Portuguese Podengo health: what owners should know

The Portuguese Podengo is a hardy, natural breed with relatively few known inherited problems, and many live 12 to 15 years. Issues reported in the breed include luxating patellas and dental disease in Pequenos, hip dysplasia in the larger sizes, and occasional eye conditions. Because numbers outside Portugal are small, health data is limited.

Good breeders check knees and hips, have eyes examined and are open about the health of related dogs. At home, keep your dog lean, stay on top of dental care and limit heavy jumping in young dogs. See a vet for persistent limping, skipping on a hind leg, cloudy or painful eyes, bad breath with red gums, or any sudden change in energy or appetite.