The Ibizan hound originated in Spain although its ancestors probably might have come from Egypt. This sight-hound is a prized hunting dog in its native country as well as all around the world. Known for its stunning elegance, the Ibizan hound is an intelligent and personable dog that has many admirers in and around the United States. Find out if this breed is right for your household!
Cool facts about the Ibizan Hound
- Ibizan hound is closely related to the Pharaoh Hound. There is little doubt that both these breeds have the same ancestors. Both breeds thus date back to nearly 5000 years.
- In Spain, the Ibizan hound is known as the Podenco Ibicenco or Charnique, and in Catalonia, as Ca Eivissenc.
- It is believed that Ibizan hounds are very particular about who they mate with. This has kept their bloodlines pure!
- They are excellent hunters; a pack of Ibizans can easily catch thousands of rabbits among themselves. They mainly hunt by sight, although they may also use scent and hearing. This superior hunter can easily bring down deer. Once it catches its prey, it can easily break its neck and then use its retrieving skills. The Ibizan hound can also easily relocate a lost prey by standing on its hind legs. They are amazing jumpers and can easily jump in 4-ft grass.
- Portuguese Warren hound is a close relative of the Ibizan hound.
Physical description
This is a beautiful, muscular dog breed that resembles a deer. The length is greater than the height and they have a characteristic light pigmentation and clean-cut, sleek lines. They have large erect ears, a deep chest, and a long arched neck. Ibizans carry their tail in a sickle, ring, or saber position. They come in two distinct coat types: smooth and wirehaired. People believe that there is a third coat variety called longhaired Ibizan but in reality that is just a variation of the wirehaired type.
Size
Height is between 22.5-27 inches and their weight is between 42 and 50 lbs.
Coat colors
For both smooth and wirehaired varieties, there are two coat colors; red and white, either in solid or in combination.
Ibizan Hound vs. Pharaoh Hound
Both these breeds are similar in temperament and they have the same ancestors. The Ibizan is usually has a white coat with brown markings whereas the Pharaoh hound is fully brown/tan/chestnut in color. Both breeds make excellent guard dogs and protection dogs. The Ibizan is a far superior hunter compared to the Pharaoh Hound. Both are sight-hounds and they rely on their sense of smell and well as sight. In Pharaoh Hounds, the deep brisket extends down to the point of the elbow whereas, in the Ibizan, there is a distance of 2.5 to 3 inches between the bottom of the rib cage and the elbow.
Temperament
The Ibizan hound is intelligent, easy to train, and friendly. However, he has strong hunting instincts that make them unsuitable for city dwellers and busy people. After all; this is not a breed that can remain cooped up indoors for long periods of time. He needs exercise and plenty of space to run. Many Ibizan hound owners keep their dogs outdoors but this is possible only if one lives in a temperate climate.
This dignified and independent dog is wary of strangers and can come across as aloof with the people he doesn’t know well. However, he is genuinely dedicated and loyal to his family members. While Ibizans are not aggressive or shy/timid, they do display a strong desire to chase smaller animals. As a result, you might want to reconsider your decision of bringing an Ibizan home if you already have small pets like kittens, hamsters, etc.
Although they love spending time outdoors, they will equally cherish taking naps on armchairs or tabletops. These dogs are excellent jumpers and no height is too high for them. So make sure you secure your yard as they won’t hesitate to jump outside. You may also want to train them to not jump on the furniture unless of course, you don’t mind them doing that.
Ibizans make pretty decent watchdogs as they will warn you about strangers with their loud barks. All these behaviors can differ from dog to dog and also depend on how you train your pet. Early socialization to other animals and humans, especially young kids, is a must if you want your Ibizan hound to get along well with children. When you introduce your Ibizan hound to children, make sure you do so under supervision. It is very important that your pet understands that the owners are the alphas or pack leaders. Most Ibizans get along well with children; provided kids understand how to interact with them. Owners must also teach their kids to respect their dogs.
If you plan on leaving your Ibizan home alone for several hours, then do make sure he has something to do. A bored Ibizan hound will find ways to entertain himself and these may not go down well with you.
Exercise needs
The Ibizan is an active dog breed and they need plenty of exercise. You can take your dog out on a lead for a walk or run but it is also important to give him some off-lead time where he can run to expend his energy and stretch those muscles. Note that Ibizan hounds have a very high prey drive and they love to chase animals. They are also excellent jumpers and that is why it is very important that you keep your fence height high and secure it against possible escape. Free-running should only be allowed in a safe and secure area. Allow your Ibizan to rest after the run. Do not feed your dog for at least one hour after exercise to prevent bloat. Ibizans do well in agility courses and other canine events.
Training
Ibizan hounds need an experienced dog handler to train them. This is an intelligent dog that learns quickly but he should never be over-handled. Since they have inherent hunting skills and abilities, they tend to have an independent streak in them. That is why many Ibizans tend to get bored with traditional training methods. It is not surprising to see Ibizans in obedience classes looking distracted and bored.
Remember that there is a huge difference between training a puppy and training an adult. Puppies are like sponges; they absorb everything and learn quickly. Adult Ibizans might come with their set of experiences and behaviors, and it could take a while for you to teach older dog new tricks. Ibizans love fun and games so you must keep training sessions short and fun.
Grooming
It is fairly easy to groom an Ibizan since he hardly has any doggy odor. Simply brush his coat a couple of times a week and bathe him occasionally. Some Ibizans tend to have a reaction to dog shampoos so always use mild, vet-approved products. You can also use the grooming sessions to trim his nails, clean his eyes, and examine his ears for odor or infections. Also, brush your pet’s teeth every day to prevent plaque and tartar.
Health issues
These dogs are sensitive to anesthesia and certain pesticides. They are also prone to axonal dystrophy. Their average life expectancy is 12-14 years.
Where to find an Ibizan Hound
Start your search for an Ibizan hound at a rescue center or animal shelter, as it is always better to adopt than to shop. You can also search for genuine Ibizan hound breeders. A list of ethical breeders can be found on the official website of the Ibizan Hound Club of America. The average cost of a purebred Ibizan hound is approximately $1000 depending on the breeder.
