The lively, sighthound-like Podenco Canario hails from the Canary Islands. This slender hunting hound, known for its strong predatory drive, is quite common in Spain. In other countries, this breed is mostly found in shelters or rescue stations.
The Podenco Canario is a sporty hunting dog and, standing at 50 to 65 centimetres, it’s a medium-sized breed.
However, weighing in at just 20 to 30 kilograms, it’s notably light. This gives it a graceful and elegant appearance. The lack of subcutaneous fat means the ribs are often distinctly visible.
The elegant body shape is reminiscent of sighthound types, emphasized by the flexible, thin tail. The large, mobile ears are also quite striking.
Red Dominates the Colour Palette
The Podenco Canario comes in various colour variations. Its fur ranges from an orange hue to a deep red or mahogany and can be solid or white-spotted.
The amber eyes set in a longish head scarcely contrast with the smooth, dense fur. A white tail tip is also commonly seen.
Did you know? The appearance of the Podenco Canario strongly resembles the ancient Egyptian Tesem dog. Should this truly be part of its lineage, the Podenco Canario breed may date back several thousand years. However, there’s no evidence to confirm this.
The Podenco Canario is a dog with a strong hunting instinct, so it’s best to keep them on a lead.
Temperament: What is the Podenco Canario Like?
The Podenco Canario houses two souls: indoors, it is an exceedingly calm, unobtrusive dog. It behaves gently towards its surroundings and enjoys retreating to its basket after a day’s work.
The Hunter Within!
However, bear in mind the Podenco is, at heart, a hunting dog – and can be quite demanding as a result.
Packed with energy, this dog has a strong character and desires physical exertion. Owners are continually challenged to assert themselves against the dog’s will and predatory drive. Consistent dog training is therefore essential.
Although the Podenco Canario isn’t aggressive, hunting is part of its nature. It can hardly suppress this urge: when out and about, it is always on the lookout.
Pulling on the lead and displaying very curious behaviour are normal for this dog. If the Podenco Canario catches a scent, it will undoubtedly want to follow it.
Best Kept on a Lead
During walks, you should keep your pet on a lead. Otherwise, its strong hunting instinct may compel it to embark on independent explorations, potentially ending with the dog attacking cats or wild animals.
Suitability: Is the Podenco Canario a Good Pet?
The Podenco Canario is only recommendable as a pet to a limited extent. This Mediterranean breed carries a strong predatory drive in its genes and won’t settle for a quiet family life.
Plenty of Stimulation Required
Be aware that you are considering an energetic beast with high standards. Without physical challenges, the Podenco Canario may become nervous and restless as it accumulates excess energy.
If unable to expend its energy, the dog’s imbalance will eventually manifest as unpleasant behavioural changes. It might even start deconstructing your furniture.
The Podenco Canario in Hunting
The Podenco Canario was bred for demanding rabbit hunts across the rugged volcanic rock fields of the Canary Islands. With its enduring and devoted nature, it is exceptionally well-suited to this type of high-energy chasing.
Rabbits are swift and scarce – but the Podenco Canario is no less adept! This dog can track its prey even down the most inaccessible pathways. Another significant strength is its tremendous jumping ability.
Built for High Temperatures
With its slender build, the Podenco Canario lacks substantial amounts of subcutaneous fat. It also does not have a dense coat of fur.
As a result, it’s only partly suited for water hunting in our locales. It cools down quickly and could easily catch a cold.
Care: Ample Exercise and Protection from the Cold
The Podenco Canario can be kept in an apartment or an outdoor enclosure. In both scenarios, it is crucial that the dog gets plenty of exercise.
If you’re not hunting with it, plan for long walks involving sprints, fetching, and carrying. Keep introducing new toys to train and stimulate your four-legged friend.
Apartment Living
Hailing from warm regions with a moderate climate, the Podenco Canario is not accustomed to harsh cold. In the colder months, it is essential to keep the dog indoors.
After a lengthy walk, this dog also enjoys retreating to its sanctuary. Ensure there is a sufficiently large basket with blankets in a comfortably warm spot.
Weather Protection is Essential!
The Podenco Canario quickly starts shivering in cold and wet weather. Due to its lean body shape, its resistance to cold and damp conditions isn’t very high.
Therefore, it appreciates a warm, waterproof dog coat. Additionally, dry your pet as soon as possible with a towel.
Outdoor Living for the Podenco Canario
In the summer months, your dog will enjoy spending time in the garden. Here too, it requires protection from the weather. Provide a cozy dog house for shelter.
Health: Are Podenco Canarios Prone to Illness?
The Podenco Canario is considered robust and resilient. There are no breed-specific diseases known. As the breed has not fallen victim to any fads, breeding tends to be highly controlled and clean.
Take Diarrhoea in the Podenco Canario Seriously
The Podenco Canario has a robust constitution, but like any dog, it can fall ill. If your dog seems off, becoming lethargic and inactive, please consult a veterinarian.
Pay particular attention to your dog’s stool consistency. Stress or spoiled food scraps can lead to diarrhoea in your dog. Persistent diarrhoea is always an alarm signal, as insufficient energy intake can become dangerous for such a lean animal.
How Long Can a Podenco Canario Live?
Podenco Canarios have an average lifespan of 12 years.
Nutrition of the Podenco Canario
Careful attention should be paid to a balanced diet with high-quality fresh and dry food, possibly mixed. Always consider the activity level and adjust food portions accordingly.
It’s also possible to feed your dog home-cooked meals or opt for raw feeding. However, it’s always advisable to consult a nutrition expert beforehand. Nutrient deficiencies due to unbalanced meals can be dangerous for any dog.
Rest After Eating
Ensure a calm, relaxed environment during feeding times and allow your dog to rest afterwards. Give it enough time before starting any new activities. Otherwise, digestive problems, or in the worst case, gastric torsion, may occur.
Origin: Where Does the Podenco Canario Come From?
The Podenco Canario originates from the Canary Islands in Spain. Even in Roman times, the original inhabitants, the Guanches, were known for their dog breeding. However, the specific breed they had is not verified.
Spanish conquerors brought their own hunting dogs to the islands. The Podenco Canario likely emerged from a mix of the imported dogs with the native ones.
The breed has been recognised by the FCI standard only since 1987.
Did you know? The Romans named the Canary Islands after their four-legged inhabitants as “Islands of Dogs”, or Islas Canarias in Spanish.
Purchasing: Where to Buy Podenco Canarios?
For prospective owners in the UK interested in a Podenco Canario, finding a breeder can be challenging as the breed is not widely established. The most common and recommended route to find a Podenco Canario is through dedicated rescue organizations. Several charities and rescue groups in the UK specialize in bringing these dogs from Spain and the Canary Islands, where they are often abandoned after hunting season.
These organisations provide a crucial service by rehabilitating and rehoming Podencos, ensuring they are healthy and ready for a loving home. Searching for UK-based Podenco rescues online is the best way to connect with these groups and begin the adoption process.
Conclusion: An Extraordinary Dog That Needs Time
Acquiring a Podenco Canario requires careful consideration. Keeping one demands ample time and an advanced understanding of dogs.
While typical for the breed to be used for hunting, a dedicated non-hunting owner can also find joy with this dog.
Jana Schubert
Since I was a baby, I preferred to cuddle with our Persian cat rather than with my teddy bear. Later I got on my parents' nerves until I was allowed to adopt a horse. I have had many memorable experiences with my pets. And even though life with animals is not always easy, I wouldn't consider any other because pets touch my soul like nothing else. I even feel this magic when I write about them, and I hope some of it touches you as well.
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