Overview
The Podenco Canario is the hunting dog of the Canary Islands, built to find rabbits in volcanic scrub and run them down over sharp rock. It is a medium, lean hound with a short tan or red coat, large erect ears and a long muzzle. It hunts by sight, scent and hearing, and it is relentless.
In Britain they come almost entirely through rescue. Many have had hard lives and some arrive shut down. Give them a quiet routine and they open up into affectionate, sensitive dogs that bond deeply with their walkers.
Exercise and walking needs
Around ninety minutes a day for a fit adult. They were bred to work in heat for hours, so stamina is not an issue; the question is finding safe places to burn it. A secure field is ideal.
On the lead they are easy to walk at a brisk pace. A hill or two does no harm at all.
On the walk
- Recall: Low priority for this breed. The owner may have a reliable one, but do not assume it. Long line until you have seen it yourself.
- Pulling: Light most of the time. The lunge at a rabbit is sudden and extremely fast; brace before the dog sees it.
- Other dogs: Pack hunters by background, so generally sociable with other hounds and calm dogs. Watch for chase behaviour towards small fluffy dogs.
- Cold: Thin skin and almost no undercoat. A fleece or waterproof coat is needed from autumn to spring.
- Noise: Many are noise sensitive. Fireworks season, shooting and bin lorries can all be a problem. Pick quiet routes.
Tips for professional walkers
- Use a wide martingale or a well-fitted harness; the narrow head slips a standard collar.
- Bring a coat and keep the walk brisk in cold weather so the dog stays warm.
- Hold the lead firmly near hedgerows, warrens and long grass.
- Say little and move calmly. A nervous Podenco reads body language more than words.
What to ask the owner
- What is the dog's history, and are there particular triggers you should avoid?
- Does it have a reliable recall anywhere, and if so where was that tested?
- Does the dog wear a coat, and does it have any skin sensitivity?