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Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26

Ameera Mills
By Ameera Mills. Updated: July 30, 2024
Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26
Dogs

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According to the Spanish Royal Canine Society there are officially 23 breeds of Spanish dogs. However, according to other canine federations, there are over 40 recognized dog breeds that are native to Spain. Do you know which dogs make up the 40 Spanish dog breeds? If not, you’ve come to the perfect place!

Keep reading here at AnimalWised and discover our list of 26 Spanish Dog breeds, characteristics and picture included!

You may also be interested in: Top Dog Breeds Starting with A
Contents
  1. Spanish Greyhound
  2. Podenco Canario
  3. Valencian Podenco
  4. Ibizan Hound
  5. Andalusian Hound
  6. Andalusian Hound Maneto
  7. Spanish water dog
  8. Spanish hound
  9. Pachón Navarro
  10. Burgos Pointer
  11. Ratonero bodeguero andaluz
  12. Gos Rater Valencià
  13. Majorca Ratter
  14. Alano Español
  15. Pyrenean Mastiff
  16. Spanish Mastiff
  17. Presa canario
  18. Dogo Mallorquín
  19. Catalan Sheepdog
  20. Majorero
  21. Garafian Shepherd
  22. Carea Leonés
  23. Basque Shepherd dog
  24. Majorca Shepherd dog
  25. Galician Shepherd dog
  26. Villano de las Encartaciones
See more >>

1. Spanish Greyhound

The Spanish greyhound stands out among all of the greyhound breeds for its stylized appearance and, unfortunately, for the serious abuse it currently suffers in Spain. Hundreds of greyhounds are abandoned and slaughtered annually and this occurs at the end of the hunting season or when they are no longer useful for greyhound racing. The Spanish greyhound is also considered one of the fastest dog breeds in the world.

The origins of the Spanish greyhound date back to second century BC. Like other dog breeds, over time it has undergone incredible changes. It’s noticeable for its stylized, thin and strong body. In addition, it has a short and smooth coat that can appear in different shades, such as dark or light brown, black, white and reddish.

Spanish greyhound care should focus on walks, sufficient exercise, rest and mantle care, especially in cold climates. The Spanish greyhound is recognized by the FCI.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 1. Spanish Greyhound

2. Podenco Canario

The Podenco Canario, also known as the Canary Island hound, is a dog breed endemic to the Canary Islands and was traditionally used for rabbit hunting. This dog breed has an excellent sense of smell, vision and hearing.

It forms part of the large Spanish dog breeds, reaching between 53 and 60 centimeters at the cross. The canary Podenco is recognizable by its pointy ears and tight plain mantle, of intense red (in color) with white spots. The Canary island hound is recognized by the FCI and the Spanish Royal Canine Society.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 2. Podenco Canario

3. Valencian Podenco

The Valencian podenco, as its name suggests, is originally from the region of Valencia, Spain and is also known as "Xarnego". This Spanish dog breed was originally used for rabbit hunting and currently stands out for being an incredibly active dog.

It’s characterized by its short and smooth brown/fire coat which can at times present white spots, especially on the abdomen and legs. This dog breed is not recognized by the FCI, however, the Spanish Royal Canine Society is considering accepting it and has already made a standard proposal.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 3. Valencian Podenco
Image: www.caninacostadelsol.es

4. Ibizan Hound

The Ibizan hound, also known as the Ibizan Warren hound, is native to the islands of Mallorca, Ibiza, Formentera and Menorca. It is a primitive dog breed suspected of being introduced by the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians and the Romans. This dog breed was originally developed for rabbit and game hunting. Known for its prodigious nose, it also measures between 67 and 72 centimeters at the cross.

The Ibizan hound carries a smooth short or long coat which varies in color from firey-tones mixed with white and is recognized by the FCI.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 4. Ibizan Hound

5. Andalusian Hound

The Andalusian hound is one of the most well-known Spanish hunting dog breeds. It is characterized by its medium stature with pointed ears and an elongated snout. Its semi-long and somewhat wooly coat is light in chestnut or yellow. The Andalusian hound has been recognized by the Spanish Royal Canine Society since 1992.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 5. Andalusian Hound

6. Andalusian Hound Maneto

The Andalusian Hound Manteno is another hunting Spanish dog breed which was originally used for hunting rabbits. These dogs are characterized by their small size, short legs and agile body. They do, however, perform better as hunting dogs in areas with sparse and low vegetation (due to their little legs). This dog breed, native to Andalusia, is both friendly and active. It is recognized by the Spanish Royal Canine Society.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 6. Andalusian Hound Maneto
Image: www.caninacostadelsol.es

7. Spanish water dog

The Spanish water dog, native to Cantabria (north of Spain) can also be found in Andalusia.It is said that the Spanish water dog is a descendant of the old "Barbet," and is known as a popular Spanish shepherd dog breed.

