Ibizan Hound

ATTRIBUTES: Family-Oriented, Even-Tempered, Polite

GROUP: Hound Group

ACIVITY LEVEL: Needs Lots Of Activity

BARKING LEVEL: Medium

COAT TYPE: Wiry, Smooth

COAT LENGTH: Short

SHADDING: Occasional

SIZE: Large

TRAINABILITY: Independent

CHARACTERISTIC: Largest Dog Breeds

Breed Overview

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Ancestry

Sighthound

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Origin

Ibiza (Balearic Islands)

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Registration

1978

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Size

23.5 - 27.5 Inches (Male)

22.5 - 26 Inches (Female)

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Weight

50 Pounds (Male)

45 Pounds (Female)

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Expected Life

11 - 14 Years

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY +
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
LOVE WITH CHILDREN +
Unwise
Good With Children
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS +
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
+
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
+
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
+
COAT TYPE
+
COAT LENGTH
+
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
+
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
+
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
+
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
+
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
+
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
+
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
+
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Loaf
Needs an Activity
+
COLORS
+
PATTERNS
+
CARING WITH FAMILY
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
The level of friendliness a breed tends to exhibit towards its family members or acquaintances is a significant factor to consider. Certain breeds may display a reserved nature towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds warmly embrace anyone they are acquainted with treating them as if they were their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN
Unwise
Good With Children
The degree of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature is a significant consideration. It is crucial to always supervise dogs around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs to ensure safety and promote a positive interaction between them.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
The inherent sociability of a breed towards other dogs is an important aspect to consider. While it is crucial to supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with their peers, some breeds tend to have a natural inclination towards getting along with other dogs, whether it be within the comfort of their home or out in public settings.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur and hair a breed typically sheds is an important factor to consider. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing and are more likely to trigger certain allergies. Moreover, they often necessitate regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep their environment clean and free from excessive fur.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
When assessing the grooming needs of a breed, it is essential to consider the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat maintenance requirements. This includes considering the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for such care. It's important to note that all breeds require regular nail trimming to maintain their overall health and well-being.
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
It's worth considering the drooling tendency of a breed. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that are prone to leaving ropes of slobber on your arm or creating large wet spots on your clothes might not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Wiry, Smooth
COAT SPECTRUM
Short
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
The level of friendliness a breed typically shows towards strangers is an important aspect to consider. Certain breeds may display a reserved or cautious attitude around all strangers, regardless of the situation. On the other hand, some breeds will eagerly welcome and be happy to meet new people whenever an opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
The level of enthusiasm a breed displays towards play even beyond the puppyhood stage, is worth considering. Some breeds will continue to have a strong desire to play tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. They maintain a playful nature and enjoy engaging in active games. On the other hand, there are breeds that are perfectly content relaxing with you on the couch most of the time preferring a more low-key approach to play.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
A breed's inclination to alert you of the presence of strangers is an important characteristic to consider. Some breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds tend to be vigilant and will make their owners aware of any perceived intruders. However, once strangers are accepted and welcomed by their family, these breeds are likely to warm up to them.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
The adaptability of a breed to change is an important factor to consider. This includes how well they handle variations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other fluctuations in day-to-day life. Some breeds are more flexible and can easily adjust to new circumstances, while others may find it more challenging and may require additional time and support during periods of change.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
The trainability and willingness to learn of a breed are important considerations. Some breeds are known for their eagerness to please their owners and are generally easier to train. They display a strong desire to learn and take pride in making their owners proud. On the other hand, certain breeds may have a more independent or stubborn nature preferring to do things on their terms. Training these breeds may require additional patience, consistency and positive reinforcement techniques.
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation required by a breed is an important factor to consider. High-energy breeds are typically ready for physical activities and eagerly seek out their next adventure. They thrive on running, jumping and playing throughout the day and require a significant amount of exercise to stay happy and healthy. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more content with a relaxed lifestyle and are often referred to as "couch potatoes." They are generally satisfied with moderate exercise and are happy to lounge around and snooze for a good part of the day.
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
Medium
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Happy to Lounge
Needs a Job or Activity
The mental stimulation needs of a breed are important to consider for their overall happiness and well-being. Purpose-bred dogs, with specific jobs or roles often require regular mental exercise to keep their minds engaged. They may thrive on activities that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other cognitive challenges. Without adequate mental stimulation, these breeds may seek out their own projects to keep themselves occupied, which may not align with your preferences or desired outcomes. Providing appropriate mental stimulation through interactive toys, puzzles, training exercises or engaging in activities related to their breed's instincts can help keep them mentally fulfilled and prevent undesired behaviors that may arise from boredom.
COLORS

Description

Registration Code

Red

140

Red & White

146

White

199

White & Red

214

PATTERNS

Description

Registration Code

White Markings

014

About The Breed

The Ibizan hound is a breed of dog known for its lithe and leggy physique. It has a rich history originating from the Balearic Islands in Spain. Bred as a rabbit courser, the Ibizan Hound is built for speed and agility, making them world-class sprinters and leapers.

