in burrows and rocky ground.1
4
Its name is often translated as warren hound or rabbit hunter.3
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The name 'Podengo' is derived from the Portuguese word for 'hound' or 'rabbit dog', reflecting its primary use as a hunting dog for small game like rabbit.5
I woke up this morning and stretched my long legs, then trotted to the window to watch the birds. My human laughed and gave me a scratch behind the ears. After a quick walk in the park, I chased a leaf and sniffed every tree. Back home, I curled up on the sofa and dozed in a sunbeam. In the afternoon, we played fetch in the garden, I love running! At sunset, we walked again, and I wagged my tail at every neighbor. Now I'm cozy in my bed, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 94, Group 5 (Spitz and primitive types), Section 7 Primitive type hunting dogs; standard dated 04.11.2008. Three sizes and two coat types.1
The Royal Kennel Club
Hound group; mainly the small smooth-coated variety is seen in the UK.3
AKC
The small size is listed as the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno in the Hound group.4
The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a lively little hound that does well on a high-quality diet, but they can be prone to weight gain, so keep treats to a minimum and use them mainly for training. Like many small breeds, they can also be prone to dental issues, so regular tooth brushing and dental chews are a good idea, ask your vet for advice on a dental care routine.
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
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Portuguese Podengo, and at what times?
Feed your adult Portuguese Podengo at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. A consistent schedule helps their digestion, so aim for set times each day. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.6
What should a Portuguese Podengo eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for your Podengo's size and age. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Always avoid giving human treats like these.7
How often should I bathe a Portuguese Podengo?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. The ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. Use a gentle dog shampoo.8Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Portuguese Podengo need brushing?
Brush your Portuguese Podengo about once a week, which is enough for the smooth coat. The wire-coated variety may need a bit more attention. Regular brushing keeps the coat healthy and reduces shedding.38Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Portuguese Podengo's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every three weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demo.8Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Portuguese Podengo need?
The small size needs up to 30 minutes of exercise daily, while larger sizes were bred for longer hunting days. Daily walks and play in a safe, enclosed area are ideal. This athletic dog loves to run and chase.34Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Portuguese Podengo's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Floppy ears can trap moisture, so dry them gently. Never push anything into the ear canal.8Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Portuguese Podengo live?
The lifespan varies by size and individual health, so ask your vet for a specific estimate. Senior years usually start around age 10. With good care, many live a long, happy life. Pet Wiki plan
Is a Portuguese Podengo good with children and other pets?
Yes, this breed is friendly and sociable, and traditionally hunts in packs, so it can get along well with other dogs. Early socialisation helps with children and other pets. Always supervise interactions.321
Can a Portuguese Podengo be left alone?
This breed adapts to family life but enjoys company and can be sociable. How long it can be left alone varies by the individual dog. For specific advice, ask your vet or a good breeder.
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.
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