The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno at Westminster: It’s All About Love

Karen & Pirata

There’s a passionate romance between Portuguese Podengo Pequeno owners and their pets, and I admit I’m smitten. As many of you know, our little Sophie is a Podengo, albeit a scruffier and scrawnier one than most you’ll see. We love her all the more for it.  So, I’ve been waiting in anticipation for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show this year, to witness the Podengo class and see who gets top honors. And, to get a little Podengo love, of course!

Surprisingly, the field was a bit thin this year. Only three Podengos were showing. Two of them – Pirata and Moxie – I remembered from last year. Teasel was new for me. I arrived early so I could say hi to the dogs and owners/handlers I might know.

Karen Oglesby, Pirata’s mom and handler, I’d also met last year. We chatted about how cold she was, coming in from 80 degree weather in California. Pirata, which means pirate in Portuguese, stepped up to give his mom a cuddle and my heart melted.

Teasel & Pirata just before going into the ring

It was a bit of a family affair. Competitor Teasel, about to turn two years old,  is the daughter of four year old Pirata and owner/handler, Sandy Gillen, came in from Maryland with her. Moxie rounded out the bunch at three years old, walked by handler, Linda Thompson.

The little entrants await their cues

The competition was presided over by judge Michael J. Dougherty. As the lively group took to the ring, they scampered, jumped and finally settled down and began circling the ring with their handlers. The judge eyed them all carefully and inspected them, one by one, on the table.

Strutting in the ring

After one final look, he determined Pirata, show name Pirata II the Viamonte, as the best example of the breed. I was excited for Karen, as both the parent and handler. “I handle so many beautiful dogs,” she shared. “But, to win with your own dog is absolutely amazing!”

Karen Oglesby & her winning Podengo, Pirata

What’s up next for Pirata? “We’re going to consider whether to retire him now,” Oglesby said. “We traveled 42 weekends last year and he’s been traveling for two years.” How many awards has Pirata amassed during this time? “Last year, he was #2 [in the country]; the year before he was #1,” Karen said. “He won the National Specialty the first year they [the Podengos] were recognized, as well.” Wow!

Karen & Pirata cuddling

I look forward to seeing Pirata compete tonight at the Garden in the Hound Group! For me, Karen and the rest of the Podengo people, it is definitely all about love.

What do you think of dog shows?