This medium-sized Spanish dog breed measures between 40 and 50 cm at the cross and carries an abundant, curly and woolly mantle. The breed standard is recognized by the FCI. For more about this lovely dog breed, we recommend reading our article where we discuss everything you need to know about caring for a Spanish water dog’s coat.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 7. Spanish water dog

8. Spanish hound

The Spanish hound or Sabueso Español is a dog breed whose origins date back to the fourteenth century, when it was used for hunting both large and small animals. This medium-sized dog breed has a short coat and somewhat sad facial expression. It measures between 48 and 57 cm in height at the cross and its mantle is white and orange. It is recognized by the FCI.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 8. Spanish hound

9. Pachón Navarro

The Pachón Navarro is a large Spanish hunting dog breed which usually reaches 60 cm at the cross, weighing at approximately 30 kilograms. It is active dog breed with fallen ears and a short, tight and smooth coat. This Large spanish dog breed is recognized by the Spanish Royal Canine Society.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 9. Pachón Navarro
Image: pachonnavarrodelcastillo.blogspot.com

10. Burgos Pointer

The Burgos pointer, also known as the Burgalese Pointer or Perdiguero de Burgo, was developed in Castilla y León. It stands out for being a strong, obedient and especially quiet dog breed. It forms part of the large Spanish dog breeds list, reaching between 59 and 67 cm at the cross. This breed is recognized by the FCI.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 10. Burgos Pointer

11. Ratonero bodeguero andaluz

The Ratonero bodeguero andaluz, sometimes also referred to as the Spanish Jack Russel, was developed in Andalucia to chase mice from horses and warehouses. This medium Spanish dog breed was also used to hunt rabbits and hares. This dog breed is both athletic and compact, carrying a short white coat on almost its entire body, except for the head. The breed is recognized by the Spanish Royal Canine Society.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 11. Ratonero bodeguero andaluz
Image: www.lasacristiadelcaminante.com

12. Gos Rater Valencià

The Gos Rater Valencià, also known as the Ratonero Valenciano, is a breed of terrier dog from Valencia. It was developed to rid plantations, farms and horse stables of mice. It is an athletic, muscular, agile and small Spanish dog breed. The color of the mantle come in different shades, among which the most common is a mixture of black, fire and white. It is only recognized only by the Spanish Royal Canine Society.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 12. Gos Rater Valencià

13. Majorca Ratter

The Majorca ratter, also known as the Ratonero mallorquin, is endemic to the Balearic Islands. The Majorca ratter is characterized by a stylized but compact body with strong legs. Its coat is smooth, short and black and brown in color.

It is recognized by the "Club Espanyol de Ca Rater Mallorquí".

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 13. Majorca Ratter

14. Alano Español

The Alano Español is one of the most popular large Spanish dog breeds. This breed of the molosser dog type was formerly used to hunt big game and to guard and protects homes and properties. This large Spanish dog breed, which can reach 60 centimeters at the withers and 40 kilograms in weight, has a short chestnut/fire mantle.

Despite its popularity, it is not recognized by the FCI but is listed by the Spanish Royal Canine Society.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 14. Alano Español

15. Pyrenean Mastiff

The Pyrenean Mastiff is a high mountain dog of Spanish origin. It has been used for guarding and defense, to protect herds from the presence of wolves and bears.

The Pyrenean Mastiff is a loving, noble, courageous and very active Spanish dog breed. It can reach a considerable height, exceeding 72 cm at the cross. It is recognized by the FCI.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 15. Pyrenean Mastiff

16. Spanish Mastiff

The Spanish mastiff is a grazing dog native to the rural Iberian Peninsula. Its origins are uncertain, but its presence was strengthened in the country between the mid-nineteenth century and the early twentieth century.

The Spanish Mastiff is characterized by its robust body and woolly dense coat of yellow coloration. It is recognized by the FCI.

For more about this large Spanish dog breed, we recommend reading our article where we discuss the differences between the English, French and Spanish Mastiffs.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 16. Spanish Mastiff

17. Presa canario

The Presa Canario, also known as the Canary Mastiff or Dogo Canario, is a national symbol of the Canary islands. This is an extremely ancient dog breed, known for its noble and faithful character. The Presa Canario is a big Spanish dog breed which can reaching between 56 and 66 cm at the cross. Sadly though, this breed, recognized by the FCI, is in danger of extinction.

For more about this large Spanish dog breed, we recommend reading our breed file where we discuss everything you need to know about the Canary Mastiff.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 17. Presa canario

18. Dogo Mallorquín

The Perro de Presa Mallorquin, also known as "Ca de Bou", is a Molossian-type dog breed with a sociable, obedient and calm nature. It is medium in size, reaching between 52 and 58 cm at the cross and is recognized by the FCI.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 18. Dogo Mallorquín

19. Catalan Sheepdog

The Catalan sheepdog, better known as gos d'atura Català, is dog breed native to Catalonia. Its origins, however, date back to Asia, from where they arrived to Europe.

