Here you will find some information about Galgos and Podencos; their temperaments, history and needs. We hope this helps you to make an informed decision on whether these hounds would make a suitable member of you family.
THE GALGO
The Galgo Español (Spanish Galgo) or Spanish Greyhound is an ancient breed of dog, specifically a member of the sighthound family. One theory is that the Galgo was named for the Gauls, who inhabited the Iberian Peninsula 400–600 B.C.E. The Galgo breed was probably a result of the dogs brought by the Gauls on their migration through the peninsula mixed with dogs brought by traders who did business with the Gauls. Other theories believe they likely originated from ancient Egypt as they, or hounds very similar to them, are depicted in the sculptures and paintings of the ancient Egyptians. Certainly they are a much older breed than the northern European sighthounds such as Greyhounds, Wolfhounds and Deerhounds.
For more details on the appearance and characteristics of Galgos please go here.
Despite being called a “Spanish Greyhound”, the Galgo is not truly a Greyhound. The lineages of the two breeds are different. However, in the last century or so, some breeders have cross-bred Galgos and Greyhounds in order to produce faster Galgos.
Galgos are unfortunately bred in large numbers by unscrupulous breeders, who then kill them in the most barbaric ways possible- hanging, burning, battering, shooting, or throwing them from a moving car. It is estimated that about 50,000 are killed each year, although some sources say 100,000 is the more likely number. (sourceWikipedia)
Temperament and needs
Galgos have a very similar nature to Greyhounds. They are calm, gentle and laid back; happy to sleep their day away on their backs on a sofa. Unlike most Greyhounds, more than 90% of Galgos can be considered cat-friendly and are therefore an ideal choice for the hound lover who also owns cats. Almost all Galgos are also friendly towards other dogs and small dogs.
Galgos are also very good with children, being calm in the house there is less risk of a child being knocked over or jumped on than a more excitable breed. They are very gentle and tolerate the often over-enthusiastic attentions of children with no risk of retaliation from the dog.
Thats not to say that they never get excited mind you 🙂 Galgos, like all hounds; love to run and so they need a safe space to run free, off-lead. Like their Greyhound cousins, they are sprinters and so two short walks of around 30 minutes per day is sufficient for their exercise needs; they don’t need hours and miles of walking like many popular breeds.
Galgos, like some of the other sighthound breeds are one of the longest lived of all large breeds of dog. You can expect your Galgo to live around 14 years. Galgos also suffer from few congenital or “breed specific” diseases which often occur in pedigree dogs due to in-breeding over time. You can therefore expect your Galgo to live a long and healthy life. This is one fact that makes it even more sad to know that most Galgos in Spain only reach the age of 2-4 😦
The needs of your particular Galgo will vary depending on the quality of life it had in Spain, and of course on how cruelly it was treated. The shelters which care for the Galgos before they are homed do their best to evaluate the character and fears of each dog so that their new families are as well informed as possible as to how best to settle in their new family member. Remember the physical scars of their abuse may heal quickly, but their emotional and mental scars will take much longer to heal. Anyone wanting to adopt a Galgo must appreciate this and work with kindness and patience on the continued rehabilitation of their hound.
THE PODENCO
The Podenco is an elegant and agile breed with an athletic and attractive outline. Though graceful in appearance is a rugged and hardy breed. Its large upright ears – a hallmark of the breed – are broad at the base and frame a long and elegant head and long neck.
The Ibizan Hound is an elegant and agile breed with an athletic and attractive outline. Though graceful in appearance is a rugged and hardy breed. Its large upright ears – a hallmark of the breed – are broad at the base and frame a long and elegant head. The neck is long and lean.
Podencos come in both smooth and wire coated varieties and there are also several smaller breeds such as the Podenco Andaluz; a small and more robust breed; and the Canarian Podenco. All of the varieties are either red or white, or a combination of red and white. The eyes of a Podenco are a striking amber color and have an alert and intelligent expression.
Temperament and needs
All Podencos are very intelligent, active, and engaging by nature. They are true “clowns” of the dog world, delighting in entertaining people with their antics 🙂 Though somewhat independent and stubborn at times, they do take well to training if positive methods are used. They are generally quiet, but will alarm bark if necessary, so they make good watch dogs.
They are sensitive hounds, and very good around children and other dogs large and small alike. Many are also cat friendly. They make calm and quiet house dogs, like most sighthounds; but are active and athletic and may require more exercise than Galgos or Greyhounds.
Podencos, especially the larger breeds, are renowned jumpers. They are able to jump incredible heights from a stand still and as such need a secure garden. Podencos love to run and are generally obedient when off-lead, allowing them free exercise and lots of fun.
As with Galgos, most Podencos that come into the care of animal shelters in Spain have been badly treated and so the same guidelines given for Galgos for their rehabilitation and expectations of their emotional well-being should be considered. Podencos also have a long life expectancy of around 12-14 years, but unfortunately rarely reach 4 years old in Spain 😦
Podencos are very loving dogs with wonderful natures, expect your Podenco to be a real character in your family.
PRO-GALGO UK & USA 
what stunning photos of stunning dogs, ive got greyhounds but would love the chance to have a podenco or galgo .
