Portuguese Podengo — breed guide

At a glance

Group

hound

Size

Small

Weight

4–30 kg (9–66 lb)

Life span

12–15 years

Coat

Smooth or wiry

Living with a Portuguese Podengo

• High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
• Light grooming — a brush now and then.
• Light shedding.
• Trainable with consistency.
• Barks readily.
• Good with children.
• Gets along with other dogs.
• Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
• Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
• Better with previous experience behind you.
• Handles warm weather well.
• Average cold tolerance.

Temperament

Lively · Alert · Playful · Independent

Health to watch

• Luxating patella
• Hip dysplasia

Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.

Questions people ask

Is a Portuguese Podengo good with kids?

Generally yes. Portuguese Podengos are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.

Is a Portuguese Podengo good with cats?

It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.

How much exercise does a Portuguese Podengo need?

An hour or more of proper exercise every day.

Can a Portuguese Podengo handle hot weather?

It copes well with warm days.