Inguinal hernias in the Portuguese Podengo: Causes & Care

The Portuguese Podengo is a small dog breed from the Kennel Club’s hound group and a unique companion in the UK. These dogs are charming family pets and vigilant watchdogs, but like all breeds, they come with specific health considerations that future owners should understand.

Among the health concerns that affect the Portuguese Podengo more than some other breeds is the risk of inguinal hernias. This condition is primarily congenital, meaning it is present from birth due to hereditary factors in some bloodlines. Understanding this condition is crucial for owners to provide timely care and make informed breeding choices.

What is an inguinal hernia in the Portuguese Podengo?

An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue such as intestines or fat pushes through a weakness or gap in the muscle wall in the dog’s groin area. Specifically, it affects the inguinal canal, an anatomical passage through which reproductive vessels and structures pass.

Normally, the inguinal canal is a small, secure opening, but in dogs predisposed to hernias like the Portuguese Podengo, this canal can be congenitally weak or enlarged, allowing abdominal contents to bulge or protrude.

Which Portuguese Podengos are at risk?

Inguinal hernias in this breed tend to present in younger dogs and can affect both males and females. Dogs with relatives who have had inguinal hernias bear a higher risk due to the hereditary nature of the problem.

This makes informed breeding extremely important: dogs known to have hernias should not be bred to prevent passing on this predisposition to future litters.

Recognising the symptoms of an inguinal hernia

Since an inguinal hernia is an internal condition, symptoms can be varied and subtle, making early detection a challenge without a vet’s expertise. Some common signs owners might notice include:

• A soft swelling or bulge on one or both sides of the groin
• Swelling that becomes more pronounced during exercise, prolonged standing, or straining during toileting
• Signs that your dog is uncomfortable or in pain around the abdomen or groin
• Frequent or difficult urination, sometimes with blood in the urine
• Reluctance to exercise, decreased appetite, or changes in mood due to discomfort

Diagnosis and veterinary assessment

If you suspect your Podengo might have an inguinal hernia, timely veterinary assessment is vital. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and may include imaging techniques such as ultrasound or contrast X-rays to visualise the protruding tissue and assess the hernia’s severity.

Treatment options and prognosis

The definitive treatment for inguinal hernias in Portuguese Podengos is surgical repair. The operation involves:

1. Reducing the protruded abdominal contents back into the normal cavity
2. Removing any unhealthy or scarred muscle tissue
3. Suturing the inguinal canal opening to reduce its size
4. In some cases, implanting a mesh to strengthen the repair

With prompt surgery, the prognosis is excellent, and most dogs recover fully. Untreated hernias can become strangulated, cutting off blood supply and leading to severe pain, infection, or even fatal outcomes.

Preventing inguinal hernias in future Podengos

Currently, there is no guaranteed way to prevent congenital inguinal hernias as they are inherited. However, responsible breeding plays a key role in reducing risk. Avoid breeding dogs known to carry or have had hernias.

For female dogs, spaying can reduce the risk of developing pregnancy-related hernias.

Conclusion

Inguinal hernias are a significant health concern in the Portuguese Podengo breed due to a hereditary predisposition. UK owners and breeders should be vigilant for symptoms and seek veterinary advice promptly to ensure successful treatment.

Through responsible breeding and early diagnosis, the impact of inguinal hernias can be minimised, helping this delightful breed to thrive.