Activities For Portuguese Podengos

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Activities For Portuguese Podengos

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Introduction

The Portuguese Podengo is an ancient dog breed that is native to Portugal. This multi-sensory hound is categorized into three sizes – the Pequeno (small), Medio (medium) and Grande (large). The Podengo was first developed for hunting and, regardless of the size, they have an affinity for game. The breed normally worked with their handlers to kill and retrieve game or to direct them towards the hunter so the game can be shot. While this breed has retained their hunting skills over the years, the Portuguese Podengo now commonly serves as a watchdog, house pet and an overall companion to humans. Athletic, alert and intelligent are just some of the qualities that make the Podengo stand out.

Flirt Pole

Popular

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Any Day

Free

Easy

15 - 30 min

Items needed

Toy

Yarn or string

PVC pipe

Activity description

The Portuguese Podengo is a very alert and observant breed. This is why they are quite skilled when it comes to chasing down and hunting game. A good activity that will pique your Podengo’s naturally attentive mind and will get them moving is by playing the flirt pole game. Simple but effective, this game involves using a lure to entice your dog’s senses. Not only is this game mentally stimulating, it also forces your pooch to start running, thereby serving as a form of exercise. The flirt pole game also costs very little and can be done anytime. It is also a good stepping stone if you ever want to get your pooch involved in the canine sport of lure coursing.

Step

Make or buy a flirt pole

To lure your dog, you first need to create a flirt pole for the game. For this, all you need is a pole or a pipe, a piece of yarn or string, and a toy or plastic bag to be used as the lure. Attach your lure to one end of the string and tape the other end to the pole or pipe. Your flirt pole should resemble a fishing rod. If you do not want to exert too much effort in creating a flirt pole, you can buy one from any pet store.

Step

Lure your dog around

After you have your flirt pole, you can start playing the game with your pooch. Find a safe and wide space to play in. Begin by getting your dog’s attention using the flirt pole. Try to move the lure around and see if your dog will follow it. Once your dog has taken an interest in the lure, start running around and moving sideways while your dog chases the lure. Don’t forget to let your dog catch the bait every once in a while.

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Double Ball Chase

Popular

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Sunny Day

Free

Easy

15 - 30 min

Items needed

Tennis balls

Treats (optional)

Activity description

It is a known fact that dogs love to chase things around, be it toys or other creatures. This is why games such as fetch or chase are quite popular among canines. For an extremely energetic and alert dog like the Portuguese Podengo, something as simple as chasing a ball around can be an exciting activity. You can take this game to a whole another level by simply adding another ball into the mix. A game of double ball chase makes the game more exciting for your Podengo. Furthermore, your pooch will become more challenged and will put their chasing skills to the test.

Step

Good area to play in

To play ball chase, you need to find a secured area that is wide enough for your dog to run around. The best place to play ball chase is in your own backyard, preferably one that is fenced. You can also go to a secured off-leash dog park. However, just be sure that your dog is trained well enough in obedience so that they don’t go running away from you.

Step

Chase the ball

Get your dog used to the tennis balls by letting them sniff and play with them. Then, start the game by using just one ball. Slowly get your dog used to the idea of going after the tennis ball after you’ve thrown it. Once your dog gets the idea, you can add the second ball into the mix. Get your dog’s attention to the balls and throw them at the same time in different directions. Watch as your dog tries to figure out which ball to go after first; this will help stimulate them mentally. Give your pooch treats after successfully chasing down the balls to keep them motivated.

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Doggy Advent Calendar

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Cheap

Easy

15 min

Items needed

Dog treats

Tissue paper

Pouches or gift bags

Activity description

Christmas is one of the most fun holidays of the year because it is the chance for you to celebrate and do fun things with your loved ones. A staple during Christmas season is the advent calendar, a special calendar that contains a treat for every day leading up to Christmas. While homemade advent calendars are quite popular among humans, you can also make a special “advent calendar” for your furry buddy. This is a fun game that you can play with your pooch since they will definitely enjoy opening a different treat for the next couple of mornings. It’s also a good way to get your creative juices flowing.

Step

Buy the materials needed

To make an advent calendar for your dog, you need to buy a few things. The most important thing would be your dog’s favorite treats. Try to get as much variety as possible so that your dog can enjoy a new treat per day. You should also purchase two dozen gift bags or pouches for the 24 days of your advent calendar. Make sure these pouches are dog-friendly and have a festive look. If you are on a budget, you can sew your own bags.

Step

Prepare the treats

Once you have all the materials, the only thing you have to do is to place the treats at the bottom of each pouch. Then, cover the treats with non-toxic materials such as tissue paper. Make sure that the treat is covered just right so your dog won’t have too hard of a time looking for the treats. Hang the pouches on your wall in an advent calendar layout. Make sure that they placed high enough so your pooch can’t reach the treats. During the 24 days of Advent, give your dog a single pouch. If you have your own advent calendar, you may even open it at the same time as your pooch.

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More Fun Ideas...

Backyard Run

Portuguese Podengos love to run around freely on their own. The problem is that they have to be kept on-leash in public areas because of their high prey drive, which can have them chasing other game and creatures. What you can do is, have your pooch in a secured and fenced backyard and let your dog run off. It’s a good way for your dog to blow off some steam.

Trampoline

Trampolines are a foolproof way to have some unique fun. This activity can be enjoyable not just for humans but also their canine friends. Just set up a trampoline in your own backyard and start jumping around with your pooch. Don't let your Portuguese Podengo jump too high or too rambunctiously, though. You don't want your dog to suffer a leg injury.

Conclusion

The Portuguese Podengo is a sighthound that has impressive athleticism, vigilance, intelligence and a seemingly endless amount of energy. Due to this set of skills, Podengos are a great choice for a variety of purposes – from canine sports and showmanship to more practical uses such as watchdog and hunting. This dog breed needs an owner who can handle their energy and provide their needs.