Hello Jackie,
I’ve just picked up your post on the Pro Galgo site.
We bring back around 12 Podenco Canarios back every year from the SARA Shelter on Lanzarote to the UK.
If I can help you in any way please contact me.
Regards
Rick Beauchamp
I would love to have one!! Do you bring them to the US??
Rick I have been a long time Basenji owner. I love & I am committed to the sight hound breeds. I have in the last year lost my beloved Basenji. Both me and my 2 basenji’s are ready to find a new dog to make up our pack of 3. I know I love the Basenji very much but have often thought i would like an Ibizan. I have been interested in a rescue and have been heartsick reading about the fate of Gaglos Greyhounds and Canarian Podenco’s. I would be grateful if you could provide some information on how I can put in a request to rescue a Canarian Podenco. I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest.
Cheers,
deb garceau
Hi Jackie, I am a sight hound lover. I have 4 and one of those is a Podenco, they are great dogs and do make good pets. They have more energy than a galgo and make a better guard dog, he is the only one of the 4 that will bark if people come to the door. I got Orlando from Rick and Lesley Beauchamp about 2 years ago. They were careful to ensure they match the right dog with the right family,because they know the dogs so well. If I had more space I’d have another one,I was very tempted as I know Rick and Lesley have a beautiful boy living with them at the moment with fantastic recall.
Anyone considering a sight hound with a big personality choose a Podenco.
Deb
Hi there, Jackie, there is another good rescue centre called little pod foundation. We are adopting a pup and await his arrival, lol.
I’ve recently adopted a pure breed podenco and a cross breed. They are both the most wonderful dogs and are truly hilarious to watch. Both of these dogs are rescues from Spain and if I had the room i’d adopt more. I came across podenco’s when I first started fostering through an association and I can’t imagine not having a podenco in the family now. They’re fantastic with my cats and my other dog and whistle training them is proving relatively easy. I adore them and would recommend everyone adopt a podenco.
I’ve got now three rescue dogs from Spain(I live in Finland):one is a podenco(probably a pure podenco andaluz,but who knows without papers),one is perhaps cross of podenco and staffordshire terrier,and just three weeks ago I got a galgo.All of them are really wonderful animals,and I am happy to get a chance to give them home..I would defintely recommend people to have rescue dog(s)from both breed.
Thank you Tia, your post is a pleasure to read. It was written a while ago so i hope you still have your 3 bundles of joy. Please continue to tell people in your own country about the plight of the Galgos and Podencos in Spain, because sadly these dogs continue to be mistreated.
These are just the most beautiful dogs. They are so loyal, but unfortunately, when they are retired as working dogs, they are cruelly cast aside. Even during their working life, most live a life of misery. There is enough information on the internet to see how cruel some people are to these wonderful dogs, but if you can help one into a loving home, you will have a friend for life.
I homed Bebe, a tiny malaguena podenca andaluz who had been badly injured on a Seville motorway. She is very alert, loves to run – does actually run around the courtyard looking for the cats! – and walks the meadows with our big lurcher. She is also a clown, especially if spoken to in a squeaky voice! She is a dear little dog and very well loved. She likes to share a bed with my Spanish galga, but also adores our male lurcher.
I’ve fostered 2 other podencos, larger rough-haired ones, and they too have been wonderful characters and very affectionate loving dogs.
Can recommend the breed to anyone.
A Podenco would make a great addition to my Greyhound family, especially as they can be a bit of a watchdog. I lost Mimi my GSD in April 2008 to a stomach tumour, she was great at looking after the house and the Greyhounds.
For my part I can tell you that I like podengoes and galgoes but most of all whippets and greyhounds.I have adopted a purebred racing greyhound who was found starving to death in Madrid likely stolen directly from some flapping track or breeder.Connor´s parents were both Irish exports. So I am trying to alert people to the plight of surplus racing greyhounds being sent of to places like Spain as this is a death warrant for those greyhounds.Connor was lucky he survived. It is a priviledge to own him and have him as part of my family. I am very proud of him as he has come a long way from being just another racing greyhound to a harmonious and happy greyhound who is a deeply loved familymember and brother to my whippet Mike.So Let us work together to stop the overbreeding and culling of these most nobel and gentel sighthounds.Sincerly Stud.art Lisbeth Mønsted Larsen Greyhound Action Denmark.
I live on the beautiful island of Lanzarote. Six weeks ago a starving and desperate Podenca turned up on my doorstep, a more loving and affectionate dog you could not wish to meet. She will live here with me never knowing another cruel hand or a hungry day. I would say that this breed of dog makes a perfect house dog or companion and would be a wonderful addition to any family. Give them a chance and you will fall in love. She is one of the lucky ones but there are so many more who desperately need our help.
