Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengo
Also known as Podengo Português · Chien de Garenne Portugais · Portugiesischer Podengo · Podenco Portugués
Portugal, Primitive type - Hunting Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- —
- Weight
- —
- Life expectancy
- —
- Alert
- Active
- Affectionate
- Agile
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengo
The Portuguese Podengo is a primitive hunting dog from Portugal, found in small, medium and large sizes, with smooth or wire coats. It was used to flush and catch rabbits in scrub and rocky ground. It has large erect ears, a lean body and a quick, athletic build.
Temperament
Alert, active and affectionate, it is typically attached to its family. It has a strong prey drive and can be independent.
Exercise
Needs plenty of exercise and secure fencing. It enjoys running and play and may jump.
Grooming
The coat needs weekly brushing, with occasional tidying for the wire coat.
Care & wellbeing
Keep lean and check ears and nails. Secure fencing helps.
Living with a Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengo
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A Portuguese hunting dog of ancient Mediterranean type, bred in small, medium and large sizes to hunt rabbits in dense scrub. It is agile, lively and has a strong prey drive.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Eye conditions
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Patella assessment
- Eye tests
Not every Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengo is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A commitment of many years
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengo right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How much exercise does a Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengo need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengo need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengos easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengos shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengos good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengo live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengos have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, eye conditions. Not every Portuguese Warren Hound-Portuguese Podengo is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Portugal
- Type
- Primitive type - Hunting Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954