
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Active owners
- Apartments with daily walks
- People who want a small, sturdy dog
Watch out for
- Strong prey drive
- Barks to alert
- Independent
Daily care
Exercise: About an hour a day.
Grooming: Minimal.
Cold weather: Small and lean; needs a coat in deep cold.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
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- FoodSmall breed dog food
Formulas made for small breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate24-inch dog crate
A 24" crate fits most adult Portuguese Podengo Pequenos (up to about 13 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysDurable chew and fetch toys
Portuguese Podengo Pequenos have a lot of energy; tough rubber toys and balls hold up to hard play.
See options on Amazon - GroomingBristle or rubber grooming brush
A quick weekly brush keeps the coat clean and shiny.
See options on Amazon - WinterInsulated dog coat and boots
Portuguese Podengo Pequenos get cold quickly; a coat and boots make winter walks safer.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno near you
We're building a list of trusted Portuguese Podengo Pequeno rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Portuguese Podengo Pequeno page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
Take the breed quizSimilar breeds
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Small · 13–18 lb👪 Great family dogCavalier King Charles SpanielSweet, gentle and adaptable. Cavaliers are happy in an apartment or a house and get along with almost everyone.
Small · 17–23 lbBetter with adults or older kidsShiba InuClean, confident and independent, with a thick coat built for cold. Shibas fit apartments well but are stubborn and hard to train.