The breed is characterized by its elongated head, which art history students may recognize as a familiar motif from ancient Egyptian art. With large, erect ears and a slender, elegant body, the Ibizan Hound stands between 22.5 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder. It comes in coat colors of solid red or white, as well as red and white patterns. The rosy-colored leathers of the nose, eye rims and lips, along with amber or caramel eyes beautifully complement the coat. Their quiet and graceful nature is often compared to that of a deer.

It's important to note that Ibizans require ample space to exercise and stretch their legs due to their athletic nature. Providing them with opportunities for regular physical activity is essential to keep them happy and healthy.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A IBIZAN HOUND

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Ibizan Hound: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

Health

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Ibizan Hounds are typically robust and in good health. However, there are certain ailments that this breed is susceptible to. These include hip dysplasia, eye disease, autoimmune thyroiditis and congenital deafness. To maintain the breed's well-being, responsible breeders prioritize screening their dogs for these conditions. If you're interested in learning more about the health of Ibizan Hounds, you can find comprehensive information on the website of the breed's national parent club, The Ibizan Hound Club of the United States. Additionally, it is advisable to schedule regular checkups with a veterinarian and ensure proper parasite control measures to ensure your dog enjoys a long and healthy life.

Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association:

  • Hip Evaluation

  • Thyroid Evaluation

  • BAER Testing

  • Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Health

Grooming

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Ibizan Hounds have two coat varieties: smooth and wire. The wire coat can vary in thickness. It is important to maintain their coats by grooming regularly. Additionally, it is recommended to check their upright ears on a weekly basis to prevent any accumulation of wax and debris, as this can lead to infections. Furthermore, their teeth should be brushed frequently ideally on a daily basis using toothpaste specifically designed for dogs.
Health

Exercise

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Ibizan Hounds, often referred to as Beezers possess remarkable athleticism and require substantial exercise. These dogs have been known to effortlessly leap reaching heights of five or six feet from a stationary position. Therefore, it is vital for Beezer owners to have a tall and securely fenced area for their pets. Engaging in vigorous daily play sessions with their owners or other dogs, as well as going for long walks a few times a day, brings great enjoyment to these dogs. It is crucial to note that Ibizans have a strong instinct to pursue prey and should never be allowed off leash in an uncontrolled environment, as they can quickly sprint away after any perceived prey. However, they can be excellent companions for dedicated joggers, as their endurance makes them well-suited for keeping up with a regular jogging routine.
Health

Training

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Ibizan Hounds are highly adaptable and can make wonderful additions to any family. They are known for being well-behaved, loving and devoted. Although they may appear slightly reserved, they are amiable and possess a sweet disposition making them ideal companions for households. These dogs are alert and attentive when encountering strangers, yet they are inherently sociable and outgoing. As puppies, they should display a cheerful, playful nature while also maintaining good health. It is highly beneficial to engage in early socialization and consider enrolling them in puppy training classes. Furthermore, Ibizans excel in various canine sports, such as lure coursing, obedience, agility, rally and tracking, showcasing their versatility and trainability.
Health

Nutrition

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To ensure optimal nutrition, it is important to provide the Ibizan Hound with high-quality dog food that is suitable for their specific life stage, whether they are a puppy, adult or senior. It is also advisable to familiarize yourself with which human foods are safe for dogs and which should be avoided. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your dog's weight or diet, it is recommended to consult with your veterinarian or reach out to the dog's breeder for guidance. Their expertise will help you make informed decisions about your Ibizan hound’s dietary needs.

Historiography

Situated off the Mediterranean coast of Spain, Ibiza is renowned as one of the Balearic Islands. Approximately 3,000 years ago, Egyptian hounds were introduced to this rocky island by Phoenician traders. The local inhabitants of Ibiza capitalized on these hounds' hunting abilities by forming packs that specialized in rabbit hunting. Given the scarcity of food in the rugged terrain of Ibiza chasing rabbits was not merely a recreational pursuit but a vital means of securing sustenance. Even in present times, Ibizan Hounds continue to exhibit the same tenacity and remarkable swiftness inherited from their ancestors making them exceptional coursing dogs.

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