History Of The Hound Dogs: How Many Types Exist
Hound dogs are a type of hunting breed and are known as one of the oldest. There are Roman coins dating from the 5th century BC in which images of these dogs appear. However, it is thought that the podencos could have existed long before those dates.
Old paintings are known in which representations of stylized dogs with long snouts and very erect ears emerge, and that perfectly resemble today’s hound dogs.
Some dog experts claim that their appearance slightly resembles the image of the Egyptian god Anubis. This leads them to believe that the hound breed may have been transported in boats by the Phoenicians some millennia ago.
Their tracking and hunting skills have made them ideal companions for many people who are dedicated to this sport. A hound possesses innate skills to capture small mammals such as hares and excels in difficult terrain for other dogs.
They also have an enviable tenacity and resistance to follow trails: one of the most well-known characteristics is the acute development of their senses.
How many types of podenco dogs are there?
These beautiful specimens have such natural elegance that some of their followers classify them as the most sublime breed in the animal world. It is estimated that having grown up in rural environments without being able to mix with the podenco dogs of other countries, but with dogs of other breeds, was what gave way to the various types that exist today.
However, all the specimens that fall under the characteristics of the podencos share certain traits with each other. The firm musculature, its slenderness, the erect ears and its fine snout are some of the genetic coincidences that still remain.
Based on the size of their legs and the color of their fur, an expert could distinguish the type of hound they are observing. Here are the best known ones:
Andalusian hound
It has its origins in southern Spain and the line is thought to have evolved from its Phoenician ancestors brought across the Mediterranean. This lineage is subdivided according to size and coat, so small, medium and large Andalusian hounds can be identified.
Additionally, from the Andalusian breed, the maneto hound, with slightly shorter legs, and the bell hound, of imposing size and with strong white fur, have been derived.
Ibizan Hound
This is one of the most recognized and sought-after strains of hound dogs by hunting lovers. They stand out for their agility and intelligence, and their best weapon is their sense of sight : this specimen can follow the prey on almost any terrain. There are those who describe their ears as a pair of antennae to which nothing escapes them.
Canary hound
This type of hound is thought to have been brought to Gran Canaria and Tenerife by the Phoenicians, like its Andalusian cousin. However, there are versions that wield the possibility that his transfer to the area was due to the Carthaginians or the Greeks.
This breed has a slightly longer coat than those mentioned above and is usually brown or reddish in color. It is a medium-sized dog that excels in hunting big game.
Podenco portuguese
As its name indicates, this lineage reached the north of Portugal. It is said to be a mixture of several breeds and that for this reason it can be found in a variety of sizes.
Their abilities are not only evidenced in small game hunting, but it is feared that in the future they will disappear, since less quantities of this beautiful canine are bred every day.
Other characteristics of podenco dogs
The hunting instinct of this breed is very strong, so it is not recommended as a companion dog. However, these dogs are very loyal and affectionate. They love to go for a run and are often obsessed with following a trail for no apparent reason.
Their intelligence is evident when training them, although they are easily distracted, so it is reasonable that they be trained by someone experienced. They are also very social pets and, although they are restless, they often enjoy long and deep naps during the day.
