Podenco Canario

Also called Canarian Warren Hound, Canary Islands Warren Hound, Podenco Canario

An enthusiastic, spirited and courageous dog with plenty of nervous energy.

Size	Medium
Height	53 to 64 cm (21 to 25 in)males 55 to 64 cm, females 53 to 60 cm1
Coat	Short, smooth and dense
Origin	Canary Islands, Spain.1 2
Group	Spitz and Primitive types (FCI group 5)

Recognised breedShort profile

brave and full of drive

tireless in the heat

keen nose, eyes and ears

Personality what they are like

An enthusiastic, spirited and courageous dog with plenty of nervous energy. The standard notes that it has presence without being aggressive.1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth and dense

A slender, athletic medium-sized hound with a short, dense coat. It is so lean that the outline of the ribs and hip bones shows, and its large upright ears give it an alert look.1

Coloursred and whitered from orange to deep mahogany1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Podenco Canario. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Very high. Bred to hunt rabbits over rough volcanic ground for long hours in the heat, so it needs lots of running and scent work.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat needs only occasional brushing.1

The story where it all began

The breed has lived on the Canary Islands for centuries as the local rabbit hound. The FCI standard links it to ancient Egyptian-type hounds brought by early Mediterranean traders, while more recent genetic work suggests it is closer to other European hunting dogs than long thought.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Its nose, nails and skin tend toward a reddish shade, and it is said to 'blush' when excited.2
2
When on a rabbit's trail it gives a rapid, repeated bark that some local hunters call the 'song of the rabbit'.2
3
The standard says it can sense rabbits hidden deep in rock crevices and stone walls.1
4
Puppies can show hunting instinct at about three months old.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is known as Podenco Canario on the Canary Islands, from where it originates. The name 'Podenco Canario' simply means 'Canarian Warren Hound' in Spanish, referring to its purpose as a rabbit-hunting dog from the Canary Islands.2

Name ideas for your new friend

ChicoEstrellaVolcánCoralRápidoLavaCieloArenaFuegoNubePiedraOla

A day in the life told by a Podenco Canario

I bounce out of bed before the alarm, ready for action. My human takes me to the rocky trail where I can really stretch my legs. I zigzag over boulders, sniffing every crevice for lizards. A hawk circles overhead, I watch it, but rabbits are more interesting. We play a game where I find a hidden ball among the bushes, and I'm so proud when I bring it back. After a long run, I flop down in the shade, panting happily. In the evening, I guard the terrace, ears perked for any sound. When my human scratches my ears, I lean in and close my eyes. This is the life I was born for.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard No. 329, Group 5 (Spitz and primitive types), Section 7 (primitive type hunting dogs); accepted 1987.3
Real Sociedad Canina de España (RSCE): Recognised Spanish breed, listed in Spanish legislation.2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

100g oats
1 banana (mashed)
40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
Splash of water (as needed)

How

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Podenco Canario, and at what times?

Your Podenco Canario should be fed at least two meals a day as an adult, with puppies needing three to four smaller meals. Consistent times help their digestion, and free feeding is not recommended. For exact amounts, check the food label and your vet.4

What should a Podenco Canario eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for your Podenco Canario's age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, which are especially harmful to dogs. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.5

How often should I bathe a Podenco Canario?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, while general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep the coat healthy.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Podenco Canario need brushing?

Your Podenco Canario's short, smooth coat needs only occasional brushing, and a weekly brush is plenty to remove loose hair and keep it shiny. Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing every seven days. This also helps you bond and check for any skin changes.1 6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Podenco Canario's nails, and how often?

Trim your Podenco Canario's nails every month, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail clipper and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Podenco Canario need?

Your Podenco Canario has very high energy and needs lots of daily running and scent work, as it was bred to hunt for long hours. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and play, but this breed thrives with off-leash exercise in a safe area. A tired Podenco is a happy one.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Podenco Canario's teeth and ears?

Brush your Podenco Canario's teeth two to three times a week using a dog toothpaste, and daily is ideal. Check ears weekly, especially since the floppy ears can trap moisture, and gently dry them without pushing anything into the canal. Regular care prevents infections and keeps your dog comfortable.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Podenco Canario live?

Lifespan varies for each dog, so it's best to ask your vet or a good breeder for an estimate based on your Podenco Canario's lineage and health. With proper care, many medium-sized dogs live into their early teens.

Is a Podenco Canario good with children and other pets?

Your Podenco Canario is spirited and courageous but not aggressive, though its suitability with children and other pets depends on early socialization and individual temperament. A good breeder can give you insight into the puppy's parents, and always supervise interactions.

Can a Podenco Canario be left alone?

This breed has plenty of nervous energy and may struggle with being left alone for long periods, potentially developing separation anxiety. It's best to ask your vet or a good breeder for advice, and consider gradual alone training or a dog walker if needed.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.