September 11, 2026, 4:22 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
Few topics are as hotly debated among dog lovers as international animal rescue. While animal shelters in Germany are often at capacity, Spanish hunting dogs like Galgos and Podencos continue to find homes with German families. But why do so many of these animals need a new home in the first place? Author Nadine Buch explains this for PETBOOK. Behind the answer lies a story that many people are unaware of.
More Than Just Fast Runners
Those meeting a Galgo or Podenco for the first time are often surprised. Despite their athletic build, many of these dogs are considered exceptionally sensitive, intelligent, and people-oriented. Galgos often appear initially reserved or shy, especially if they’ve had bad experiences. However, once they trust you, they often become affectionate companions who enjoy the company of their humans and love to snuggle on the sofa or bed.
Podencos share many of these traits but are considered more independent. Many owners describe them as little clowns with a strong will. They are curious, creative, and often question commands rather than blindly following them. While Galgos are often very focused on their primary person, Podencos tend to maintain a bit more distance and independence.
Both breeds share a strong hunting instinct. Galgos primarily hunt by sight and react instantly to any movement. Podencos use not only their eyes but also their nose and ears. Therefore, a securely fenced area is particularly important for both breeds.1
Why So Many Galgos and Podencos End Up in International Animal Rescue
Galgos and Podencos have been selectively bred for hunting over generations. While Galgos are primarily used for hare hunting and greyhound racing, Podencos often work as versatile hunting dogs. In Spain, many of these animals are not kept as family pets but are viewed as working or utility animals.
Animal welfare advocates from organizations like VETO, the Association of European Animal Welfare Organizations, have reported problematic living conditions for years. Some dogs spend their lives in small kennels or sheds and receive only the bare minimum of care. If they fail to meet their owners’ expectations, they are often discarded. Especially after the hunting season ends, many animals end up on the streets or in shelters.2
The exact number of affected dogs is difficult to determine. However, animal welfare organizations estimate that tens of thousands of Galgos and other hunting dogs are abandoned or killed each year. At the same time, numerous Spanish and international organizations are working to rescue these animals and place them in responsible homes.
Is the Situation Improving for Spanish Hunting Dogs?
In recent years, the situation for Spanish hunting dogs has improved in some areas. Stricter laws against animal cruelty and the efforts of many animal welfare organizations have helped make abuses more visible. At the same time, the acceptance of Galgos as family pets is growing, especially in larger cities.
However, animal welfare advocates emphasize that sustainable change takes time. In addition to legal adjustments, many experts see education as a crucial key. Through educational projects, campaigns, and discussions with hunters, a long-term change in thinking is hoped for. For the dogs currently living in shelters or on the streets, however, this change often comes too late.
How sustainable is it to bring in animals from abroad?
Galgo Español: Why the Beautiful Greyhound Is So Hard to Tame
New Transport Law Makes It Harder to Place Galgos and Podencos
The tightening of the transport law now makes it even harder for these dogs to find new homes. Stricter driving and rest periods mean more stress for the animals. Additionally, adoption fees are rising, further tarnishing the reputation of international animal rescue. Animal welfare advocates are therefore calling on the European Parliament to exempt dogs from this regulation.
From Hunting Dog to Family Pet: The Second Life of Many Galgos
Seeing Galgos and Podencos on German dog parks today, it’s hard to believe the past many of these animals have endured. The sensitive dogs, who snuggle close to their humans or joyfully race across the field, were once bred solely for hunting. That they now lie on the sofa instead of in a kennel is thanks to their second life in animal rescue.
This fate also concerns animal psychologist and author Nadine Buch, who tells the story of a Galgo in her novella “Tränenstaub,” representing many Spanish hunting dogs.