Valdueza
Also known as Perro Montero Valdueza · Montero Valdueza
Spain, Scenthounds
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 66–75 cm
- Weight
- 30–45 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–13 yrs
- Strong
- Determined
- Pack-oriented
- Hardy
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Valdueza is a big, rough-coated Spanish pack hound bred for driving game in mountainous country. It is usually white or pale waxen in colour, sometimes with light patches, and stands tall and strong. It is a modern breed, created in the twentieth century for the Spanish style of big-game hunt known as the montería.
Size
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 66–75 cm
- Adult weight
- 30–45 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
10–13 years
Most Valduezas live 10–13 years. Like other large dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 7, 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
It was bred to work in a pack, so it is generally used to living alongside other dogs. Little has been published about its behaviour as a pet, but hounds of this type tend to be determined, independent hunters with a strong drive to follow game.
- Strong
- Determined
- Pack-oriented
- Hardy
Food
For a typical 37.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,700 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1.5 L–2.3 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- 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 dayThis is a hound made for long days on rough mountain slopes, so it needs a great deal of exercise. It is happiest when working or running in safe, open areas.
Grooming & shedding
The rough coat with undercoat needs brushing once or twice a week, and checks for burrs, ticks and cuts after a day outdoors.
Health
The Valdueza is rare, almost all dogs are in Spain, and the national kennel club lists it as vulnerable. It is a working pack hound rather than a typical family pet. Secure fencing and good recall training are important. See a vet for injuries after hunting, lameness or ear problems.
The breed can be prone to
- Very little breed-specific health information is available
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
Not every Valdueza is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Breeding began in the 1940s under the eleventh Marquess of Valdueza and was carried on by his son. The aim was a hound for mountain hunting in areas such as the Montes de Toledo and the Sierra Morena. Large rough-haired Podenco Andaluz dogs were crossed with lighter Mastín Extremeño, and some Griffon Vendéen blood was added later. The Spanish kennel club listed it as an ethnic group in 2014, and the government recognised it as a native breed in 2020.
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Scenthounds
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture and the Real Sociedad Canina de España; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Valdueza 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
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–13 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.
Valdueza FAQ
How big does a Valdueza get?
Adult Valduezas typically stand about 66–75 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 30–45 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Valduezas live?
Typically 10–13 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 Valdueza 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 Valdueza need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Valduezas easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Valduezas shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Valduezas 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 Valdueza live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Valduezas have?
The breed can be prone to very little breed-specific health information is available. Not every Valdueza 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.