Spanish Galgo

Many dog lovers are enamored with the Spanish Galgo, also known as the Galgo Español. With a rich history spanning centuries, these sighthounds are renowned for their grace and elegance. Originally domesticated for hunting, they have grown to be cherished family members in many homes worldwide.

The slender, athletic build of the Galgo is one of their most noticeable characteristics. They have a streamlined body and long legs, making them fast and agile. They are therefore fantastic runners, but it also means they require a lot of exercise to maintain their happiness and health. To keep them happy, take them for a long walk or a good romp in the park.

The Galgo has a kind and loving disposition in addition to their attractive appearance. They make excellent family pets because they are typically peaceful and amiable. Even though they can be a little reserved at first, people who are kind to them usually win them over quickly. They are wonderful companions because of their love and loyalty.

Although a Galgo’s needs are similar to those of any breed, their upkeep is quite simple. It’s crucial to provide your dog with a balanced diet, frequent veterinary exams, and dog socialization. They flourish in houses where they can live as members of the family and spend quality time with their humans during playtime and relaxation.

The Galgo has become more well-known outside of Spain in recent years as more people become aware of their allure and personality. In addition to bringing a devoted companion into your home, adopting or fostering a Galgo also contributes to awareness-building regarding the breed’s past hardships and the necessity of rescue efforts. These canines genuinely merit a caring, forever home.

General characteristics of the Spanish Galgo breed

These dogs’ relatives are greyhounds, and they descended from the ancient Arabian greyhounds. Spanish greyhound is how the term galgos espanol is translated. In Spain, these are the most favored hunting dogs. They were occasionally employed as shepherds in the past. They now take part in dog racing and coursing events. The Spanish greyhound, or Spanish galgo, is another name for the breed.

Pros

The Spanish Galgo is a loyal, kind, and intelligent dog. This breed is meant for hunting, but it can also make a great companion. The following benefits apply to these canines:

• hardy, active;
• passionate and purposeful when hunting;
• kind, not aggressive;
• get along well with children;
• loyal, very attached to the owner;
• sensitive, affectionate;
• fearless, always ready to protect the owner;
• playful, athletic, love to swim, run.

Cons

However, not everyone is a good fit for this breed. Galgos require vigorous walks and exercise. They require dialogue and consideration. The upkeep of these dogs has the following drawbacks to be aware of:

• they do not tolerate loneliness;
• sensitive, prone to stress;
• need special nutrition;
• prone to escape.

History of the origin of the breed

The earliest records of dogs resembling Spanish Galgo date back to approximately the fifth century BC. However, some scientists think that these are descended from Arabian greyhounds that the Moors brought to the Iberian Peninsula. The breed underwent distinct development. Portuguese greyhounds and Arabian greyhounds both contributed to its development, even though Podenco Ibizanco’s breed did not.

These dogs assisted in the hunting of foxes and wild boars in addition to being bred for hare hunting. They are ideal for use in mountainous regions, both on level and uneven terrain. The Middle Ages saw a notable increase in the popularity of this breed. In an attempt to create lighter, faster dogs, they started crossing it with the greyhound, but this variety has not taken off in Spain. Scholars surmise that the Spanish galgos served as the model for the English greyhound’s breeding.

Despite being the pride of the nation, Spanish galgos were only given official recognition in 1971. At that time, a standard was created. It distinguishes between two types: wire-haired and smooth-haired. Galagos are now primarily found in Spain and other southern European nations; they are hardly ever found in other areas.

Many Spanish hunters still treat dogs with the same brutality they did in the Middle Ages. They don’t think of them as living things. A dog is just another hunting object to them. Greyhounds are frequently housed in appalling conditions. They are killed or discarded when they are two to three years old because they are unable to carry out their duties perfectly. In Europe, a unique organization has been established to shield galgos from this kind of abuse.

Spanish galgos in the photos:

Description of appearance

Spanish Galgos have the elegant, slender build, slender legs, and narrow muzzle of a sighthound. They are large breeds; males can reach heights of 70–72 cm and weigh no more than 30 kg.

Head

The head is long and narrow, with a pointed muzzle. Smooth stop, a tiny hump on the nose bridge. The earlobe is tiny and dark. The bite is scissor-shaped, and the jaws are powerful. The lips are dark, thin, and dry.

Almond-shaped, widely spaced, and somewhat slanted eyes are present. Any shade of brown can be used to color the iris. The eyes are sharp, the look friendly. The ears are semi-erect, triangular, and high set. Broad at the base, often pushed back. Dogs get excited and stand up.

Body

The neck is elongated, slender, flexible, and lacks prominent withers. The back is long and the body is muscular despite being thin. The belly is firmly picked up, and the chest is deep rather than broad. The tail is long, thin, and flexible, and the croup slopes downward.

Limbs

The long, thin limbs are arranged parallel. Elbows are pressed, and front legs are straight. The thighs are thick, the hindquarters are powerful, and they are slightly retracted. The toes are arched, and the paws are small, hare-like. The dog has a quick development rate.

