According to the data offered by the Royal Canine Society of Spain there are officially up to 23 breeds of Spanish dogs. However, according to other canine federations, there are more than 40 recognized dog breeds that are indigenous to Spain. In this article you will get to know some of the most famous Spanish dog breeds. How many of them will you meet? Take a look at its features!

The Spanish greyhound is known among all the greyhound breeds for its stylized appearance and, unfortunately, for the serious abuses that it still suffers today in some places and sectors of Spain. Hundreds of greyhounds are abandoned and euthanized each year and this usually occurs late in the hunting season, or when they are no longer useful for greyhound racing. But if there is something that really makes the Spanish greyhound stand out, it is that it is considered one of the fastest dog breeds in the world.

The origins of the Spanish greyhound date back to the 2nd century BC. C. This greyhound stands out for its streamlined, slim and strong body. In addition, it has a short and smooth coat that can be found in different shades, such as dark or light brown, black, and even reddish white.

Regarding the care of the Spanish greyhound, you should focus on walks, sufficient exercise, rest and taking care of its body temperature, especially in cold climates. The Spanish greyhound is recognized by the FCI (International Cynological Federation).

  • Ibizan Hound

The Ibizan Hound is originally from the island of Ibiza, but it is also found in the rest of the Balearic islands. It is a primitive breed of dog suspected of having been introduced by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and Romans. This breed of dog was originally developed for hunting rabbits. Known for its prodigious nose, it measures between 67 and 72 centimeters at the withers.

The Ibizan Hound has a soft, short or long coat, which varies in color from fiery tones mixed with white and is recognized by the FCI.

  • Spanish water dog

The Spanish water dog, originally from Cantabria, although it can also be found in Andalusia. The Spanish water dog is said to be a descendant of the ancient “Barbet”, and is known as a popular breed of sheepdog in Spanish territory.

This medium-sized breed of Spanish dog measures between 40 and 50 cm at the withers and has a thick, curly and woolly coat of hair. The breed standard is recognized by the FCI.

  • Pachón Navarro

The Pachón Navarro is a large Spanish hunting dog that usually reaches 60 cm at the withers, weighing approximately 30 kilograms. It is an active breed of dog, with droopy ears and a short, smooth coat. This large breed of dog is recognized by the Royal Canine Society of Spain.

  • Andalusian winemaker buzzard

The Andalusian Wine Buzzard, sometimes also known as the Spanish Jack Russel, originated in Andalusia to chase mice in stables and warehouses. This breed of medium Spanish dog was also used to hunt rabbits and hares. It is an athletic and compact breed of dog, and has a short white coat on most of its body, except for the head, which is black. The breed is recognized by the Royal Canine Society of Spain.

  • Pyrenean Mastiff

The Pyrenean Mastiff is a high mountain dog of Spanish origin. It has been widely used for guarding and defense, formerly to protect herds from the presence of wolves and bears. We are talking about an affectionate, noble, courageous and very active dog. It can reach a considerable height, exceeding 72 cm in females and 77 cm in males. They are recognized by the FCI.

  • Basque Shepherd

The Basque Shepherd Dog, also known as “Euskal Artzain Txakurra” is a breed of Basque dog, originally used to herd sheep and cows. It is an attentive, vigilant and intelligent Spanish canine breed. The Basque Shepherd Dog is characterized by its medium size and floppy ears. It wears a semi-long and smooth coat, commonly light brown in color. It is recognized by the RSCE.

  • Maneto

The Maneto is another breed of Spanish hunting dog that was originally used for rabbit hunting activity. These dogs are characterized by their small size, short legs, and agile body. However, they do best as hunting dogs in areas with sparse, low vegetation (due to their small legs). This breed of dog, native to Andalusia, is very friendly and active. The breed is recognized by the Royal Canine Society of Spain.

  • Spanish hound

The Spanish hound is a breed of dog whose origins date back to the fourteenth century, when it was used for hunting, both large and small, specifically, deer, wolves, wild boars or rabbits. This medium-sized breed of dog has a short coat and a somewhat sad facial expression. It is between 48 and 57 cm tall and its coat is white and orange. It is recognized by the FCI.

  • Burgos Perdiguero

The Burgos retriever was developed in Castilla y León. It stands out for being a strong, obedient and especially calm breed of dog. It is part of the great list of Spanish dog breeds, reaching between 59 and 67 cm at the withers. It is also a breed recognized by the FCI.

  • Alano Spanish

The Spanish Alano is one of the most popular large-size Spanish dog breeds. This breed was formerly used for hunting big game and to guard and protect homes and large farms. This large breed of Spanish dog, which can reach 60 centimeters at the withers and weighs 40 kilograms, normally has a short brown or tan coat.

Despite its popularity in the country, it is not recognized by the FCI, but it is listed by the Royal Canine Society of Spain.