From Bev Farmer of Podenco Friends.

‘I was sent this photo a couple of years ago from a Spanish friend and at the time posted it and thought an interesting piece of history to share of a Podenco.. Doing some research its possible it is from the late 1800´s .. There is very little to be found about the history of the podencos and I talk to Spanish friends who can recall from 2 or 3 generations back family members had them .. Even then they were just dogs kept on the land not family pets and often know has campo dogs . Historically Podencos were the dogs for the poorer people and their skills to catch rabbits literally put food on the table. This possibly could explain why today to some this breed is not respected and undervalued.

Yet you maybe surprised to hear that here in Spain the Podenco Ibicenco , Canario are a recognised breed under the group primitive type. The Podenco Andaluz, Maneto and the Valenciano under the group Spanish breeds . These are for showing and have a breed standard with traceable bloodlines and pedigrees .. These you will never find abandoned.

The Podencos are so much part of the history of Spain yet so little is known about them. Even now I am stopped and asked “que tipo de raza” ( what breed) often ask are they a Galgo and I explain its a Podenco .. They have heard of the breed but never seen one. Only a few days ago some workers at the back of the land of the finca asked about Timo they didnt even know what a podenco was .. They said he was magnificent never knew this was a Spanish breed ..

There is good news though, many Spanish people have adopted Podencos and are very active in raising awareness and rescuing .. The majority of the Podencos we take in come from Spanish rescue groups and friends or calls from Spanish people asking for help. Working together we are making a difference and how can you help? share our posts tell their story ..

Be the voice for the Great Forgotten !!!’