Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Quick Summary
Versatile, athletic companions best suited for active owners. Combines independence with affection, requiring moderate exercise and training commitment.
Contents
Weight Range
9-13 lbs
♂ Male: 9-13 lbs
♀ Female: 9-13 lbs
Height Range
20-30 inches
♂ Male: 8-12"
♀ Female: 8-12"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Hound Group
Originally bred for Developed in Portugal during medieval times as skilled rabbit hunters and ratters
Popularity
#154
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 8"-12" |
| Female Height | 8"-12" |
| Male Weight | 9-13 lbs |
| Female Weight | 9-13 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$1500), supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover quality food, routine vet care, and preventative medications. Consider pet insurance for unexpected health issues.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Lively and alert with a strong hunting instinct. These intelligent dogs display independent thinking while maintaining affection for their families. Social and playful but may show reserve with strangers.
Social Needs
Moderately social dogs requiring regular family interaction. Generally good with other dogs but may chase smaller pets. Can tolerate short periods alone with proper training and enrichment.
Breed Overview
Portuguese Podengo Pequenos are small, agile hounds with distinctive triangular ears and alert expressions. Their compact bodies showcase graceful lines and remarkable athleticism. Available in both smooth and wire-coated varieties, these dogs exhibit a proud carriage and lively demeanor. Their almond-shaped eyes convey intelligence and curiosity, while their wedge-shaped heads reflect their keen hunting heritage.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Adaptable to various living situations
- ✓ Low grooming needs
- ✓ Excellent watchdog
- ✓ Affectionate with family
Cons
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ May be vocal
- ✗ Requires secure fencing
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Playful, Charming, Lively |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 45-60 minutes of daily exercise through brisk walks, play sessions, and agility activities. These energetic dogs thrive with varied exercise routines including scent work and chase games, maintaining moderate to high intensity levels.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for portion control due to their small size. Consider age-specific formulas and maintain consistent feeding schedule.
Feed 1-1.5 cups of premium dry dog food daily, split into two meals. Choose age-appropriate formulas rich in protein. Monitor weight closely as small breeds can easily become overweight.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Ideal for homes with secure yards. Tolerates various climates but prefers moderate temperatures with protection from extreme weather.
Minimum space requirements are modest, but secure outdoor areas are beneficial. Adapts well to apartment living with adequate exercise. Needs safe containment due to hunting instincts.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Hailing from Portugal's rugged terrain, these ancient sighthounds served as skilled rabbit hunters for centuries. Their development focused on creating an agile, hardy breed capable of navigating challenging landscapes.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Portugal during medieval times as skilled rabbit hunters and ratters. These nimble dogs excelled in pursuing prey through rocky terrain and dense vegetation.
Fun Fact
These ancient hunters were so valued in Portugal that they were often given as gifts to nobility.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Weekly grooming needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain health.