Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

The Ibizan Hound, or Podenco Ibicenco, is native to Ibiza, one of the Spanish Balearic Isles. They are directly related to the Pharaoh Hound and Sicilian Hound, and possibly of the same breed, just separated by distance. Ibizan Hounds have clean-cut lines, large pricked ears and a light pigment. Their noses are pinkish orange, and turn a lighter color when they are sick. Used primarily as a hunting dog whose quarry is rabbits, they can hunt by sound as well as sight. They have excellent hearing, with their large antennae-like ears. Ibizan Hounds are lean, quick, medium to large sized dogs. They have a thinly muscled body that was made for quick catches of small prey. One Ibizan Hound was clocked at running 40 mph, which is just as fast if not faster than the Greyhound! Ibizan Hounds can also jump straight up from the ground about 8 feet high. Ibizan Hounds can also come in two varieties: smooth-haired or wire-haired. All are of equal citizenship among the dog breeder world. The Ibizan is an even tempered breed who is not given to great bursts of affection, but are quiet, loyal, giving and enjoy human companionship. They love to run and like their space to do so in. they are alert, adaptable to different situations and well utilize their scent, sound and sight abilities. Ibizan Hounds are somewhat sensitive to strangers, and possibly a little wary. They have a kindly nature, however, and do well around other dogs and children. They rarely fight, making them easier to get along with than some breeds. They should never be shouted at, as they have very sensitive ears. They may also have a strong prey drive for smaller animals. A true hunting hound from the exotic lands of Egypt and Spain, the Ibizan Hound makes a wonderful household pet.

TEMPERAMENT

Ibizan Hounds are alert, adaptable and excellent watch dogs. They get along with almost everyone, rarely getting into a fight with anyone. Ibizan Hounds are sensitive sometimes to strangers, and sometimes way of them. They do enjoy their beds, but also enjoy their exercise. They are active, affectionate and loyal. They are versatile in purpose, and are easily trained as well. They have been said to be catlike in their cleanliness. The Ibizan Hound is friendly and playful with friends and family. They also mature slowly.

GROOMING

Ibizan Hounds come in a few varieties of coat: long and wiry or smooth and short. The short hair is dense, close and hard, with perhaps a little brush on the back of the thighs and under the tail. The wiry is hard, coarse and 1 - 3 inches long, with a possible generous moustache and longer on the back, thighs and tail. Either coat is neither preferable or undesirable.

HEALTH

Sensitive to anesthesia, insecticides, pesticides and other drugs. Other health concerns include false pregnancies and axonal dystrophy.

EXERCISE

Exercise of Ibizan Hounds should consist of frequent long walks on a leash. An owner should handle puppies from an early age for proper socialization.

TRAINING

Also obedience training should begin early on due to their high prey drive. Apartment or house will do fine if they receive daily exercise and space to lay down. They do not kennel well, but prefer a non-hectic environment, and should be kept out of drafts. Ibizan Hounds enjoy the comforts of a soft bed and will utilize it. Although this hound is very adaptable, the best owner for this breed would be an active, dog-experienced owner in a suburban or country home.

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