Rasstandaarden

Perdigueiro Português

Portuguese Pointing Dog

Portugal.

04.11.2008.

Hunting dog.

Group 7 - Guardian
,Section 1 : Continental Pointing Dogs
,1.1 'Braque' type
,With working trial

Portuguese Kennel Club. Revised by Jennifer Mulholland & Renée Sporre-Willes.

The Portuguese Pointing Dog originates from the Iberian Peninsula, descending from the old Peninsular Pointing Dog, a common ancestor to other pointing dogs. It evolved by adapting to the climate, terrain and game and from the selection imposed by the socio-cultural specificity of the Portuguese, who have been breeding it for centuries for hunting purposes. The breed conserved the morphological and functional traits similar to those existing nowadays.
Its existence in Portugal can be traced back to at least the 12^th century. In the 14^th century it was known as the “podengo de mostra”, already showing the capacity for pointing game. It was bred in the royal and nobility kennels and used in falconry. In the 16^th century, already named “perdigueiro” (from “perdiz” the common Portuguese name for partridge), it was frequently used by commoners.
The definition of the current traits and dissemination by a group of breeders and hunters began in the first quarter of the 20^th century.

Medium sized dog, rectilinear, bracoïd type, strong but with an harmonious construction combined with great suppleness of movement. Seen from the side, the topline and underline form an elegant outline.

Square, or almost square body. The skull to muzzle ratio is 64; height at withers to depth of chest is 21.

Extremely kind and affectionate, hardy, capable of great endurance and devotion. Calm and very sociable, but somewhat haughty towards other dogs. Curious by nature, works with persistence and vivacity. Always a keen hunting dog that stays in close contact with the hunter.

In proportion to the size of the body, well built and harmonious in dimension, it gives the impression of being larger than it is. Slightly bulky, neither bony nor fleshy. Covered with loose, thin skin and without wrinkles.
Rectilinear in profile and square when seen from the front. Convergent longitudinal superior cranium-facial axes.

Straight, slightly arched in the upper third part, length not inferior to the head length, not very thick and with a short dewlap in the throat. It should join the head gracefully at an angle of approximately 90º and the connection between neck and body should not be accentuated.

Natural: of medium length, not reaching below the hock. Straight, of medium set, thick at the base and slightly tapering to the tip. Well set in perfect continuity with the line of the croup. At rest it hangs naturally, but never between the thighs. In motion, it rises horizontally or slightly above the topline but never vertically or sickle-shaped. Wagging from side to side.
Docked: in order to cover the genitals without surpassing them.

With normal stride, easy and elegant. Polyvalent in its work and quite adaptable to diverse ground, weather and game, the movement switches between a simple suspension gallop and an extended, easy and rhythmic trot.

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog.