If you’ve ever been to the Iberian Peninsula, then you’ve definitely come across one or the other Podenco.
Maybe it was even him Podenco Andaluzwhich is the subject of the following breed portrait.
We explain to you what you should pay particular attention to in terms of health and upbringing of the breed.
Podenco Andaluz: Characteristics
Size Male: 35 to 64 cm, female: 32 to 61 cmWeightMale & Female: 8 to 33 kg ColorsCinnamon Brown, Cinnamon Brown/WhiteLife expectancy12 to 15 yearsOriginSpaincharacter/temperamenteasygoing, intelligent, affectionate, loyal, playful, lively, attentiveFCI groupnot acknowledged
Look
Compact and short: This is how the physique of the Podenco Andaluz can be summed up.
A relatively straight back and a muscular body supported by slender legs are characteristic of the dog.
The very slender head, which becomes much narrower towards the muzzle, is particularly noticeable due to the large, triangular erect ears.
The eyes of the Podenco Andaluz are almond-shaped and large, and are dark brown in color.
The tail is long and narrow and shows a slight bend. The two-colored variant often has a white tail tip.
Weight size
There are three Podenco Andaluz variants that differ from each other in size and weight. This works out as follows:
Podenco Andaluz styleshoulder height/cmweight/kgPequeno♂ 35 – 42 cm♀ 32 – 41 cm♂ & ♀up to 8 kgmedium♂ 43 – 53 cm♀ 42 – 52 cm♂ & ♀up to 16 kggrande♂ 54 – 64 cm♀ 53 – 61 cm♂ & ♀up to 33 kg
Coat, coat colors & coat texture
The coat of the Podenco Andaluz can be two colors: pure cinnamon brown or two-tone, namely cinnamon brown and white.
You can find the colors typical of the Podenco Andaluz on three different types of fur:
- Liso/Smooth Hair: Fine, short coat
- Cerdeño/Wire: Hard, long coat
- Sedeño/Silk Hair: Silky, long coat
History & origin of the Podenco Andaluz
The Podenco Andaluz is a Spanish breed of dog from the southern Spanish region of Andalusia.
He is just one of many Podenco breeds that are typical of the Iberian Peninsula. How exactly his ancestors came to Spain has not been clarified to this day.
According to a myth, the Podenco Andaluz is said to be the descendant of pharaoh hounds that came to Europe with the Phoenicians.
Essence & character of the Podenco Andaluz
The Podenco Andaluz is considered characteristically very multi-faceted dog. Many dog experts describe him as a mixture of dog, cat and philosopher.
This does not automatically mean that he thinks a lot or prefers to be busy with himself – on the contrary.
True, he may at times have a thoughtful nature. However, his playful, lively and attentive temperament and his loyal heart are really typical of him.
He loves spending time with his people more than anything – not only when playing, but also when hunting.
Properly raised, the Podenco Andaluz is a loyal soul that never leaves its owner’s side.
Has the Podenco Andaluz let off steam properly? Then, after the day’s business is done, he shows his relaxed side.
attitude & upbringing
In the following lines we will tell you whether and which role Nature and temperament in the upbringing and keeping of the Podenco Andaluz play.
Upbringing
The alert and intelligent nature of the Podenco Andaluz usually makes training a breeze.
Of course, consistency, assertiveness and loving leadership should not be missing from this fur nose.
Insecurities on your part, on the other hand, can represent some stumbling blocks in the upbringing.
The Podenco Andaluz remembers this – and will try to use it to his advantage.
attitude
The Podenco Andaluz is happiest when he is allowed to live in a house with his own garden.
It is not least due to its origin that the Podenco Andaluz prefers to be in the fresh air all day long and has enough space.
This also includes ensuring that it is sufficiently utilized every day, including through long walks in nature.
The intelligent nature also means that mental work should not be neglected in the Podenco Andaluz either.
Good to know
The affectionate Podenco Andaluz wants to be introduced to being left alone as a puppy. Otherwise, leaving him alone will give him a hard time.
Health & Care
Can the Podenco Andaluz get one good health without diseases and problems delight? And what care does the dog need? You will find out now.
Life expectancy
The Podenco Andaluz has an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
Health
The Podenco Andaluz is said to have very robust health and a very resilient nature.
There is no overbreeding in the breed. Instead, it has benefited from struggling through the Spanish (urban) landscape for centuries.
That means: Breed-typical illnesses and health problems are generally not present with the Podenco Andaluz.
The following aspects, which you always have to consider, play a role in the robust health of the Podenco Andaluz:
- All-round protection against all endo- and ectoparasites
- Vaccination protection that begins with the primary vaccination of the puppy
- Annual health check-ups by the treating veterinarian
General Grooming & Grooming
The general care of the Podenco Andaluz focuses on controlling the most sensitive parts of the body:
- Paws & Claws
- mouth & teeth
- Eyes
- ears
- buttocks
If you always keep an eye on these body regions, you can minimize the risk of inflammation and disease.
Especially with long fur, you should not forget to check it for ticks, fleas, mosquitoes and other insects after a walk in the hot months of the year.
That being said, the intensity of grooming depends on the length of the coat. The Liso variant only needs to be brushed once a week.
Especially with the Sedeño variant of the Podenco Andaluz you are welcome to use a brush and grooming glove every day.
Is the Podenco Andaluz right for me?
Before a Podenco Andaluz moves in with you, you should answer the following question with a «yes»: Is the Podenco Andaluz right for me?
You can find out with the help of the following statements:
- You have enough time and space for your Podenco Andaluz.
- You are looking for a bright family dog with a watch instinct and play instinct.
- You are aware of the responsibility you take on for the Podenco Andaluz.
Fun facts about the Podenco Andaluz
Last but not least, we have collected a few exciting fun facts about the Podenco Andaluz for you.
Do you want a Podenco Andaluz to be your roommate? The costs for a reputable breeder are around €1,000. You will also find a Podenco Andaluz in animal welfare.
Due to its origin, the Podenco Andaluz is a real frostbite – and accordingly sensitive to cold.
A Podenco Andaluz is very skeptical of strangers.
There are 6 Podenco breeds in Spain, of which the Podenco Andaluz is one.
The Podenco Andaluz has a built-in motion detector. If not properly trained, it reacts to the slightest movement – by hunting.
Can you add more facts and tips? Then we would be happy if you share them with us in the comments.