Portuguese Pointing Dog
Summary
The Perdigueiro Português is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with historical descriptions dating back to the 12th century in medieval Portuguese texts. Developed as a falconry assistant and later as a pointing dog for partridge hunting (perdiz = perdigueiro), it was imported to Great Britain in the 18th century where it influenced the creation of the English Pointer. The breed maintained its ancestral working characteristics through centuries of natural selection in Portugal, being officially recognized by the Portuguese Kennel Club in 1938.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 52–60 cm
- Height (female)
- 48–56 cm
- Weight (male)
- 16–27 kg
- Weight (female)
- 16–22 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, and coarse; velvety on the ears and muzzle; tail frequently docked
- Common Colors
- Yellow-brown (honey-yellow), brown, white and brown, white and yellow
Temperament & Personality
The Perdigueiro Português is described in the FCI standard as "extremely kind and affectionate, robust, capable of great endurance and devotion." It is a dog of calm and curious character, very sociable and owner-oriented. It works very closely with the hunter — more so than most other breeds in the group — reflecting centuries of selection for partnership with falcons and hunters. It is generally good with children and other animals.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate to high
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 6–8 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Ear infections
- Elbow dysplasia
- Hip dysplasia
- Recommended Health Tests
- Eye examination
- Genetic screening (hyperuricosuria, degenerative myelopathy)
- Orthopedic evaluation
- Thyroid test
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