Hi Jacky
I found your comments whilst trawling through the web site. I have been looking for an animal charity in Lanzarote called Wau Wau (German owned) and I gather it is supported by the German Government. From what I gather they send lots of animals from Lanzarote back to Germany for rehoming (I hope! and not for any experimental purposes). For example all the cats that live and breed in the various hotels/apartments are shipped to Germany (or so I have been told!). I was out in Costa Tequise end May and started feeding a Podenco who was absolutely starving. To cut a long story short, I was staying at the Nazareth Apartments and was feeding the cats and one night saw the dog eating the cat biscuits – I only had 3 days left in my holiday and started feeding him every day. At the Nazareth there is an English couple who volunteer for Wau Wau who feed the cats every day at the Nazareth and they very kindly fed the Podenco when I left. He became quite well know eventually, and I gather lots of people around were feeding him, but of course he was not “street cred” and would have ended up no doubt being killed by a car. So Angela from Wau Wau, together with the english couple managed to get hold of him and he is now staying at the Wau Wau animal sanctuary. He is now called “Elvis” – and he is an adorable beauty. I loved him on sight. I have been advised he will probably also end up being shipped to Germany. I loved him dearly but unfortunately I have a rescued cat from Dubai (a bit of a monster – 14 years old now) and he just hates anything that moves! he is half desert cat/half bengal.So no way could I have the Podenco myself. I heard from another charity called 9lives, also in Lanzarote, that a lot of dogs and cats are shipped to Germany – have you heard of Wau Wau – I am always concerned about animals, and even more so when so many are shipped to Germany. In England alone this year the experimentation on animals is up 20% than last year – and I would be absolutely devastated if I found that this little fellow was saved, only to be shipped to hell. So would appreciate any info you may have please. It is so lovely to hear that you have given a wonderful home to your Podenco and it is so wonderful to hear stories such as yours.
Hi Mary O’Brien,
I was just browsing this side when I saw your note, be assured, all dogs who are shipped to Germany are not for animal testing, they get rehomed. I am german myself, living in Scotland and owe two Galgos, both are from Spain, from Alicante. One of them went through hell their as she had been burned with cigarettes all over her body and is scared of any kind of man, specially with grey hair.
There are lots of german rescue organisations which are dedicated to Galgos, Greys or Podies (as we call them in Germany). Have a look there are all the major orgas from Germany and you can find nearly every dog which has been adopted or is still up for adoption.
I can only say that there is nothing better then a rescue dog, before my two Galgos I owed a lurcher from a local kennel and all of them are so thankful, great with my two kids. I will always have only rescue dogs and if I could, I would have even more.
Hopefully I could be a little helpful to your concerns,
Mandy
I Am a veterinary nurse who moved to spain 6 years ago.Working in the rural community,i was shocked and sickened by the attitude of not only the spanish people but also the so called upholders of the Animal Welfare Bill.There is no law that is upheld,the majority of spanish care not a jot,or even believe that any animal has feelings.They are there to do a job,when their services are no longer needed they are disposed of as cheaply as possible,hence the appalling cruelty,as a bullet costs money.We lived in the Campo and at the end of the hunting season,there were a lot of Podenco,s living feral,they were the lucky ones,who were just abandoned,others had their legs broken,making it impossible for them to make it back home to the hovels they were kept in.They are hung or stuffed down drains,or tied and burnt.We did manage to rescue just one of these loveliest of hounds,what a joy she was.She had managed to fare better than most,possibly being cream,she hadnt been physically abused and was an absolute clown.We adored her,as did our Lurcher bitch.They became almost soulmates.She was a Podenco Andaluz Medio,very pretty and i would have thought an excellent hunter,very,very quick,but extremely good with our cats.I was offered 450euros for her by a spanish acquaintance,even though she had obviously had a broken foreleg at some point in time.I estimate she was probably 2,2.5years when we found her,and was owned by her for 5 years.She came back to the UK with me 1 year ago.On New years day I found a small mammery lump,took her to a vet friend had her chest xrayed before he began excising the lump,to his disbelief there were over thirty small tumours in her lungs,she had shown absolutely no symptoms what so ever,of any breathing difficulties,coughing or inability or intolerance of exercise.Hence the tumour was not removed.Her fitness,and general wellbeing astounded him,and we managed to keep her that way for another 4 months,his comments being he could not belive that a dog so riddled in cancer could look and act so well,as she did until i made the heartbreaking decision.A Podenco is a privilege to own,and I would have another tomorrow.Bless you darling Tula
Hello Helene,
Reading your comment atm, it’s lovely you could help this podenco and gave her as much love and happiness as you could.
However, I would like to defend a bit the Spanish people here. I am Spanish and I am an animal lover, and know lots of other Spanish people who are just like me. I think it’s a bit unfair to generalize on this. Of course there’s is, unfortunately, lots of mistreated dogs in Spain but there’s also lots of Spanish people trying to end those terrible things.
I been living in the UK for a few years now and unfortunately I’ve seen horrible things here as well – dogs set on fire alive, others mutilated alive, dogfigthing… etc etc.
What I want to say is that unfortunately this happens everywhere, not only in Spain, and same than in Spain, I’ve met people here who adore animals and fight for their rights as well 🙂
We have been living in Spain for only 18 months and have seen and heard about the cruelty here.( I now foster dogs for rehoming.) The difference here is that although there are a lot of Spanish people here who love their animals there seem to be more that don’t care about them at all. In England people are punished for cruelty to animals, in Spain, most of the time the authorities don’t seem to care. Eg. A dog that was being badly abused was reported to the police several times but the police didn’t do anything about it. I hear that the Spanish Government is supposed to be trying to put something in law to stop the unbelievable cruelty to Galgoes and Podenco’s when their owners have no more use for them and I certainly hope that it is given the serious consideration that is so desperately needed.
