From Bev Farmer of Podenco Friends.
Podencos are capable of more than many imagine.! Last month Esca and I took part in the Dog Walk Challenge, organised by Nancy Wigglesworth. The challenge combines kilometres walked, metres climbed, tasks, tricks and group activities. It is all about confidence, connection and simply enjoying time together. We work in teams and your team members can be from any part of the world ..
There were 70 participants. Three Podencos finished in the top five:
2nd – Esca and me
3rd – Amber and Becks
5th – Ocho and Nancy
That is real achievement. There was strong competition, with many very experienced dogs and handlers from different training backgrounds. Podencos are so often underestimated, yet they showed they can learn, adapt and hold their own amongst other breeds.
I am especially proud of Esca. Trying new things can be hard for her. We adapt as we go, and the challenge allowed us to work within her comfort zone and then gently stretch it. She can walk forever though. I set a personal goal of walking the equivalent of three marathons in nine days and we exceeded it, even with storms and flooding.
We are already looking ahead to the next Dog Walk Challenge in Spring 2026, with some new ideas to help welcome more novice dogs. It is open to all levels. If you are interested in joining, keep an eye out for future posts.
Podencos just need a chance to shine, and they do.