Coat and color

The coat is thick and short. The thin, form-fitting hair type has silky hair. The wire-haired variety has loose, slightly wavy hair that grows into a mustache, crest, and beard on top of the head.

Any color can be used. The most typical are the two-toned ones with white dots. Brindle and black are also well-liked.

Disqualifying defects

The galgo’s appearance needs to adhere to the standard exactly. Occasionally, there are variations that prevent the dog from being shown and bred:

• malocclusion;
• short tail;
• wide skull;
• sharp stop;
• round, light eyes;
• small, erect ears;
• short neck;
• rough build.

Photos add context to the appearance description:

Character traits

The Spanish Galgo is a canine nobleman. He is patient, quiet, obedient, and reserved. Out of all the sighthound breed, these dogs are the most gentle and devoted. They form loving attachments to the owner and every member of the family. To do this, though, they must experience respect and love. Additionally, communication and getting in touch with the owners are crucial for the Galgo.

These dogs adore kids and gladly encourage play and enjoyment. They are patient and will never harm a child, but they can get stressed out by big noises and opportunities. They get along with cats and are calm around other pets despite their hunting instinct.

Galgos do not tolerate being petted and are wary of strangers. They are not hostile, but they will always defend their owner if they feel threatened. They are resilient, bold, and passionate. Hunting with discipline and vigor.

These dogs are highly perceptive and easily stressed. They require particular gentle training methods as well as early socialization. Talk to the puppy in a soft, collected tone of voice; avoid yelling. Despite the fact that the puppies are energetic, lively, and inquisitive and frequently break things, harsh treatment and physical punishment are not permitted.

Galgos are proud and vulnerable, and they frequently exhibit independence and stubbornness, so it’s important to be patient and persistent when training them. However, when given positive reinforcement, they pick up basic commands quickly. It is advised to train your pet on dog playgrounds as skills are better learned in a pack.

The Spanish galgo is a simple fish that can adapt to any kind of environment. He enjoys sleeping on the couch and will get along well in an apartment. However, since this is still a greyhound, lengthy walks are required. The dog should ideally run 15 km or more each day. She will be delighted to go for a run or bike ride with the owner.

Galgos are prone to escaping, so a high fence should be present when they are housed in a private residence. The pet needs to feel in contact with its owner, so it is best not to keep them in an enclosure for an extended period of time or to put them on a chain. These dogs are obsessed with water, so it’s advised to take them to natural areas with bodies of water more frequently. For a walk in the winter, you must wear overalls.

Galgo maintenance is easy:

• brush the fur once a week;
• wash the paws after walks;
• bathe no more than once every 2 months, if the dog gets dirty, you can wash it with clean water or wipe it with a damp towel;
• clean the ears from dirt and wax once every 1-2 weeks;
• trim nails as they grow.

Nutrition

Because of the unique qualities of their anatomy and physiology, these dogs require a particular diet. Foodstuffs should be high in protein and calories, not fat. This can be turkey, beef, or rabbit. Add vegetables and buckwheat or rice porridge to the meat. Giving your pet eggs, cottage cheese, kefir, and greens is a good idea. You must feed ultra-premium ready-made food designed for active breeds when you do.

Health

Galgos are robust, well-bred canines. Their immunity is strong, and they do not exhibit any genetic pathologies. Large breeds typically live 10–12 years, but they can live up to 12 years with proper care. The dog’s joints are its only weak point; dysplasia may occur. The Galgo’s digestive system is also troublesome; volvulus and indigestion are potential side effects.

Though frequently overlooked in favor of other breeds, the Spanish Galgo is deserving of more attention. These sighthounds, who are renowned for their grace and speed, have a long history of hunting and camaraderie. They make excellent pets because of their loving disposition and gentle nature, especially for people who value having a dependable and peaceful companion.

Beyond their attractive appearance, Galgos are remarkably resilient. Many people have experienced difficulties in the past, frequently as a result of neglect. In addition to giving a Galgo a loving home, adopting them enables you to share in their inspirational path to recovery and happiness.

Enjoying long walks, cuddles on the couch, and the thrill of watching them dart around in a secure area are all part of having a Spanish Galgo as a pet. They could come across as reticent at first, but when given time and affection, they open up to being playful and loving. They are distinguished in the world of dogs by their distinct personalities and understated elegance.

If you’re thinking about bringing a pet into your home, the Spanish Galgo provides a special and fulfilling experience. They are companions who thrive on love and understanding, not just pets. You are enhancing your life and giving a worthy dog a second chance when you decide to adopt a Galgo.

Spanish Galgos are a rare breed with a lengthy history that are renowned for their amazing speed and elegant appearance. Despite their loving nature and loyalty, these gentle dogs—who were originally bred for hunting—are frequently misinterpreted and ignored in shelters. This post will discuss the history, traits, and reasons why the Galgo is deserving of a particular place in our hearts and homes.

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