We have just been adopted by a podenco, he turned up a few weeks ago and was in a dreadful condition, riddled with fleas and on the verge of starvation. We started by treating him for the fleas and feeding him and due to the fact we already have two rescue dogs and a rescue cat felt we would be unable to give him a home. SARA the local animal shelter were full but offered him a place on Christmas Eve. Too late, we just could’nt do it he is now ensconced and although still very wary is starting to find his feet in our home. He is slowly putting on weight and had a shower today, what a difference in a couple of weeks. I still can’t understand how such a lovely dog could be left to fend for himself.
We live rural Valencia. Five weeks ago we found a young Podenco Andaluz cowering in one of our outbuildings. She had obviously had a litter of pups not many weeks before. She resembled one of those upsetting RSPCA ads you see with every bone in her torso jutting out and she was truly terrified of people. Small, regular meals –
then she & I having girlie chats in the shed …… well now anyone would think she’d lived her entire life with us. She’s between 12 & 18 months old and is due to be spayed next month. Pippa – what a delight! She’s part of the doggy gang with our German Shepherd and Springer Spaniel. She loves our 5 cats and has playfights with our 8 month old Spanish kitten (AKA The Devil Child)- the cat usually wins! Her favourite hobbies include sunbathing and baggsing the best spot in front of the fire. She no longer stands with her tail tucked between her legs- now it wags whenever we speak or look in her direction. And -wow! – is she beautiful now; sleek, elegant and alert. She’s the bravest of our dogs on the terraces when strangers amble by (we have no fencing but she already knows her boundaries). And she has the SEXIEST bark we’ve ever heard!! Just slightly husky – has anyone else noticed that with their Podenco? This is not a breed we would have chosen but Pippa chose us and she’s just perfect. We can’t believe how lucky we are.
Hi. We have also been adopted by a beautiful little Podenco girl, she found as just as we came out of our village house,we were on our way to the bar for a drink with our friends, we jumped into the bar thinking she had not seen us, but low and behold she came in to find us a couple of minutes later. We have found out that she had been around the village for a few days, popping in to all the bars, probably hoping for food. She is in quite good condition, just a little limp on a back leg as she goes down steps, also she yelped when picked up and I suspect she may have a broken rib from probably being kicked, before being thrown out of her home to fend for herself. She came home with us, I fed her and she jumped on the sofa and settled down, I made her bed up outside as we did not know how she would be in the house, went to bed telling my husband to put hewr out there before he came up. I got up the next day to find her still on the sofa cuddled up to my scarf (which she will not let me have back) he said she looked so comfy he could not put her out,she has decided thats her spot and stayed there for 2 days, we bought her a collar and lead so that we could safely walk her and she is just perfect. Obviously she will now stay with us even though we had vowed that we would not get a dog, she is booked in with the vets for a check up and Im hoping he will tell us her age. We have named her Ruby as she is such a lovely golden red colour. What a darling dog.
So heartening to read of all of you adopting podencos. I have my first podenco girl coming to the UK to live with us in March and I already have a galga from ProGalgo. She is the most wonderful dog and we adore her. So pleased that there are people in Spain willing to help these beautiful and abused dogs.
We are also having a podenco girl in March and cannot wait!! Helene, your story brought a tear to my eye and the other stories have just confirmed that a podenco is the dog for us x
I belong to a Danish and a French Galgo rescue organisations and have made a video about Galgos and the situation in Spain. Videos on Podencos and more Galgos are in the works. Through the organisations they will be used for education and raising awareness of Podencos and Galgos. This is the most critical time of the years for the Spanish hunting dogs, so bless you all for your superb work for them. And thanks to everyone lucky enough to rescue them.
I have the most beautiful Galgos/Pedenco cross aged 12 months…and I can vouch for the superb character, playfulness and gentleness of these dogs…
If you have read all the messages above you will already know me and my sweet Podenca. She has been with us now for 6 months and has blossomed, her bones have covered and her coat is shiny and soft. I couldn’t imagine life without her. I am so besotted with the breed I am now considering getting her a pal. My friend recently found a 3 month old puppy under a garbage skip and took him home, we have introduced Kellogs to Freda and she is already in love. Yesterday I decided to go to the local animal shelter here on Lanzarote, it is called ‘SARA’. I had heard that they currently have almost 100 podenco’s in their care. Unfortunately here on the island not many people are prepared to adopt these loving and loyal animals, maybe it is a lack of breed knowledge. I have agreed to work with the Podenco’s walking and socialising them to hopefully help to rehome at least a few of them. If there is anyone out there who is interested in adopting a Podenco please contact SARA animal shelter in Lanzarote.
I notice that another kind person on the island has been adopted by one of these beauties. Well done Fiona.
