Maneto
Spain, Scenthounds
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 30–35 cm
- Weight
- 8.5–11.5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Keen
- Lively
- Compact
- Hardy
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Maneto is a small, short-legged hunting dog from Andalusia, derived from the medium-sized Andalusian Hound. It has a short, smooth cinnamon or cinnamon-and-white coat and blunt, triangular ears. It is used on rabbit and gamebirds, and even retrieves ducks from water. The Spanish kennel club lists it as a vulnerable breed.
Size
- Size
- Small
- Height at shoulder
- 30–35 cm
- Adult weight
- 8.5–11.5 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
12–14 years
Most Manetos live 12–14 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
Little has been written about its temperament in English. As a working hound it is expected to be keen, lively and eager to hunt, and it is generally kept as a working dog in rural Spain.
- Keen
- Lively
- Compact
- Hardy
Food
For a typical 10 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 630 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 400 ml–600 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 dayAn active hunting dog that will need daily walks and opportunities to sniff and explore, ideally with scent games or field work.
Grooming & shedding
The short, smooth coat needs only a weekly brush.
Health
Like other hounds it may follow scents and wander, so practise recall and use secure areas. The breed is rare and almost unknown outside Spain, and health information is very limited.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary check
Not every Maneto is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The Maneto developed in Andalusia from short-legged Andalusian Hounds. Its name refers in Spanish to a defect or impediment in the legs, a nod to its short limbs. It has a standard with the Spanish kennel club, which in 2026 included it among sixteen vulnerable Spanish breeds.
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Scenthounds
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina de España; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Maneto 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 12–14 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.
Maneto FAQ
How big does a Maneto get?
Adult Manetos typically stand about 30–35 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 8.5–11.5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Manetos live?
Typically 12–14 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 Maneto 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 Maneto need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Manetos easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Manetos shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Manetos 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 Maneto live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Manetos have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published. Not every Maneto 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.