The standard calls for a rustic appearance without excessive sculpting and clipping however, it is as important not to confuse rustic with a dirty, untidy appearance. When seen in the conformation ring, remember moderation is good. This structure makes them a formidable competitor in Agility. Their little hind legs, with just enough muscling are propelling themselves forward like they are flying. Being shorter to the ground than their cousins the Medio and Grande, the Pequenos reply on a little extra body length to maneuver through the field and brush, able to make the twisting turns as fast as the rabbit. It is not until you have seen them in action do your really appreciate what this hunting dog would look like. Height is 50/50, but we cannot forget why it is important for the Pequeno to be 20% longer then tall. This is a dog bred to chase and the specific proportions are worth noting.
The Portuguese breeders/hunters have done fabulous job in maintaining breed function from the smallest to the tallest of the Pequeno and in many cases, have shared their wealth of knowledge with the next generation of breeders in many different countries. Because they are used small packs it was important in the development of the Pequeno to have a range in size from 8-12 inches without losing the type and function of the breed. They are a fearless little dog with a high-pitched bark called the maticar that sounds off when they are excited. They need to have stamina and endurance to be out in the field and the trainability to return to the hunter with their quarry. It searches for rabbits in holes, dense shrubs and on/over rocks going into crevices to flush out the rabbits. The Pequeno (smallest of three sizes) is primarily used as a rabbit hunting dog in its native Portugal. It is no different for the breeders of the Portuguese Podengo Pequenos. We have all heard the term used before, “form follows function” and when planning our next generation of dogs’, it is what we all keep in mind, right? Have you asked yourself “Is the dog I am showing in the conformation ring capable of performing the function of the breed as it was intended?”
From the February 2019 Issue of ShowSight.
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