The Perdiguero de Burgos is one of Spain’s most historic sporting breeds, with roots that stretch back to the early 1500s. Originating in the province of Burgos, in the heart of Castile and León, the breed developed alongside the traditions of Spanish hunting and quickly became an indispensable companion in the field.
For centuries, hunting was not only a way of life in rural Spain but also a practice deeply tied to culture and survival. Hunters needed a dog that was steady, reliable, and versatile—able to locate game, hold a firm point, and retrieve both on land and in water. The Perdiguero de Burgos was shaped by these needs, and over time it became highly regarded for its exceptional nose, endurance, and cooperative nature.
By the 16th and 17th centuries, written records and artwork already documented pointing dogs in Spain, and the Perdiguero gained recognition for its role in partridge, quail, and dove hunting. Its calm, trainable temperament and steady work ethic made it equally valued by noble hunters and everyday sportsmen.
The breed’s population remained strong for centuries, but the 20th century brought challenges. The Spanish Civil War, the decline of rural hunting traditions, and the increasing popularity of foreign breeds caused numbers of Perdiguero de Burgos to fall sharply. By the mid-1900s, it was at risk of disappearing. Fortunately, dedicated Spanish breeders recognized the breed’s cultural and sporting importance. Through careful conservation efforts and kennel clubs committed to maintaining standards, the Perdiguero was revived and preserved.
Today, the Perdiguero de Burgos is recognized internationally as a rare but treasured pointing breed. While still relatively uncommon outside of Spain, it has found admirers across Europe and the Americas for its combination of elegance, intelligence, and versatility in the field. Loyal, even-tempered, and deeply connected to its hunting roots, the Perdiguero de Burgos stands as a living piece of Spain’s sporting heritage—an ancient breed still proving its worth to modern hunters and families alike.
