Overview
The Portuguese Pointer, or Perdigueiro Português, is an old Iberian pointing breed with a distinctive squared-off head and a soft, pleading expression. It is smaller and more compact than the English Pointer and works closer to the handler, quartering within range rather than ranging far.
Owners describe it as affectionate to the point of being a shadow. It is a gundog that wants to be with its person, which makes it easy to handle once it has accepted you. New walkers should expect a day or two of the dog looking for its owner.
Exercise and walking needs
Ninety minutes a day, with as much of it as possible in fields and rough ground. The dog will naturally hunt in a pattern in front of you; let it, on a long line if recall is unproven, and it will come home tired.
They are not frantic and settle well after a good outing. A couple of retrieves add a lot of value.
On the walk
- Recall: Generally good. This is a breed that works close and checks in. Birds and hares are the exception, so use a line until you know the dog.
- Pulling: Mild. A harness is still sensible for the sudden surge when a pheasant lifts.
- Other dogs: Friendly and easy. Fits well into mixed groups and rarely picks a fight.
- Weather: Short coat and little fat. A coat in the rain and a shorter route in hard frost.
- Separation: Some are anxious when away from their owner. Keep the first walks short and upbeat.
Tips for professional walkers
- Walk the first few sessions close to home and build distance as the dog relaxes with you.
- Carry a dummy for a handful of retrieves at the end; it burns energy and strengthens the bond.
- Use a whistle recall if the owner has one trained, and ask for the exact signals.
- Check the feet after stubble fields; the breed has thin skin on the pads.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog cope with being handled by someone other than you, and how long does it take to settle?
- Is it worked, and what whistle or voice cues does it know?
- Any history of skin sensitivity or allergies that the owner manages?