I adopted a Podenco Erbano last year, rescued badly injured from a Seville motorway. She came on 3 legs, carrying the 4th. My vet did an amazing operation to report her injured joint and she is now like grease lightening, running on 4 legs – the only sign of her injuries being the scars on her hindquarters which she will carry for the rest of her life. She is the cutest, funniest, absolutely adorable miniature podenca, and an absolute character. And through adopting her, I have learnt so much about podencos and the different types, depending on where they originate.
Thank you to Mo and her wonderful team for the amazing work you do to help the galgos and podencos abandoned every year by the heartless galguerros.
Sorry! Should say ‘repair’ her injured leg!
Hi I’m fostering a Podenco galgos boy in France. He is 18 months old. I’ve had him 6 months. He came to my village from Spain at 4 months but his owner didn’t know how to look after him and gave him up when he grew too big for his apartment. He was untrained and suffering many problems including digestive, skin, fleas, behaviour (separation anxiety)…He is now a beautiful healthy boy. He is obedient (most of the time), housetrained, fun-loving, affectionate, castrated, vaccinated, microchipped and ready for a forever home. Please, if anyone can help, get in touch. Cathy in the Aude in France.
My wife & I rescued our Podenco bitch 4 years ago after she got into the garden of our villa in Estepona, Spain. Left by the farmers/hunters who use them for rabbiting she was a frail, starved, frightened little girl who is now the absolute joy of our lives. Everything about her character is exactly what has been said before and more, to the point where she now casually wades into our swimming pool 2 or 3 times a day for a quick swim and cool down before jumping on a sun lounger to dry. We weren’t looking for a dog at the time but now realise how lucky we are to have been sent this gentle clown of girl that we will adore forever.
My Podenco has just found me.. shes about 2yo.. golden with a little white on her paws, chest, tip of tail, and lightly on her face. She is so thin that she looks like a skin thrown over a skeleton. She has been to the vet and hasnt anything for my other dogs to catch.. what a beautiful girl she is, so loving after all she has been through. Why oh why are some of the Spanish so cruel to their animals.
i would LOVE to have a shorthaired podenco…where can i get one?????
Where do you live? There are many rescue centres in Spain, I have a rescued podenco waiting for a home but I think that a local charity have found her a home in Germany. If you want a podenco I am sure that there will be one now or soon in one of the rescue centres.Look at the website dogslookingforahome.com (Sofia is the one that I have rescued and has a home in Germany I think)
Lesley
Hi,
Just seen your comment.
I am bringing back 4 Podenco Canarios next week from SARA animal shelter in Lanzarote, one is already rehomed but 3 are still looking for homes . All have been hand picked as we spend around 6-8 weeks a year at the shelter . In the Canaries they dont suffer from the Sand Fly thing and of course the Canaries are rabies free. All dogs are Passported , neutered, microchipped and fully innoculated. No Podencos have ever come to the UK from SARA so it is reasonable to say that these will be the first Podencos from a Lanzarote to arrive in the UK. The Podenco Canario differs only slightly from the mediterranean Podencos. Please visit the ” Charity page” on http://www.express-recruitment.co.uk to view the dogs and of course get in touch with me if you want to take this further.
did you get a podenco? if not i can find one for you. please contact me as i work with animal protection in spain.
I met some people at an animal fair yesterday in Stuttgart Germany and learned about the Galgos. I live in Canada and have a wonderful former racing greyhound from the US. All of the sighthounds are wonderful animals and deserve humane treatment. I knew about the horrible conditions of racing greyhounds in Spain but didn’t know about the Galgos. I show my disgust for the mistreatment in Spain by not visiting as a tourist and I refuse to bring any corporate meetings to Spain. Thank you to everyone who takes care of these lovely animals!
Hi, We were adopted by a starving Podenco puppy about 4 months ago. We didn’t want him as we have a small traditional Spanish house in the mountains of Andalucia and three other foundlings. Barney however was determined to be adopted or to adopt us and he stayed. He is loving, faithful and now he is house-trained delightful. He was more difficult to train than any other dog we’ve ever had and basically ate the house and had to be muzzled when we were out. Now he literally seems to want to please and loves praise. He shows us that he’s been good. Barney and the rest, Angus and Lucy [Bretan brother and sister] and Scampi Doodle [who knows what she is] were abandoned like Barney. They have the whole local countryside [el campo] to play in and have adventures in the river.
I can certainly vouch for the Galgos being an excellent companion. I found Bones (as she is now called) hanging from a tree in the campo near Sevilla (Andulucia) last year, weighing under 10kg, void of fur, badly burnt and cut. I wondered if i was doing the right thing by taking her in (as I have other dogs and was worried about leishmania) and I didnt want my Daughter to become too attached incase Bones never pulled through. However, I decided to take the risk (well what else could I do?) and a year on I am so glad I did. Bones has become one of the most loving and loyal dogs that we have ever owned, and I feel privilaged to have her as part of our family. She has even become a surrogate mum to one of our other smaller rescue dogs. How people can so cruelly treat these beautiful dogs (or any animal) is beyond me. Now that she is in great shape with glossy fur (yes its nearly all regrown) I am repeatedly asked if i would like to breed her. To which i reply NO, she has been spaded (something i would recommend to any dog owner in spain, given the number of unwanted animals). Please if you live in Spain and are considering getting a Galgo then i ask you to seriously consider getting one from a rescue centre or street, as so many Galgos are cast aside by unscrupulous people.
so beautiful, and so heartbreaking. How can we educate these people into compassion. I have tried to donate via paypal, but it wont let me. Will send a cheque instead. Thankyou for your strength in rescuing and caring for these noble dogs.
