Podenco Andaluz
Also known as Andalusian Hound · Andalusian Podenco · Andalusian Warren Hound
Spain, Sighthounds and lurchers
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 32–64 cm
- Weight
- 5–33 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Agile
- Affectionate
- Tenacious
- Alert
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Podenco Andaluz is a lean, agile hunting dog from Andalusia in southern Spain. It comes in three sizes and three coat types — smooth, wire-haired and long-haired — giving nine varieties in all. Colours range from white to deep red. Like other podencos it hunts using sight, scent and hearing together.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 32–64 cm
- Adult weight
- 5–33 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 Podenco Andaluzs live 12–14 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, 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
Podencos are lively and affectionate, loyal to their family but wary of strangers. They are keen, methodical hunters with plenty of stamina and a strong prey drive.
- Agile
- Affectionate
- Tenacious
- Alert
Food
For a typical 19 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,020 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 760 ml–1.1 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- 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 dayThese are athletic dogs that need a lot of exercise, including chances to run in secure areas. Scent work and lure coursing suit them well.
Grooming & shedding
Smooth coats need very little care; wire and long coats need weekly brushing. Check for grass seeds and ticks after walks.
Health
A strong hunting instinct means good recall training, secure fencing and caution with small pets. Many podencos in Spain are working dogs, and rescues from Spain are fairly common elsewhere in Europe. The Spanish kennel club lists the breed as vulnerable. See a vet for cuts and strains after running.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health research has been published
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary health check
Not every Podenco Andaluz is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The Podenco Andaluz is a traditional warren hound, but its early history is not well recorded. Hunters used it for rabbits, hare, deer and boar, alone, in pairs or in large packs. Larger dogs also worked as farm watchdogs and smaller ones as ratters. The Spanish kennel club recognised it in 1992, and the government published an official standard in 2001.
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Sighthounds and lurchers
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina de España and Germany's VDH; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Podenco Andaluz right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- 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.
Podenco Andaluz FAQ
How big does a Podenco Andaluz get?
Adult Podenco Andaluzs typically stand about 32–64 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 5–33 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Podenco Andaluzs 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 Podenco Andaluz 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 Podenco Andaluz need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Podenco Andaluzs easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Podenco Andaluzs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Podenco Andaluzs 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 Podenco Andaluz live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Podenco Andaluzs have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health research has been published. Not every Podenco Andaluz 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.