History
Podengo Pequenos is a primitive breed that is assumed to develop from primeval hounds brought by the Phoenician merchants to the Iberian Peninsula from Anatolia in 1,000 BC. The harsh environment and climatic conditions played a crucial role while shaping this breed.
In an early 15th century, Europeans kept them on their canoes for rat catching. It was also used by the local farmers for several years as rabbit hunters. In 2001 ARBA organized a show in which wire coated Podengo Pequenos were displayed in public for the first time, and the smooth-coated dog was first unleashed in 2003 in America.
Temperament & Personality
Pequeno is famous as an untiring hunting helpmate of farmers and also admired as an excellent family partner by the city people. It is amiable and cheerful, with its humorous nature it always tries to please its family members. They are not very shy or aggressive, but they are fearless and tenacious around strangers, making them ideal watchdogs. Early socialization can make them friendlier to small pets and children in the house. But their interaction requires supervision as they can knock down the baby or the baby might hurt them unintentionally.
Exercise
Podengo is an energetic breed and requires plenty of exercises regularly. Activities will be in the form of jogging regular walks etc. They love running off leash, hence, the owner can allow them, to play in an open yard or a Dogs park. They also like to participate in games like flyball, lure coursing and agility. Offering toys and chew will also keep them busy and mentally active.
Grooming
They require moderate grooming measures, their wiry coat needs occasional brushing to prevent tangles and knots while dogs with smooth coat will require brushing once a week. A pin brush is ideal for cleaning the wiry coat, and hound mitt will keep the smooth coat shiny. Bathe them occasionally or when they are incredibly filthy.
Dogs get ear infections easily due to water, dirt buildup and need regular checking to prevent infections and pain. Hence, clean their ears with Vet prescribed ear solution. They also grow nails faster which crackles easily and if not appropriately trimmed it can hinder regular activities like walking, running, etc. Brush their teeth twice a week to avoid development tartar and oral problems.
Health Problems
It is active and healthy and does not inherit any health conditions and diseases. However, they can suffer from hip dysplasia, due to their active nature and random vet checkups and occasional test like blood, X-ray, full body examination can keep them healthy and fit.
Training
They are loyal, affectionate, smart and intelligent which makes them easy to train dogs, but still requires a consistent and firm trainer to teach them. Additionally, allow guests to handle and cuddle them, also introduce the pup to unfamiliar faces regularly but makes sure the meeting is pleasant and unthreatening. Owners can also take them to busy streets, bus stops this will allow the pet to face new situations. Take them to dogs Park it will enable them to meet unknown people and pets which will socialize them.
Podengo posses an independent nature and training them in obedience can prevent obstructive behaviors in the future. Owners can teach them easy commands like sit, stay, stop, yes no, etc. It will polish their behavior and also improve the relationship between the owner and the pet. Keep the session positive, short, relaxed and in variety to prevent boredom. Positive reinforcements like treats and pats will make them learn quickly.
Feeding
Podengo does well on a high proportion of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Owners can feed them dry dog food or homemade food, but it is necessary to ensure the quantity as the active dog require more protein than the one sitting on the couch.
It is advisable to visit a dietician or a vet before choosing its food and its quantity. For better digestion divide meals into two halves. Owners can also opt for raw food diet.
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