Hi,
Whilst living in Spain, I volunteered with 2 local rescue organisations, on the Costa Blanca & in Andalucia. We managed to rehome as many dogs as possible & I, myself ended up bringing 5 Spanish rescues back to the Uk with me. One is a Podenco Andaluz pequeno, another a Podenca mediana cruzada, posible con Pastor Aleman! (The others are a Perro de agua de espanol, a Gos d’Atura & a “who knows” resembling a scruffy white toilet brush with sticky out teeth!!). They are an absolute delight , not without their challenges, as they are natural born hunters….but I could not imagine now a time when I was without them….
No one taking on one of this delightful breed, will ever regret their decision……pure love, fun, mischief & devotion rolled into one!
we have adopted a podenco cross a dear little bitch who has waited since sept 2008 for someone to rescue her from the dog shelter we live near los cristianos on tenerife and have witnessed the casual way the locals treat animals! we can confirm that the breed is intelligent and cheeky also we have witnessed the incredible jumping ability our Twiggy flew off a cliff after a quail and plumetted 20feet into a quarry then got up and walked away unscathed though slightly winded!
On Easter Sunday 2009 we travelled to Bristol to pick up our new arrival a Podencos called Menta. She was delighted to meet me and my two very large Greyhounds Missy and Merlin. On the following day we went to Greyhound Rescue Wales Easter Monday event at the Riverside Park Pontardawe South Wales. It was noticed that Menta was very nervous of other people the only dog she did not like was a Great Dane.
Now 14 months later she enjoys off lead running & racing with Missy and Merlin, she has grown in size and weighs in at 35 kilos but does not have an ounce of fat on her. When I call her she comes racing back to me laughing all over her face. Menta does tend to Alarm bark when she sees other people and their dogs but only in greeting. She loves playing with puppies trying very hard to get them to play with her.
[IMG]http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb25/drwolfuk/CIMG0656.jpg[/IMG]
We rescued a podenco in Oliva/valencia spain. He has lived with us now for 8 years, we have since adopted 3 cats and another dog, and have a 5 year old child who adores him. We loved them all so much we took them all to Australia with us! He/they all travelled well and did not overly mind the 30 days in quarintine. They are the perfect pet and so much fun.
I wanted to say I agree with all the above comments
I have adopted three galgas and a podenco cross from shelters in Spain. I have become so involved I now visit Spain with my rescue association and bring the most fantastic dogs out , most of whom have foster homes or permenant homes to go to. If you can adopt one or more they give so much back in love and fun, considering the dreadful treatment by their spanish hunter owners.
Don’t hesitate…get in touch!
We adopted a what we think is a podenco orito 2 years ago, also maltreated (very withdrawn and near impossible to communicate with). Today she is the most gentle, loving, loyal dog imaginable. I occasionaly meet people with podencos while out dog walking and we stop and have a chat about what a wonderful breed they are!
We currently have two Podenco Canario crosses looking for homes, a boy and a girl. Both are neutered ,microchipped, fully inocculated and of ourse passported. The little girl is 18 months old and was abandoned at SARA sanctuary in Lanzarote as a very small puppy. She has blossomed into a beautiful reddish tan coloured, quite large Podenco (with droopy ears which is why we know that she isnt fully a Podenco. Currently at a foster home she is housetrained and lives quite happily with two dog greyhounds and a saluki cross bitch. A real “ham” of a dog in need of a forever home.
The boy is a wonderful Podenco cross Bardino, again around 18 months old he has been in the country a month and is already housetrained and walks to heel off his lead- naturally. He loves fuss and attention and will make a truly wonderful pet. He is the size of a fairly large Podenco with the “Tiger striped” coat of a Bardino and droopy ears. His expression is the most enchanting ever.
I would dearly like to find both of these wonderful dogs a home before the end of the year so if anyone in the UK can help please contact me.
Hello-
I am planning a trip next spring from the usa to spain in order to adopt a podenco. I think I am heading to SARA, as I have been told they alwyas have podencos. Does anyone know what I need to do to bring the dog home with me via the plane?
We have live in Spain for nearly 4 years and have 8 dogs (was 9 but sadley our 16 yrs old whippet cross went to the bridge 3 weeks ago) Our latest addition is a 12 week old Galgo called Dudley who was heard crying in a dustbin when he was around 10 days old. He is a lovely Brindle boy who is so full of life and I am so pleased we had the chance to hand rear him and give him a home.
Estoy avergonzada de ser española . Las cosas que hacen los galgueros a los pobres animales son brutales , crueles , inhumanas , terroríficas . Me gustaria verlos en la carcel por sus crímenes contra los animales , pero en España hay una mano negra , mejor dicho , varias manos negras , que impiden que se los castigue debidamente .
