Ibizan Hound

With a supple body and long lean legs, the Ibizan Hound is the picture of grace and power. Natural hunters, these beautiful dogs have been hunting rabbits and small game for thousands of years and are still at it today. Their polite, loving, and calm nature blend well with their focus, strength, and determination. This ancient breed is a beautiful and accomplished addition to any family. Read on to learn more about the Ibizan Hound.

Description of the Ibizan Hound

The Ibizan Hound has a uniquely pleasing appearance. From its symmetrical and clean-cut body, to its large and erect ears, and short, softly-colored coat, this breed is both beautiful to look at and beautiful to watch.

Bred to hunt rabbits on the small Spanish island of Ibiza, these dogs are one of the fastest and most agile breeds around. They need to be quick and light to catch their fast-footed prey. This speed and power are all wrapped up into a strong, but not overly muscled, body.

But while these dogs are a true force to be reckoned with on the hunt, when off-duty they make quiet and docile companions. Their small, wide-set eyes display an almost deer-like expression, and are always alert and curious. The Ibizan Hound also comes in two types of coat: smooth and wire-haired. But both have similarly course texture, and all Ibizan Hounds come in either red or white, or a combination of the two.

Life Expectancy and Size

Clearly there are some good genes in this breed, as they have been around for over 3,000 years. Their average lifespan of 11 – 14 years is usually full of many long and happy times. However, it is important to recognize that, like all breeds, the Ibizan Hound can be prone to certain illnesses, so always work with a reputable breeder and be prepared.

A perfect mid-size breed, the Ibizan Hound is large enough to put up with anything but still small enough to curl up next to, or on, you at the end of the day. Males stand 23.5 – 27.5 inches tall, and weigh 50 pounds; while females stand 22.5 – 26 inches tall, and weigh 45 pounds.

Protective Ability

The large ears of the Ibizan Hound are not just for show. They are excellent at picking up sound, and when you see them twitching you will know your dog hears something interesting. While he may not bark to alert you to strangers, he is always vigilantly watching and listening. This makes the Ibizan Hound a decent watchdog, but their even-tempered and sweet nature keeps them from being good guard dog material. They may be reserved around strangers, but are quick to become friends.

Training

The Ibizan Hound is intelligent and quite capable when it comes to training. Using games, positive reinforcement and treats is the best recipe for success when it comes to training your dog. They are a thoughtful and gentle breed, so they need kind and patient treatment in their training.

It is also helpful to keep training sessions short in order to be as efficient as possible. Because of their hound blood, this breed also makes an excellent candidate for many canines sports, including lure coursing, agility, and obedience.

Early socialization is also a great way to introduce your pup to many situations so that he doesn’t become shy or timid.

Energy Level

An excellent hunter and truly spectacular sprinter, the Ibizan Hound is a breed that has a certain reserved energy. They need plenty of daily exercise and love to play, but are calm and even. Providing them with plenty of opportunities to play and bond with you will keep them mentally stimulated, fit, and happy.

But these dogs also love their creature comforts in life, and have no problem relaxing on their soft pillow for large stretches of time. You will find a well-balanced friend in the Ibizan Hound

What Living with an Ibizan Hound is Like

This is a versatile breed.

These dogs are natural hunters that also make affectionate family members. Their sweet temperament and ability to bond closely with their humans makes them a great choice for those looking for a loving but still independent dog.

The Ibizan Hound is a great companion for those who enjoy being active. They can be a playful and energetic breed and enjoy plenty of daily exercise, especially when they get to do it with their owner! Be ready to commit lots of time everyday to your dog’s physical needs.

Sedentary families will find themselves off the couch and out the door more often with this breed. Their playfulness is contagious, and giving them a thorough workout goes from being tiring to being fun. But these dogs also like their quiet time, and you’ll find that they enjoy cuddling up to you, or hanging around the family during downtime.

Care of the Ibizan Hound

The Ibizan Hound is a natural athlete that and enjoys moving. As long as they are provided with plenty of daily exercise, their sweet and gentle nature is well suited to many different homes.

Environmental Needs

The Ibizan Hound, bred for the hot Mediterranean temps, is well adapted to hot weather. This dog’s thin coat and light colors do well to keep them cool on blistering days, but the same cannot be said for cold weather. The Ibizan cannot stay warm enough in cooler temps, so limiting time outside and providing him with a jacket are good ways to keep him comfortable in the cold.

Exercise Needs

These dogs are excellent sprinters that love to move. Moderate to high exercise is needed everyday to keep them fit, happy, and mentally stimulated. This can be everything from long walks to canine sports, to backyard playtime. Involving yourself is also a great way to bond with your dog.

The Ibizan Hound was created for the chase, and this instinct is still alive and well in them today. This breed can jump more than five feet, so having a tall fence and keeping them on leash when walking is important for their safety.

Shedding and Grooming

The Ibizan Hound comes in both smooth and wire-haired varieties. This breed sheds little, so brushing weekly is usually enough to keep his coat looking shiny and healthy.

Check their ears regularly and brush teeth as often as possible to avoid health problems.

Ideal Home Environment

The Ibizan Hound is a calm and sweet dog that loves to be playful, but also curl up with the family. As long as they are given plenty of daily exercise and attention this breed can do well anywhere. Their quiet demeanor makes them a good choice for apartments, but they also do well in homes with kids.

These dogs are attentive and vigilant so can make good watchdogs, but tend to be too kind and aloof to be guard dogs.

Health Concerns

The Ibizan Hound is often healthy but can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia, eye disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, and congenital deafness are all problems that can affect this breed. Working with a reputable breeder who screens for potential health issues and regular check-ups is a good way to be prepared and treat or prevent diseases.

Behavior Problems

The Ibizan Hound is a great chaser. They will instinctively follow their nose and can get into trouble. Having a high fence and keeping them on leash when walking will keep them from wandering off.

These dogs can become timid if not socialized early so start young to keep them open and outgoing. This breed can naturally be aloof, that is normal, but shouldn’t be shy or wary.