The Andalusian Hound dog is a breed of dog which is similar to other Iberian breeds such as the Ibizan Hound, the Portuguese Podengo, the Podenco Canario and the Maneto. It is also known as Andalusian Podenco and Spanish: Podenco andaluz.
As the name suggests, the Andalusian Hound breed was originated from Andalusia, Spain. It is thought to most likely have descended from the European hunting dog. There had been some speculation that they may have been one of the ancient breeds depicted on cave paintings within the Iberian Peninsula thousands of years ago, but recent genetic studies have rendered this theory unlikely.
The Andalusian Hound dog breed was only officially recognized within Spain as recently as 1990 when a breed group was established. Due to the lack of distinctive unique characteristics and the similarities it shares with other breeds of dog, in particular with the Portuguese Podengo, the Andalusian Hound is not typically recognized in its own right outside of its native country.
The Andalusian Hound dogs were traditionally used as hunting dogs. Their senses of sight, hearing and smell have been keenly developed over the years, and they have the ability to endure the hot and dry conditions of the barren landscape from which they have originated.
The Andalusian Hound dogs are known for being successful and methodical hunters. The smaller variety of the Andalusian Hounds traditionally hunt hare or rabbits. While the large variety can be used to hunt wild boar. They will typically hunt in packs.[1]
Andalusian Hound Dog Characteristics
The Andalusian Hound dogs bear remarkable similarities to other Mediterranean dog breeds, including the Portuguese Podengo and the Ibizan Hound. The body of the Andalusian Hounds should be in proportion and well muscled, positioned on top of straight, lean legs.
They have pointed muzzle, and a long face. Their most noticeable feature is their large and erect ears, which will occupy most of the space above their head. Of course, these ears will serve the hounds well as they listen out for signs of life when hunting on vast, empty terrains.
As in the Portuguese Podengo, the Andalusian Hound comes in three sizes; small, medium and large. And each variety comes in different types of coat; smooth, long-haired and wire-haired. Their coat should be white, cinammon, or a combination of both colors, and they should not have an undercoat.
Small: Average height of the small variety is between 14 and 17 inches at the withers for males, and 13-16 inches for female. Average body weight of the mature dogs is between 5 and 11 kg.
Medium: Average height of the medium variety is between 17 and 21 inches at the withers for both males and females. Their average body weight is between 10 and 22 kg.
Large: Average height of the large variety is between 21 and 25 inches at the withers for males, and between 21 and 24 inches for females. Their average live body weight is between 21 and 33 kg.
Temperament
The Andalusian Hound dog is an intelligent breed and it can sometimes be a little over-energetic. Although these dogs typically do fine when they get enough exercise daily. They are playful and cheerful in the home and the smaller versions of the breed generally do well with children.
These dogs have a natural desire to please and do well with strong authority figure. They can be somewhat protective and suspicious of strangers, so they make good watchdogs.
The Andalusian Hound is known for being loyal to its family, and gentle in nature. They are celebrated for their intellect and can learn new tasks quickly. Their intelligence can make them more demanding, and they are prone to behavioral issues if under-exercised or under-stimulated mentally.
Naturally good guard dogs, they are attentive and observant, quick to alert their owner of the presence of a new person. They can be wary of people they do not know, and do best when in their owners’ presence, where they are most at ease. With a propensity to, at times, be submissive, a good relationship with a confident and encouraging owner is critical to get the most out of these sweet-natured hounds.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Andalusian Hound dog is between 10 and 12 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food. Depending on the variety each Andalusian Hound dog will require different amount of food. Consult with your vet for better recommendation.
Caring
As is true of most working dogs, the Andalusian Hound naturally thrives when outside and active. It is evident that in order to catch a fleeing hare, they must be agile and speedy. They love to run, and relish time spent off the lead. Known for their stamina, they are happy to continue running for long periods of time, so if left outside unsupervised, they must be fenced in.
Failure to provide these animals with adequate exercise can result in pet-up energy, that may be released in undesirable manners, such as through destructive behaviors. If kept as a pet, it is vital to provide the Andalusian Hound with adequate daily exercise, which should consist of long daily walks and various activities to keep its mind active; such as obedience training and agility classes.
Health
The Andalusian Hound dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include ear infections, eye conditions, and arthritis. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Andalusian Hound |
| Other Names | Andalusian Podenco and Spanish: Podenco andaluz |
| Breed Size | 3 varieties; small medum and large |
| Height | Small: 14 to 17 inches at the withers for males and 13 to 16 inches for females. Medium: 17 to 21 inches at the withers for both males and females. Large: 21 to 25 inches at the withers for male, and 21 to 24 inches for the females. |
| Weight | Small: 5 to 11 kg Medium: 10 to 22 kg Large: 21 to 33 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | White, cinammon, or a combination of both colors |
| Lifespan | Between 10 and 12 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | Spain |
