The Podenco Canario is a dog with an Egyptian background, developed in the Canary Islands. Classified by many as a sighthound, technically this breed hunts by sight, sound and scent. FCI instead classifies the breed as a primitive hunting dog. It was primarily used to hunt rabbit and ferrets in packs of several hounds, and still is used for this purpose today. In the right home, this breed can form a close bond with his owner and become an affectionate family pet. Except when hunting or alerting to a visitor, the Podenco Canario is generally a quiet breed.
Podenco Canarios are supposed to be skinny, and are built for speed. This does not meant the dog is starving! A healthy hound will look naturally thin despite eating a normal amount. Don’t let his appearance trick you into thinking he is delicate, however, for he was built to be sturdy during the hunt. Besides being very quick, he is also unmistakably agile and able to leap great distances/heights. All of these features come together to form this successful hunter. In the Canary Islands there are two sizes, although only the larger size is recognized here in America (via the UKC) and in most other countries. Generally speaking, this is a slim yet large breed.
Despite his similar appearance to other breeds (primarily the Ibizan Hound and other Podenco breeds both recognized and unrecognized in America), the Podenco Canario is a distinct breed with specific features. The always-smooth coat comes in either red, white or a combination of the two colors. The red can come in many different shades. The head of this dog should be longer than it is wide, set atop a long graceful neck and sporting two large naturally erect ears.
Podenco Canarios do best with active people who are willing to give these energetic dogs the exercise that they need. They do need daily activity so that they don’t become bored or even destructive. Activities that also incorporate mental challenges as well are particularly well-suited to this breed. Podenco Canarios are extremely enthusiastic hunters and will take off in an instant if they see something to chase, often barking in a repetitive yet excited fashion throughout the whole run! This means they really need to be kept in fenced areas or on leash. While training a good recall can help, depending upon the dog and the situation it isn’t realistic to rely on a recall if a distraction is very high. Take note that some members of the breed can’t even live with small animals such as cats without wanting to chase.
When it comes to training, the Podenco Canario can be stubborn and independent. Although intelligent, this breed was utilized more for independent hunting than working with people. Furthermore he tends to be sensitive so an owner must make sure to keep the training upbeat without letting go of the general house rules. He is not recommended for novice dog owners. Make sure, as well, to socialize him early on to prevent overly shy behavior.
The Podenco Canario does enjoy playing and can delight in romping with children, although he should only be kept in households with older and more mature kids. He doesn’t respond well to rough treatment and although is ordinarily gentle, he may take offense to kids that he deems as frightening. With strangers, he tends toward being aloof (although outright aggression isn’t normally seen). This generally isn’t a super-social extrovert of a dog – he may be a better companion for a similarly introverted owner.
Unfortunately, every year a number of Podenco Canarios are abandoned in Spain after the hunting season has ended. As such there are a few rescue organizations seeking to place these displaced hunters in homes around the world. A prospective owner can end up with a great dog from one of these organizations, however it is vital to do your homework – both on the organization as well as the breed itself! Getting any dog is a big commitment, but obtaining a hunting dog of this breed requires the right person to ensure a good match!
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