Portuguese Pointing Dog
Also known as Perdigueiro Português · Chien d'Arret Portugais · Portugiesischer Vorstehhund · Perdiguero Portugués
Portugal, Continental Pointing Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 50–56 cm
- Weight
- —
- Life expectancy
- —
- Calm
- Devoted
- Steady
- Keen
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Portuguese Pointing Dog
The Portuguese Pointing Dog, or Perdigueiro Português, is a medium-sized pointer used in Portugal to find partridge and other game birds. It has a sturdy, compact body, a short coat in yellow or brown shades and folded ears. It is a patient, steady worker, and is rarely seen outside its homeland.
Temperament
Calm, devoted and steady, it is usually friendly with family. It is willing to work with its owner. Early socialisation and consistent training help.
Exercise
Needs 1 to 2 hours of daily exercise, with the chance to run in a secure area. Scent work suits it well.
Grooming
The short coat takes a weekly brush with a hound mitt. Look at the ears and between the toes after fieldwork.
Care & wellbeing
A willing working pointer, it is happiest with plenty of outdoor work. Keep it lean, rinse off mud and check the ears after rough cover.
Living with a Portuguese Pointing Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A Portuguese pointing dog, used to find partridge and other game birds over rough country. It is a compact, sturdy gundog. It is gentle and good-natured at home.
Health
The breed can be prone to
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Ear check
Not every Portuguese Pointing Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A commitment of many years
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Portuguese Pointing Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Portuguese Pointing Dog get?
Adult Portuguese Pointing Dogs typically stand about 50–56 cm at the shoulder. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How much exercise does a Portuguese Pointing Dog 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 Portuguese Pointing Dog need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Portuguese Pointing Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Portuguese Pointing Dogs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Portuguese Pointing Dogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Portuguese Pointing Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Portuguese Pointing Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections. Not every Portuguese Pointing Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Portugal
- Type
- Continental Pointing Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1955