Guicho
Also known as Quisquelo · Can Guicho · Coeillero
Spain, Sighthounds and lurchers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 30–42 cm
- Weight
- 6–10 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Alert
- Keen hunter
- Lightweight
- Rare
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Guicho is a small Galician warren hound, used mainly for hunting rabbits in rough, hilly country. It is light and slender, with coats ranging from sand to chocolate, sable, or two or three colours. It remains rare and is almost unknown outside north-western Spain.
Size
- Size
- Small
- Height at shoulder
- 30–42 cm
- Adult weight
- 6–10 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most Guichos live 12–15 years. Like other small dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 9, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
Published information on its temperament is limited. Like other small warren hounds it is bred to work keenly on scent and sight, so expect a lively, alert dog with a strong hunting drive.
- Alert
- Keen hunter
- Lightweight
- Rare
Food
For a typical 8 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 530 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 320 ml–480 ml
- a day, from all sources
- Small dogs burn energy quickly — two or three measured meals a day suit most adults, and toy breeds shouldn't go long without food.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayA working hunting dog needs plenty of daily exercise and chances to use its nose. Secure areas are wise, as small game will be very tempting.
Grooming & shedding
Grooming needs appear modest; a weekly brush and routine checks of feet and ears after outings should be enough.
Health
Because so few dogs exist, anyone interested should contact the Galician breed club, which keeps the stud-book. Recall training and secure fencing matter for a dog bred to chase rabbits. There is very little published health information for this breed.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
Not every Guicho is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The Guicho is one of four traditional Galician dog breeds and is found mostly in the provinces of Ourense and Pontevedra. It was close to dying out before the Xunta de Galicia recognised it in April 2001, followed by national recognition by royal decree the same year, when a stud-book was opened. A 2024 census in two Pontevedra districts counted just over 300 dogs.
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Sighthounds and lurchers
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture and the Xunta de Galicia; not recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina de España, FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Guicho right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Guicho FAQ
How big does a Guicho get?
Adult Guichos typically stand about 30–42 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 6–10 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Guichos live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Guicho need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Guicho need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Guichos easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Guichos shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Guichos good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Guicho live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Guichos have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published. Not every Guicho is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.