No, we bring dogs to the UK only and in truth it would be difficult for us to carry out our screening checks on potential adoptees in your country as we dont have any network backup. Therefore even if we could arrange flights which would be very costly for you and assuming there would be no importation hiccups we would in truth not be comfortable forwarding a dog without being confident of your suitability.
Please dont be offended by this but these dogs have it tough enough initially and we wouldnt be being fair to them if we werent able to check you out although of course I am sure that we would tick all the boxes on you at an inspection.But we have to be certain.
Regards
Rick
I have just been ‘adopted’ by an abandoned Podenco who followed me home from the dustbins (here in Spain dustbins are kept at various locations in a village for ease of pick up by the bin lorries). She is not very old, probably only a year, and is showing signs of hunger (ribs and haunches visible.) She was very timid at my approach but her hunger overcame her fear and she was eventually eating from my hand. She is being cared for by me until I can find her a home. She is quite literally a beautiful dog that will become even more beautiful as she gains weight. I can only look after her for the next few weeks as I return to England at the end of October, so please say you can take over her care before I go. It is customary in Spain that unclaimed dogs are usually ‘put down’ after 10 days of being handed in. Is there a rescue centre I can bring her to? I am in the Gandia area.
Recently I lost my 12 & 1/2 year old Black and White Greyhound Missy, However I have a very devoted Black Greyhound Merlin (7 & 1/2) and an extremely devoted White Wire Haired Ibizan Hound Menta (about 7) who came from Pro-Galgo Spain in April 2009. 4 days after losing Missy I collected a 5 year old Black Greyhound who I have called Mickey Finn.
Towards the end of May and into June 2012 we will be visiting Pro-Galgo Spain for 15 days. We, that is me and my three Sighthounds are caravanning across France from Calias (Eurotunnel) stopping for 2 nights at 4 different French Camping sites starting out on the 22nd May from Calias Eurotunnel and then returning via the same French Camping sites to be at Eurotunnel on the 22nd June. We are visiting to help out and for Mo to see Menta again after leaving her in April 2009.
I have had to cancel this Spanish Trip due to Arthritis in my knees and left hip, plus I have a Xray arranged for my hip on 28th May 2012.
I would love to adopt one of these special dogs. I have a retired racing greyhound and absolutely love sighthounds. I just wish we could get them over here from Spain easier. I live in the USA and it is very expensive to adopt them because of the transportation.
Hi iv just adopted a small podenco,who had the most alwfull start in her little life shes 3yrs old ,she was used has a breeding machine & her back leg had been broken ,which now has a metal plate in thanks to a wonderful vet here in spain ,I didnt no much about podencos but i can honstley say she is lovely ,shes still a bit nervous she thinks im going to leave her so she follows me evey were i go ,she my little shadow,They are such a lovely breed of dog & i would recommend anyone to adopted one of these lovely dogs ,for such a loyal dog they have such a bad life .
I live in Canada, in the GTA, in Brampton. We have two Spanish Galgos. They are the loveliest dogs I have ever seen! Very calm during the day, excited only when we go for a walk and they see the squirrels. They are good with our three cats. Always when we go for a walk with them we are asked what dog breed they belong to and I noticed that the local people LOVE them! I am sure Galgos would be quickly adopted here. A pity that Spain is so far away!
I live in Calgary. I am most interested in the channels you used to rescue your Gaglos. I recently rescued Podenco but unfortunately could not get him to Calgary. So he was homed with another family. I was very sad because I had been working with the rescue group since June this year. He has a new family as of two weeks ago because I did pay for him to come to US,,but I could not get him to Calgary. It is a very long story. If you would let me know if there are other channels to rescue from Spain I would be very grateful. I am a sight hound lover and know the beautiful nature of these lovely dogs.
Anxiously waiting to hear from you.\
Deb Garceau
Hi, Yes they are marvellous sighthounds. I have Menta a Spanish White Wired Haired Ibizan Hound Grande who came to live with me and my two now three Irish Greyhounds on Easter Sunday 2009 from Pro-Galgo Spain. She is now effectively boss dog since I lost mt senior Greyhound Missy (12 & 1/2) on 5th December 2011 from Bone Cancer snapping her very top of her Femur, which effectively meant she had no supportive back legs. Menta is great off the lead at the park we walk in at least twice a day Her recall is amazing.
Good luck to you,
They are truly lovely dogs although not the easiest to look after if you have limited time. But they certainly seem to know how to demonstrate gratitude to their rescuers and Im certain that you will have years of devotion as a reward for your kindness.
I have found that Menta my Podenco is quite a clown, she has lots of dog walkers at the park we walk in stitches as she Alarm Barks when she sees people and dogs coming towards us. She will run towards them barking then at 30 metres from them comes running back to me. She thinks all smal dogs and puppies are her pups, is case the person/s object to her she now gets back up from my 8 year Greyhound. She adores my two male Greyhounds but still objects to my latest female Greyhound but very slowly accepting her. Menta still sleeps at night on the dog bed in the front room whereas all three Greyhounds sleep in my bedroom on dog beds until about 5am when Merlin my 8 year old Greyhound comes on my bed for a cuddle.Menta loves getting muddy and paddling in the Swansea Canal and the River Tawe provided the river is not in full flood. She knows all the points that she can access the canal.safely and the three Greyhounds are now following her lead.
