Description:

Description There are three sizes of Podengo Portugueso: Grande (large), Medio (medium) and Pequeno (small). The Medio Podengo Portugueso is a moderately-sized sighthound type with a well-proportioned head, flat skull and pronounced stop. The nose is usually brown, but may be black. The ears are large, naturally upright, triangular and highly mobile, turning forward to catch sound. The muzzle is straight. The chest is muscular and prominent. The small, oblique eyes are brown to honey in color. The cat-like feet have well arched toes with hard, strong pads. The back line only has a slight arch. The neck is strong and muscular without dewlap. When the dog is calm the tail hangs down, when the dog is excited or in motion the tail is horizontal. The coat comes in two varieties: smooth and wirehaired. The smooth coat is hard and longer than that of most sighthounds. The wirehaired coat is medium-long, shaggy and coarse. Colors may include yellow, fawn, or black with white markings. Temperament The Podengo Portugueso Medio is probably the fastest of three Podengos. It is an intelligent, lively dog. Courageous and a good watchdog. Affectionate, making good family companions. Many Portuguese owners favor the Medio over both of its brothers, the Grande and Pequeno because they feel its size is ideal - not too big and not too small. Regardless of its size, the Medio is a wonderful companion dog and super-efficient hunter. Socialize this breed at an early age and be sure to teach it simple obedience like walking on a leash. They need a firm, but calm, confident, consistent handler. Proper canine to human communication is essential. Height, Weight Height: Small - 8-12 inches (20-31 cm.) Height: Medium - 15-22 inches (39-56 cm.) Height: Large 22-27 inches (55-70 cm.) Weight: Small - 9-13 pounds (4-6 kg.) Weight: Medium - 35-44 pounds (16-20 kg.) Weight: Large 44-66 pounds (20-30 kg.) Health Problems A very healthy breed. Because this breed has had relatively limited intervention by humans in the Podengo"s breeding, it has a low incidence of known inherited defects or diseases. Living Conditions The Podengo Portugueso Medio is not recommended for apartment life. They are well-suited for hot sunny climates and can live and sleep outdoors so long as they have adequate shelter. Exercise This fast and very active breed needs a lot of daily exercise, including a daily, long, brisk walk or jog. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog"s mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Life Expectancy About 12-14 years.