Hound group
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
A tiny, tireless Portuguese rabbit hunter with big ears and bigger attitude.
The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a small, primitive hunting hound that uses sight, scent and hearing. It is lively, playful and affectionate, but independent and keen to chase anything small.
- Height
- 8–12 in20–30 cm
- Weight
- 9–13 lb4–6 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Size
- Small
- Group
- Hound
- Origin
- Portugal
Coat: Smooth (short) or wire (rough) coat. Colours: Yellow, Fawn, With or without white markings.
At a glance
Ratings describe typical dogs of the breed on a 1–5 scale. Individual dogs vary with lines, upbringing and training.
Temperament
Podengos are cheerful, alert and affectionate with their families. They are playful and curious, and good watchdogs.
They are independent, strong-willed hunters with high prey drive. Recall is difficult, and they may dig or escape.
Living with a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Exercise
About an hour of daily exercise, including walks and games. Use a lead or secure area.
Grooming
Minimal: weekly brushing; wire coats need occasional stripping.
Training
Clever but independent; keep training short, fun and food-based.
Kids & other pets
Good with children and usually with other dogs. Unsafe with rodents, rabbits and often cats — the hunting instinct is strong.
Time alone
Tolerates moderate alone time but may bark or dig when bored.
Home fit
Adapts well to apartments and smaller homes when daily needs are met.
Is a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno right for you?
Take the Breed Fit quiz to see how a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno matches your home, schedule and tolerance for shedding, barking and exercise — or find out which breed matches your personality with Dogsona.
Health
With good breeding and care, a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno typically lives 12–15 years. These are the conditions most associated with the breed — not a prediction for any individual dog.
Patellar luxation
Loose kneecaps occur in small breeds; watch for skipping.
Dental disease
Small jaws are prone to tartar build-up; brush regularly.
Eye disease
Inherited eye conditions occur occasionally; eye exams help.
Ask a breeder for
- Patella evaluation
- Eye examination
- Hip evaluation
Sources: OFA health testing guidance: Portuguese Podengo Pequeno; American Portuguese Podengo Pequenos Club. This is general information, not veterinary advice — talk to your vet about your own dog.
Cost to own
After the first year, expect roughly $1,000–$2,000 a year for food, routine vet care, preventives, insurance and supplies (US estimate).
- Pet insurance for a puppy typically runs $30–$60 a month; premiums rise with age and breed risk.
History
Podengos have hunted in Portugal for centuries; the Pequeno (small) variety flushed rabbits from dense undergrowth and rocky terrain. Larger Medio and Grande varieties also exist.
Podengos may have travelled on Portuguese ships to control rats. The AKC recognised the Pequeno in 2013.
Did you know?
- The Podengo comes in three sizes in Portugal: Pequeno, Medio and Grande.
- Podengos hunt using sight, scent and hearing together.
- Both smooth and wire coats can appear in the same litter.
Library guides for Portuguese Podengo Pequeno owners
Training
Come (Recall)
High chase drive makes a reliable recall essential.
Exercise & Play
Dog Walking
Getting daily walks right for a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno.
Grooming
Nail Clipping
Every dog needs regular nail care.
New Dog Owners
How to find a reputable dog breeder
What to ask a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno breeder about health screening.
New Dog Owners
The real cost of a puppy: what to budget before you bring one home
Budget for the first year and beyond.
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
- Are Podengos good apartment dogs?
- They can be, with enough exercise and secure outings.
- Do Podengos shed?
- Lightly. Both coats are easy to care for.
- Are Podengos good with cats?
- Only if raised with them; their prey drive is strong.