The Galgo Español: Elegance, history and challenges
The Spanish Greyhound: Origin and history
The Galgo Español, also known as the Spanish Greyhound, is a fascinating dog breed whose history dates back to the 6th century BC. The Celts brought greyhounds to the Iberian Peninsula and the Romans valued the Galgo Español as a hunting dog. The breed has many similarities with the Greyhound and is one of the ancestors of this noble sighthound.
In the Roman province of Hispania, the Galgo Español was called Canis Gallicus, which means “Gallic dog”. This later developed into the term “Galgo”, which simply means “greyhound”. Today, the Galgo Español is internationally recognized as a Spanish sighthound and is valued for its elegance, speed and hunting abilities.
Character and temperament: Gentle companion with a hunting instinct
The Galgo Español is not only known for its aesthetic appearance, but also for its gentle nature. Like many sighthounds, it is reserved and tolerable in the house as long as its urge to move is satisfied. However, this breed’s pronounced hunting instinct requires attention and understanding when it comes to training.
These sensitive dogs respond well to sensitive methods and patience. Hunting hares is the Galgo Español’s main area of activity, whereby its stamina and speed are particularly outstanding. Lure coursing and dog racing are ideal activities to keep the medium-sized greyhound mentally and physically active.
The truth about the life of the Galgo Español in Spain
Unfortunately, the Galgo Español has to contend with major problems in its home country of Spain. Once a status symbol, the breed is now a victim of mass breeding and cruel hunting practices. In Spain, thousands of Galgos are bred for hare coursing, often in connection with illegal betting.
After the hunting season, many of these dogs are abandoned or cruelly killed. Animal welfare organizations are working courageously for the welfare of these animals, rescuing them from precarious conditions and giving them a new life in Germany and other countries.
Galgo as an individual dog: a pack animal in need
The Galgo Español is a distinctive pack animal and keeping several dogs is particularly suited to its needs. In Germany, it is becoming increasingly common to meet rescued Galgos that have found a new home. These dogs need not only physical but also emotional support in order to build trust and feel comfortable in their new environment.
Challenges and needs of the breed
For a long time, hunting was the Galgo Español’s purpose in life and its hunting instinct is still strong today. Keeping this breed therefore requires a lot of exercise and free running in safe areas.
Animal welfare organizations emphasize that Galgos are very social animals that require loving and sensitive training. Despite the tragic situation in Spain, here in Germany the breed is proving to be an adaptable family dog that gets on well with other dogs.
FAQ: Life expectancy and health
The life expectancy of a Galgo Español is between 12 and 15 years. The breed is generally considered healthy, but it is important to know that joint problems can occur, especially if the dog was not properly nourished at a young age. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are therefore essential to ensure the health of these elegant greyhounds.
Conclusion: Unique and lovable
The Galgo Español not only impresses with its imposing appearance, but also with its gentle nature. Despite the tragic circumstances in Spain, more and more of these noble greyhounds are finding new homes in Germany.
This breed needs special attention and understanding, both for its history and for its individual needs. With love, patience and a safe environment, Galgos can become loyal companions and be given a second chance at a happy life.
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