Podencos are a group of hounds with a very long history. Their origins may date as far back as ancient Egyptian times. In Spain they are commonly used for hunting rabbits. The name Podenco means ‘Hound’ in Spanish.
While all of Podenco types share common characteristics, they can vary greatly in size and appearance. They are more robust and suited to hunting rougher terrain than the other commonly used Spanish hunting dog; the Galgo. They are frequently abused, neglected and abandoned. They often learn to survive on the street or are surrendered to Perreras.
Regardless of the type of Podenco, you can expect them to be a very high-energy dog that develops a close bond with their family. They can be goofy and playful and sometimes a touch mischievous. Their large ears give them a very distinctive appearance and their stamina and hunting roots mean that they are a dog that needs a lot of exercise and stimulation. Their athleticism means that they often enjoy taking part in dog sports like agility or canicross (competitive running with your dog). Although they can enjoy lots of snuggles with their owners, they are not known for being couch potatoes like their Greyhound or Galgo relatives.
The Podenco hunting background means that they can have a very high prey drive and you may need to work hard on achieving a rock-solid recall. If you have a cat in the household, careful introductions may be required and other small furries will need to be kept well secured. Podencos are usually very social with other dogs and often live well in a multi-dog household. They can sometimes have a stubborn, independent streak, but they do respond well to positive reinforcement training. You may just require a little more patience than with, say, an eager-to-please Labrador!
Podencos are generally regarded as being hardy, healthy and robust dogs. If they have spent some of their lives on the streets or had to fight for their food, you may find that they can be prone to scavenging, which can lead to tummy upsets. Feeding them from interactive treat toys and slow feeders can help to make them feel fuller and it also helps to keep them stimulated.
Here are two beautiful examples, with the little pink noses I cannot help but adore.
Max – Podenco
DOB – 6/6/19
A stunning boy, mainly white in colour with long legs.
Alma – Podenco
Approx 1 year old
A very gentle sweet girl who walks well and loves a fuss.
A Happy Ending
Our old boy Chesse, (11 years of age), spent too many years in the shelter and was featured a couple of times here, has a new home in Sweden. We are all over the moon for him. He looks well at home on his first day.
We accept donations in Euros and Sterling. Any donation, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated.
PayPal – losinfiernosdogs@gmail.com
Please use the Friends And Family Option (very important) so that we get the full donation.
For details of available dogs please contact the shelter via Facebook Los Infiernos Protectora Supporters, or by email at losinfiernosdogs@gmail.com
Dog walkers are always needed on Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday mornings from 9am-1pm.