Burgos Retriever

Dog breed

Overview

The Burgos Pointer (Spanish: Perdiguero de Burgos), also called the Burgalese Pointer, is a breed of dog native to Spain. Originating from Castile, especially in the province of Burgos, it is used for hunting, especially small game.

Temperament

Temperament: It is a gentle, quiet dog, and is rarely startled. It does not do well in urban environments. Due to their even temper they are very good with children. Their reactions are predictable, and a common description of their temperament is "noble".

It is intelligent and learns easily when it comes to hunting.

Appearance

Description: The figure of the Burgos Pointer is perhaps not so style crystallized as other breeds in their group (such as the English Pointer), but conveys a clear sense of robustness thanks to its port square. Things to note are their long ears and two folded sheets in the form of double chin. The tail is usually cut off a third of its original length.

Colour: It has two color variations: one where the basic color is stained and/or combined with other brown and brown, where the basic color is brown which is, in this case, white spotted.

Coat: The fur is short, bushy and smooth.

Height: Males from 62 to 67 centimetres (24 to 26 inches) and females from 59 to 64 centimetres (23 to 25 inches).

Care & Grooming

Care: If kept in its natural environment, care is rarely needed given its perfect adaptation to the environment. Like so many other breeds of hunting dogs, they require daily exercise and large doses of wide open spaces where they run.

History

History: The breed dates back to the 16th century and originates in the Castilian plateau, which is very widespread. It is very probable that the breed participated in the creation of other races of this group.

The breed is believed to have descended from a mix of the Sabueso Español and the Pachón Navarro (also known as the Perros de Punta Ibericos).

In 2026 it was among the sixteen Spanish breeds considered by the Real Sociedad Canina de España to be vulnerable.

Every pet is one of a kind. This guide covers what's typical for the breed, but your own dog or cat will have their own personality, quirks and needs — think of it as a friendly starting point, not the final word. Whenever you'd like advice tailored to your companion, the team at OC Pets is always happy to help.
Sources (reused under open licences, with thanks): Wikipedia — “Burgos Retriever” (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Wikidata (CC0) · image (CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons) · Compiled by OC Pets Veterinary Clinic, updated 15-06-2026.