Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Small Portuguese Hound, Small Portuguese Warren Hound
The Pequeno is one of the three Portuguese Podengos, the other two being the Portuguese Podengo Grande and the Portuguese Podengo Medio. In most countries these types are seen as varieties rather than separate breeds. However, the American Kennel Club currently recognizes only the Pequeno. The Medio and Grande are lumped together as a single breed in their Foundation Stock Service.
Although in appearance the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a primitive sighthound, they have been bred to work as terriers. They flush out small prey such as rabbits from hiding places both above and below ground. Traditionally they work in tandem with the Medio, flushing out the prey for its larger ‘cousin’.
Unlike the Grande and Medio, the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is starting to gain a large following as a companion. No longer seen strictly as a hunting dog it is finding homes both within and outside of Portugal's borders.
Although in appearance the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a primitive sighthound, they have been bred to work as terriers. They flush out small prey such as rabbits from hiding places both above and below ground. Traditionally they work in tandem with the Medio, flushing out the prey for its larger ‘cousin’.
Unlike the Grande and Medio, the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is starting to gain a large following as a companion. No longer seen strictly as a hunting dog it is finding homes both within and outside of Portugal's borders.
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno Standards
- 8-12"
- 9-13 lbs
- small primitive sighthound
- ears are large and triangular, very mobile, erect
- tail is set high, medium-length
- two coat varieties: short and smooth or long and wired
- any shade of yellow or fawn with or without white markings
- tones of black or brown with or without white markings
- white with any shade of yellow or fawn markings
- white with black or brown markings
History of the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a primitive dog that has existed in Portugal for centuries. They have been bred down in size from the larger Podengo varieties, the Grande and the Medio. Their ancestors were likely first brought to the region by Phoenicians. It is unknown if any other breeds were used in the Pequeno’s development. Although it does seem probable that it was crossed with terriers at some point.
Related Breeds: