Read About Ibizan Hound

The Ibizan Hound is remarkably agile and sensitive. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Medium-sized dog

2. Weight:

   40-55 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Wiry or smooth-coated (both are permissible)

4. Shedding:

   Average shedders

5. Temperament:

   Slightly sensitive, but friendly and happy. When they know someone, they get playful, but can be very shy around strangers.

6. Obedience:

   Very obedient, but highly emotional dogs. Training needs to be gentle and consistent. Once trained, very well behaved dogs.

7. Ease of Training:

   Anything in training that can be a game is particularly good for the Ibizan Hound. They are not hard to train; Ibizan Hounds just need a modulated voice and manner when teaching them.

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with children, as they love to play endlessly.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Hounds/1989

2. Size & Weight:

   22-28"; 40-55 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Wiry or smooth-coated (both are permissible)

4. Head & Muzzle:

   They have a long, lean sight-hound head, with impressive large ears that perk and swivel with their attention.

5. Body:

   Long, lean, well-muscled but without excessive definition. These are sleek, beautiful dogs,

6. Colors:

   Red and white in any combination. The red can be anything from quite pale to a lovely, dark russet.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-14 years

8. Popularity:

   Hounds just don't get any respect! The Ibizan Hound has a fairly low AKC popularity rating.

9. Habitat:

   Ibizan Hounds are sensitive emotionally and physically -- they need a loving home atmosphere and protection from cold, especially.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Ancient Egypt

2. Historical Information:

   It is said that ancient Phoenician traders brought these dogs from the Mideast to Ibiza, after an island off the coast of Spain. Ibizan Hounds are charming and playful, so they spread rapidly to mainland Europe, especially Spain and France. They have also gone by the following names: • the Charnique • the Balearic Dog • Ca Eibisenc • the Podenco Ibicenco

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Slightly sensitive, but friendly and happy. When they know someone, they get playful, but can be very shy around strangers.

2. Behavior:

   Happy, friendly dogs that love to play.

3. Habits:

   Ibizan Hounds are both sight and scent hounds, so

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   • Bleeding disorders (Von Willebrand's Syndrome, hemophilia, anemia) • Hyperthyroidism • Epilepsy • Eye disorders • Hip dysplasia

2. Exercise Needs:

   Ibizan Hounds need a great deal of exercise, and are extraordinary jumpers.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Ibizan Hounds have a hard coat, so need merely regular gentle brushing; note that they are highly sensitive to touch and sound.

4. Travel Needs:

   These are such sensitive breeds that travel may be a hardship on them.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Bred as a rabbit hound, the Ibizan Hound needs careful socialization and observation with other pets. Excellent with children as long as there isn't a lot of shouting going on. They'll just cower. Ibizan Hounds frequently cry if yelled at.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, sleek coats, and great playfulness. They are sensitive hunters, and this will be evident even in the puppies.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy. Keep in mind that Ibizan Hounds will hunt, so be sure their fencing is sturdy, reliable, and at least 6' high if they are off leash in a back yard.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.