By Macy Gen Veterinary AssistantMacy Gen Last updated: 18th October 2022

Spanish Greyhound (Galgo Espanol)

By

Macy Gen Veterinary Assistant Macy Gen
Last updated: 18th October 2022

Being an ancient breed, the Spanish Greyhound or Galgo Espanol belongs to the family of sighthound.  Primarily used in the countryside of Spain for hunting hares, Galgos bear a resemblance to the Greyhound, though their conformation appears to be a little different than the latter. In fact, they have a smaller body stature and are also higher at the back than in front. Other physical features of the Spanish Greyhound include a streamlined head, giving the impression of big ears, and long tails. Their quiet and docile nature has earned them the reputation of great house pets.

Spanish Greyhound Pictures

 

Quick Information

Other namesSpanish Galgo
CoatSmooth, short-haired or even rough
ColorAny color (Black, white, cinnamon, yellow)
TypePurebred
GroupSighthound
SizeLarge
Lifespan/ Life Expectancy12-15 years
Height23-26 inches
WeightMale: 60-65 lb
Female: 50-55 lb
Litter size6-8
Behavioral Characteristics Calm, gentle. Polite, quiet, laidback
Good with childrenYes
Climate compatibilityPrefer warm weather
BarkingMinimum
Shedding (Does it shed)Moderate
HypoallergenicUnknown
Competitive Registration Qualification/ InformationFCI, UKC
CountrySpain

Video of Spanish Galgo Puppies Playing

History

The Galgo not just comprises the Spanish Greyhound but even the Spanish dog. Their name has possibly been attained from “Canis Gallicus,” that stands for a Celtic dog in Latin.

There have been a lot of theories as far as their lineage is concerned, with speculations being that it might be a cross between the Irish Greyhound and Sloughi or even the Deerhound. This dog may have originated as early as the 9th and 10th century in Spain when it was primarily used as a hunting dog as well as for coursing hares, mostly kept by those belonging to the aristocratic classes. During that time interbreeding may have occurred between the Galgo as well as other sighthounds like the Saluki and Sloughi. These breeds were so esteemed that killing or stealing them was considered as a punishable offense. The Galgos have also appeared in mural paintings of the 12th century where they have been seen hunting. Besides art, these favorite dogs were even mentioned of in literature and hunting books. However, over the span, their importance diminished and they were mostly bred and kept by the lower classes. When their utility declined, cruel treatment was meted out to them. They were hung from trees, thrown into wells, and stuffed into garbage vans after being shot. Dog fanciers protested against such inhumanity with laws also being implemented.

At present, they have attained popularity as show dogs in Europe. They are, however, not much familiar in the United States, also not being recognized by the AKC and UKC.

Temperament and Personality

Galgos are just like the Greyhounds regarding temperament. They are perceived to be as quiet and shy dogs, with a gentle and calm disposition. These dogs are quite laidback, loving to spend most of their times relaxing and lazing on a couch. Since they are cat-friendly, these pets are ideal for feline lovers. They even get along well with smaller dogs if raised with them, though furred outdoor animals may trigger their chasing instinct. They are also extremely friendly towards kids and owing to their calm nature; these dogs would rarely knock down the little ones when interacting with them. Owing to their reserved and shy temperament, they might be wary towards strangers.

Care

Exercise

Though they can thrive well in apartments, these dogs have moderate exercise needs, being satisfied with a walk or a run for about 30 minutes daily. They would be your perfect jogging partner, keeping pace with you. However, after a workout regime, they would be an absolute couch potato. While taking it out make sure to leash it so that it does not run at the sight of prey. If you have a large yard, keep it fenced, though an underground electric fence is not your Greyhound might run right over it at the sight of a game, putting itself at the risk of an electric shock.

Grooming

Being easy to maintain, these breeds need to be brushed on a weekly basis with a rubber curry brush or a hound neat for its coat to be kept clean. Bathe him when needed using a dog shampoo.  Other grooming needs include cleaning its eyes and ears, trimming its nails as well as brushing its teeth to ward off any infection. Like other greyhound breeds, this one too might be sensitive on its feet being touched, so be careful while doing it.

Health Problems

Though healthy and hardy in general like other sighthounds, they might incur muscle injuries while running. They can even be a little sensitive to anesthesia.

Training

Socialization: Since the Spanish Greyhound tends being reserved and shy, imparting socialization training to the puppies is of utmost importance. Invite friends and acquaintances at your place since the time you have brought your puppy home so that he gradually gets used to them. You can even ask guests to carry a treat so that your puppy associates goodies with meeting unfamiliar people. However, it is essential to teach him to differentiate the good from the bad so that he can identify a friend and a foe and not get lured by treats from everyone.

Obedience: Teaching it commands like “come,” “stay,” and “stop” since the time it is a puppy to keep its chasing instinct under control.

Feeding

Feeding your Spanish Greyhound with good quality dog food as well as a diet rich in protein and vitamin is essential to keep it physically and mentally energized.

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