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Although all of our foster dogs were very badly treated by their owners in Spain, the vast majority are still very gentle and devoted. Some are, however, timid and must be accustomed carefully to their new life. We are always gladly available to you to help to solve possible difficulties together.  

From the kennel to the home

Our Greyhounds, Galgos and Podencos were kept locked up in cramped kennels, dark sheds or damp cellars. They were only allowed out to run or to hunt so they do not know much about life outside these confines. Sometimes, situations that we take as a matter of course, for example a staircase, may take patient training. The dogs may therefore need a period of time before moving in with Mrs. Bader in the house. Thus they are prepared carefully, but purposefully, for life as a family dog.

Many dogs astonish us with the fact that they are clean from the first day onwards. Others need understanding, in order for them to comprehend the many new impressions, including the fact that the business is to be carried out outside. Punishing a dog which has a mishap in the house will only scare it which leads to still more confusion, panic and further incidents.
 


Running free/hunting instinct

Greyhounds start training from 12 months of age to chase after a lure. Most Galgos and Podencos have been used as young dogs to hunt.

Do not therefore let the dog off the leash when you are outside for the first three months!

First, you and your dog need time to learn. Assume that it has never heard the words “come, here”. Show it in small steps what you mean. Begin by letting it run between yourself and your companion, back and forth, calling to it by its name. When it comes to you, welcome it with lavish praise – even if it takes a long time to return. Playful exercises are an excellent assistance with the socialization and deepen communication between you and your dog. Remember however that the exercises exert the dog. Break the exercises off with a positive experience, before the dog is tired. When the dog has settled down, it lies at the discretion of the owner as whether you can let it run freely or not. If case your dog does not return, it is beneficial  - in addition to the microchip - to make sure that it always carries an identity disc with telephone number.

In the forest and in the city the dog should always remain on the leash!

Caution is required when there is contact with cats or small dogs. We recommend that you put a muzzle on the dog for the first meeting. Hold the dog and cat at first in separate areas. Exchange blankets, so that the animals can get accustomed to the smell of the other one. If the dog should snatch at the cat, ignore its failure and create more distance from the cat. As soon as the dog behaves calmly, praise it and give it a treat. Over many days, the distance can be reduced, but only so far as your dog remains relaxed near to the cat. If it becomes excited again, you went too far and will have to take a step back in training. The same is valid with the socialization with small, long-haired dogs. Never hit your dog! Also, do not use so-called education aids described in some books such as water pistols, rattle cans etc. Always remember: It is instinct which guides your dog, not bad will.

 Source of danger Flexileash
Double safeguards for Galgos
 

 

Feeding

High protein-rich food is used only for our “pensioners". It is not suitable for running and hunting dogs. A protein portion from 21% to 25% is ideal. Likewise is the use of nutrient-rich food. It goes through the gastro-intestinal tract too fast. A good dry food, dampened with warm water, or standard canned dog food are the most suitable.
Hunting/running dogs have a sensitive stomach; you should therefore feed them with three small meals a day rather than with one large meal. Pay attention to your dog´s weight: a female Greyhound should weigh between 25 to 30 kilograms, a male Greyhound can up weigh up to 40 kilograms, depending on the portion of muscle tissue. The ideal weight for a female Galgo is between 23 and 28 Kilos; a male Galgo may weigh up to 35 Kilos, again dependent on the muscle portion and its size. A large Podenca (female) can weigh up to 30 kg, a large Podenco (male) can weigh up to 40 Kilos.


It is easy to assess whether your dog is too thin or too fat. On its back you should be able to see three vertebrae clearly, two further may be still easily spotted. If you see 5 vertebrae clearly, your dog is too thin.

Underweight causes stress and overweight harms the joints.

Wear and tear

With these dogs, muscle or bone pain can occur as a result of overexertion because of running and/or the shooting season. Foggy cold weather will aggravate the condition further. The knee joints of the front legs are usually the most badly stricken. Similarly, the joints of the rear legs can be damaged – for example, the location of an old fracture can later become arthritis. We get many of our dogs with wounds, scars or weals, or bald patches on the elbow, stomach etc. With a good ointment these problems can be treated. Offer your dog a soft bed (an old quilt, a feather/spring bed or a sofa cushion) to protect its prominent bones and the joints must be protected to avoid swelling.

 

Education

Under dog schools/coaches  you will find competent specialized persons, whom we can recommend.
 

These descriptions do not replace going to see the veterinary surgeon! (recommended veterinary surgeons/hospitals)

If your veterinary surgeon does not have experience with these breeds of dogs, please contact us. 

 

Grey, Galgo Podenco

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At new home
 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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