Dogs in Portugal tend to have harder lives than their northern European counterparts. It is not uncommon to see abandoned dogs roaming around, or worse, chained up for most of the time, in less than satisfactory conditions.

Although this is considered normal here in Portugal by many, it is difficult for many visitors to see this treatment of dogs.

Portuguese keep dogs as primarily guard dogs, a paradox for us when we consider the very low crime rates in Portugal compared with many

other countries. The older generation keep their dog more or less permanently chained near the house, they bark when anyone passes and they all bark more at night as they set up a chorus.

The younger generation tend to keep their dogs loose outside their securely fenced and gated homes. Never, ever, try to enter the grounds of a house where the gates are closed. These dogs live outside the houses and are not treated as pets.

Many Portuguese, however, do have pet dogs, but even the professional classes are used to opening their doors in the early morning and just letting their dogs roam at will, only taking them back in again at night when the dogs return home.

Wherever you go in Portugal you must be aware around the next corner there may be several dogs laying in the road, sunning themselves and probably sound asleep. Drive with care, the dogs are very reluctant to move when they hear a car coming.

If you have the misfortune to have a car accident involving a dog, you should stop and try to locate the owner. In Portugal the owner is responsible for any damage their dog might cause. If you have taken out Portuguese car insurance this will not cover you for any accident involving a dog. If you do not locate the owner, or if he is unable to pay for any damage, you will have to pay the full cost yourself.