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They can commonly be found near the islands' beaches or wandering the islands as stray dogs, but Potcakes are sometimes rescued by organizations or tourists and, despite their unknown gene pool, have since evolved into a breed with a common look. Though Potcakes are mixed breed dogs of unclear descent, many share similar traits with one another, and we'll help you recognize common Potcake traits.
Physical Structure
Check the dog's size. Without a strict breed standard, Potcakes can greatly vary in size from less than 25 pounds (11 kg) to as much as 100 pounds (45 kg) or more, though they are typically described as medium-sized dogs. A general size seen in Potcakes is between 35–55 pounds (16–25 kg), with a height of about 22–24 inches (56–61 cm) when fully grown.
Look at the ears. Potcakes are usually seen with either cropped or folded ears. Some ears are cropped in a "helicopter" style.
Examine the eyes. The eyes of a Potcake are described as expressive and intelligent. A Potcake's eyes aren't one specific color, but they wear much of their emotion in their eyes.
View the muzzle. A common trait seen in Potcakes is a long muzzle. The muzzle may resemble that of a terrier or hound.
Understand that Potcakes vary in structure. Potcakes all generally appear similar, but there are differences among them. Their features vary to some extent, and dogs from different islands may have different overall appearances. There is no set appearance that every Potcake has.
Coat
Look at their coat's texture and appearance. Potcakes generally have short, smooth coats with little to no undercoat. However, a Potcake with a shaggy or long coat may be seen, though this is rarer.
Recognize the coat color. The coat of a Potcake may be one of many colors. Brown is perhaps the most commonly seen coat color, and other colors include red, yellow, cream, black, and white.
Identify coat patterns. Potcakes may be seen with a wide variety of coats. Though many are a solid color, some are combinations of multiple colors (such as black and tan), parti, or other patterns.
Temperament
Take notice of survival instincts. Many Potcakes are street dogs, so anticipate strong survival instincts from one. Even domesticated Potcakes have come to inherit these instincts.Did you know? Potcakes were named after their original food source, which was the caked remains of pot rice and pea dishes. As strays on the streets, they had to beg for this food, and likely because of this, they are known for having especially tough stomachs and can supposedly handle some foods that other dog breeds can't.
Watch for intelligence. Not only do Potcakes have "street smarts", but they're all-around intelligent dogs. They respond well to training and are fairly easy to train compared to other breeds. EXPERT TIP Colleen Demling-Riley, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC Colleen Demling-Riley, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC Canine Behavior Consultant Colleen Demling-Riley (CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC) is a Canine Behavior Consultant and the Founder of Pawtopia Dog Training. With more than 20 years of experience, she specializes in creating and customizing dog management programs for dog owners. She is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed, Certified Behavior Consultant Canine-Knowledge Assessed, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, and American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. Colleen is a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals and has been a featured expert in national media including the New York Times, Woman’s Day, Readers Digest, Cosmopolitan, and Yahoo.com. Colleen Demling-Riley, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC Colleen Demling-Riley, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC Canine Behavior Consultant Potcakes are intelligent, quick learners and easy to train. Despite their origin as street dogs, Potcakes are known for their loving and affectionate personality. They enjoy being around their owners and are friendly towards strangers.
Recognize adaptability. Potcakes are highly adaptable dogs. Despite being street dogs, they're quick to adapt if they're taken to a new home and only take a short amount of time to adjust to the new environment.
See if the dog is affectionate. Most Potcakes are very loving and affectionate. Once someone gains their trust, Potcakes show extreme loyalty and care toward them. Some Potcakes may occasionally show signs of timidity or aggression, though this is not entirely common.
Look for a desire to be around people. Despite being street dogs, Potcakes enjoy having the company of humans. They seem to bond almost immediately with people.
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