I have a little mongrel dog called kelpie, I lost my other dog Bramble last year he was 15 and miss him so much so I went on the SOS animal site on fb and fell in love with Luisma, I’ve had home check and passed and my beautiful boy is coming too his forever home. He is a red dog and has been in kennels for over a year now..he was found in a terrible state in Murcia by the roadside..he will be here in September, we got him a big Eco bed and a new collar, he will be so loved bless him. I’m glad I came on this site so I have an idea what he’s going too be like…soooooo Thankyou everybody love Linnie x x
Love this breed!
I have had Menta from Pro-Galgo Spain since Easter Sunday 2009.She makes everyone laugh as she is so delighted to see anyone Human or Dog. When we arrive at one of our walking places she barks to let everyone know we have arrived. She lives with Two male ex-racing Greyhounds and one female ex-racing Greyhound.Off the lead she ensures that I and the Greyhounds are still around, she loves travelling to different places in my Dog Wagon.
We live in Spain and for 8yrs avoided owning a dog because of our life style, just before Christmas on a cold dark night as we crossed the rambla to our house I caught sight of something small in the headlights,it turned out to be a 6 week old Podenco pup. Lola as we called her is the most loveable,funny and loving dog,back in the UK we have had Greyhound and Lurcher pups but the Podenco is so full of energy in comparason and even at such a young age can out walk me, she stays close when out walking and totally trust worthy of the lead. Podencos and most sight hounds make wonderful family pets being faithful, obedient and fun to live with so please adopt one today you will not regret it. Dave
I read your article while researching about Podencos because of our article on Saving Julia. Thank you for informing people about this amazing breed.
I am fundraising to get Julia, a podenco to her forever home in the UK, I would love if anyone can help? We are doing various raffles to raise funds too, so you could enter those? 🙂 http://www.myfunnybunnyblog.com/2013/02/lets-save-julia-podenco.html
Thanks so much, I can’t wait to get Julia, in her new cosy home!
Monica x
A great webite. I work for a charity in Spain who have many galgos and podencos. Wonderful, badly-treated dogs. I brought a lurcher with me from Scotland. So similar in nature. Bone idle most of the time – but if they see a rabbit!!!!
Alan
I lived in spain long enough to know the mentality of most of the spaniards: animals have no value. Further, for the spaniards that have Podencos and Galgos it would be stupid to sterilise a bitch for €30 when you can just kill the puppies for free every 6 months. And most of the dogs there are kept in small cages with many other dogs, and fed anaemic portions every few days. During hunting season it is well known that they aren’t fed but once a week. Even spaniards that have dogs as “pets” rarely have females because, as they’ve told me thousands of times, “Females are problems.” The females are, without thinking or caring, killed soon after birth. I’m glad that people are realising that most Podencos and Galgos are great. But I can’t say that for most spaniards. Even the spaniards who wouldn’t drown or shoot or hang or kill the puppies with a shovel themselves would never tell another spaniard who does those things to not do it. Most spaniards are small minded people. I have a Podenco Canario that was “lucky” (as some spaniards say) when, at about 2 weeks of age she was driven far from home and was thrown out of a truck with her 4 brothers and sisters. I’ve had her since she was 3 weeks old. The spaniards actually treated me badly because I treated treated a female Podenco lovingly. My Podenco is more pleasant than 99.9% of the spaniards and smarter than probably 85% of them. She is terrific, but needs A LOT of walking, running and hunting time. My Podenco Canario is not a happy couch potato like greyhounds and galgos: she wants to be out all day every day. When she’s inside she is biding her time until we go out next (and we spend, on average 2 to 3 hours a day out). So, if you want a great dog that is low maintenance get a greyhound, a galgo, or a whippet. Podencos are very driven hunters: centuries of breeding for one purpose. Now that I’ve had a sighthound I could never have any other kind. And now that I have lived in many countries I can never say that spain has a quality of life based on anything but its geographic location (which is to say that some parts have a lot of sunny weather). The spanish culture is perfectly represented by how they treat their dogs: pathetic. And in closing, don’t be drawn in by the misleading statement that most spaniards reiterate mindlessly as if imprinted on their genes: that there are good and bad people in every place. The fundamental flaw in their “national argument” of “there are good and bad people everywhere” attempts to distract one from the most important aspect of society: percentages. spain has a high percentage of intensely selfish people with little to no morals hidden behind a facade of “vamos para cañas!” (let’s go out for beers!).
sorry but i dont agree. most of the spanish people are good people, nice with animals and very good adoptants for galgos and podencos. we have in facebook an adoptants group with nearly 7000 spanish sighthound adoptants. our rescue group rehomes nearly only in spain and and its a very successfull experience.
100% of our adoptants and volunteers are spanish, over 1500 animal welfare associations are helping animals in spain, over 95% are founded by spanish and managed by spanish volunteers.
please do not put all of them in the same pot. in spain as everywhere else are thousands and thousands of animal lovers. help us to help them to make spanin a better place for animals