This fluffy dog breed was officially recognized around 1919. It is characterized by its long and straight coat of varying shades. This calm dog breed is recognized by the FCI.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 19. Catalan Sheepdog

20. Majorero

The Majorero is a Spanish cattle dog breed from the Canary Islands. This Spanish dog breed, medium in size, is known for its great guardian skills, protecting livestock. Its coat color varies, but black and yellow chestnut are the most common.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 20. Majorero
Image: www.dogalize.com

21. Garafian Shepherd

The Pastor garafiano is a Spanish shepherd dog breed from the Canary Islands and is considered a great watchdog. This Spanish dog breed is known for its protective, faithful character and abundantly smooth fur. It is also characterized for its elongated snout and pointed ears.

It is recognized by the "Asociación Española Perro Pastor Garafiano".

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 21. Garafian Shepherd
Image: www.aeppg.es

22. Carea Leonés

The Carea leonés is a Spanish shepherd dog breeds, known for its active, intelligent and alert personality. It carries a medium and compact body with semi-erect ears and an elongated snout.

It is not recognized by any organization, although a standard of this bred has been proposed to the Spanish Royal Canine Society (RSCE).

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 22. Carea Leonés
Image: www.caninacostadelsol.es

23. Basque Shepherd dog

The Basque shepherd dog, also known as "Euskal Artzain Txakurra" is a Basque dog breed, originally used to shepherd sheep and cattle.It is an attentive, vigilant and intelligent Spanish dog breed. The Basque shepherd dog is characterized by a its medium size and drooping ears. It carries a semi-long and smooth coat, commonly light brown in color.

It is recognized by the RSCE.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 23. Basque Shepherd dog
Image: www.perrosogatos.es

24. Majorca Shepherd dog

The Majorca shepherd dog, also known as "Ca de Bestiar", is a domesticated dog breed from Mallorca. This Spanish shepherd dog stands out for its unmistakable black cloak. It is large in size and can measure between 62 and 73 cm at the cross. The Majorca Shepherd dog is recognized by the FCI.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 24. Majorca Shepherd dog

25. Galician Shepherd dog

The can de Palleiro, also known as the Galician Shepherd dog, is originally from Galicia. This Galician dog breed was originally developed for gracing and can reach 60 or 62 cm at the cross. It is currently recognized by the Club Can de Palleiro.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 25. Galician Shepherd dog

26. Villano de las Encartaciones

Ending our extensive Spanish dog breeds list, we present the Villano de Las Encartaciones. The Villano dog, originally from Vizcaya, was formerly used for big game hunting. This medium sized Spanish dog breed is characterized by its compact body structure and powerful jaw. It can measure between 55 and 63 cm at the cross.

It is currently only recognized by the "Club Nacional Del Villano De Las Encartaciones".

For more about Spanish dog breeds, we recommend reading our article about Potentially dangerous dogs in Spain.

Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26 - 26. Villano de las Encartaciones

If you want to read similar articles to Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26, we recommend you visit our Comparisons category.

Bibliography
  • Estándar-FCI N° 285, Galgo Español - Disponible en: http://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/285g10-es.pdf
  • Estándar RSCE Nº 329 / 03. 11. 1999 / E, Podenco Canario - Disponible en: https://www.rsce.es/es/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1382
  • Estándar-FCI N° 329, Podenco Canario - Disponible en: http://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/329g05-es.pdf
  • Estándar-FCI N° 89, Podenco Ibicenco - Disponible en: https://www.rsce.es/es/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1383
  • Estándar RSCE Nº 401, Podenco Andaluz - Disponible en: https://www.rsce.es/es/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1384
  • Estándar RSCE Nº 408, Maneto - Disponible en: https://www.rsce.es/es/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1385
  • Estándar-FCI N° 336, Perro de Agua Español - Disponible en: http://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/336g08-es.pdf
  • Estándar-FCI N° 204 , Sabueso Español - Disponible en: http://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/204g06-es.pdf
  • Estándar RSCE Nº 409, Pachón Navarro - Disponible en: https://www.rsce.es/es/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1388
  • Estándar-FCI N° 90, Perdiguero de Burgos - Disponible en: http://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/090g07-es.pdf
  • Estándar RSCE Nº 404, Bodeguero Andaluz - Disponible en: https://www.rsce.es/es/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1380
  • Estándar RSCE Nº 406, Ratonero Valenciano - Disponible en: https://www.rsce.es/es/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1381
  • Estándar RSCE Nº 406, Alano Español - Disponible en: https://www.rsce.es/es/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1379
  • Estándar-FCI N° 92, Mastín del&
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mayla
Thank you for posting this. Can you tell me if this dog breed are really come from some egyptian dog breeds that come oroginaly from egypt !
Administrador AnimalWised
Hi Mayla,

Which dog breed in particular do you mean?
Image: www.caninacostadelsol.es
Image: www.caninacostadelsol.es
Image: pachonnavarrodelcastillo.blogspot.com
Image: www.lasacristiadelcaminante.com
Image: www.dogalize.com
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Image: www.caninacostadelsol.es
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Spanish Dog Breeds- Top 26