5 popular Spanish dog breeds
Spanish dog breeds have become especially known through animal protection. Often bred as hunters, guardians, or sprinters, they share similar breed characteristics. Most Spanish four-legged friends have a strong temperament and a high protective instinct. However, five dog breeds are more sociable and have become very popular with us.
Galgo Español
The Spanish greyhounds, also known as Galgos, are used exclusively in their home country for hunting and racing. Unfortunately, performance is often the only priority. However, these lovely furry friends can do much more.
They are sensitive, people-oriented, and social animals. They are suitable for active people who enjoy having their dog accompany them on hikes and bike rides, but also want to cuddle on the sofa in the evening. Since the Spanish dog breed is also good with children, it can be kept as a →family dog with proper engagement.
Perro de Agua Español (Spanish Water Dog)
The Spanish Water Dog is a world-renowned Spanish dog breed. The reason for this is that the four-legged friend is a true all-rounder. With its high level of understanding, it is wonderfully suited as a drug or cadaver detection dog and is also often used in the search for missing persons.
Its lovable and obedient nature also makes it a good therapy and companion dog. In the family, it is a welcome member.
Podenco Canario
Podenco is Podenco? Hardly! In Spain, two →Podencos are quite well known. The Podenco Canario is a fast, hunting-driven, and robust four-legged friend. Originally bred for hunting rabbits, you can engage in great dog sports like coursing or mantrailing with it.
Podencos have a high level of understanding and learn quickly what is allowed and what is not. They generally approach people and other four-legged friends in a social and open manner.
Those who run a lot must also eat a lot. As a true athlete, the Podenco relies on a high meat content in its diet, which provides important protein and enough energy for a sporty day. Our →Wet Food Extra Meat is for true meat connoisseurs and meets your dog's needs in a healthy way.
Do you want it extra fresh, natural, but still uncomplicated? With our →3-2-1 BARF concept, you can provide your four-legged friend with a fresh, balanced diet with a bite!
Podenco Ibicenco
Also belonging to one of the most well-known Spanish dog breeds is the Podenco Ibicenco. Its large upright ears and greyhound-like body immediately catch the eye of breed enthusiasts. This four-legged friend also offers sporting activities for body and mind. Depending on engagement and socialization, the friendly and open Podenco can be a family-friendly companion dog.
Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz
As a motivated and eager-to-learn terrier, the Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz is still a popular dog breed in Spain today. In the past, its main task was to free properties and ports from rats and mice.
Today, similar to the →Jack Russell, it is a clever sporty four-legged friend. Active people have a lot of fun with this breed, for example, in dog dancing, agility, or dog frisbee.
Ratonero Valenciano
Like all Ratoneros, the Valenciano is also a terrier bred for rodent hunting. However, the little Spaniard can do more than just chase rats. It has the qualities of a loyal and active companion dog.
The sociable four-legged friend enjoys being around people and can become a great family dog with the right engagement. Its love for digging and sniffing out mice is something the four-legged friend still wants to pursue. Preferably by the side of its humans on extensive walks in nature.
Why are there so many Spanish rescue dogs?
In addition to the uncontrolled breeding of street dogs, the "annual culling" of unfit sport and hunting dogs is a major problem in Spain. Of course, there are also animal-loving Spaniards who see their four-legged friend as a family member and love them sincerely. For others, however, Galgos and Co. are merely working animals, which are "sorted out" after their work is done or as soon as the desired performance is no longer achieved.
If you are interested in one of these dog breeds, it is helpful to inform yourself not only with breeders but also with trustworthy animal welfare organizations. Of course, a →dog from the shelter or a rescue dog is not for everyone, but perhaps there is a furry friend in Spain that suits you.
