The Podenco,a loyal companion
Out of the 337 different races certified as such and divided into 10 different categories by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale- freely translated, the International Kennel Federation- among dogs worldwide, no less than 33 are of Spanish origin. Think of famous names such as ‘our’ Galgo (greyhound), the Mastín of the Pyrenees, the Valencian Ratter, the Spanish Waterdog… Obviously we lack the space here to describe this large diversity in detail. This article therefore limits itself to the Podenco.
Podenco is, however, a (first) name shared by at least six different breeds of hounds, four of which have their origin in Spain: the Andalusian, the Ibicenco, the Canarian, and the Valencian. The remaining two come from abroad: the Portuguese and the Sicilian Cirneco Dell Etna. This last one also happens to be the smallest. The smallest podencos measure between 35 en 42cm for the males and between 32 and 41cm for the bitches. The biggest grow to a maximum of 64cm as far as the males are concerned and 61cms for the bitches. Some sources also distinguish a seventh species in the so-called Egyptian ‘Pharaoh’s dogs’.
Apart from their size they obviously possess other features that allow us to recognise them as such. They have a long, almost conical head with long ears, dark amber eyes, a flesh-coloured nose, strong jaws and thin lips. The Royal Spanish Canine Society describes cinnamon, chocolate brown, black and white among others as their colours. Those of ‘medium size’ weigh approximately 16 kgs, on average they have a slim and muscular build.
While looks certainly count, the true measure of a dog is of course its personality. Podencos are true protectors and among the most loyal companions as far as the tightness of their bond with their owner is concerned. They are true pack animals. They are very cheerful, perhaps a little ‘easily distracted’, as nothing gives them more joy than chasing another animal or going on long walks.
They also effortlessly adapt to any environment, no matter how rough. So it should not come as a surprise that these dogs were originally (and still are) bred for the rabbit hunt. Human beings, however, need not fear : they are very family friendly, submissive and playful, and barely bark.
These traits also turn this race into an excellent choice for organisations dedicated to providing therapy to the elderly or people with reduced mobility.
Despite these good characteristics they remain a less popular breed, that is often even abandoned. In the province of Alicante , however, people open their hearts to them. In Alcoy, Biar, Jávea and Alicante itself, among other places, you can find organisations dedicated to these race and other races of dogs . Do not wait for a 21st of July (International Dogs’ Day) or a 16th of August (Saint Roch, patron of these animals and their owners) to give a Podenco a worthy home. And give yourself at the same time the loving home that you also deserve.