Background
The Ibizan Hound’s ancestry can be traced back to approximately 3400 B.C. The origin of the Ibizan Hound is the island of Ibiza (one of Spain’s Balearic Islands), where the breed was used to hunt rabbits.
Ibizan Hounds can hunt on many different types of terrain using scent, sound, and sight to track game. Hunters run the dogs in mostly female packs because the female is considered to be the better hunter.
In 1956, the Ibizan Hound was brought to the United States by Colonel and Mrs. Consuelo Seoane.
The Ibizan Hound was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1978.
Sizing up
- Weight: 45 to 65 lbs.
- Height: 22 to 29 inches
- Coat: Smooth or wirehaired
- Color: Combination of red and white
- Life expectancy: 11 to 14 years
What’s the Ibizan Hound like?
Ibizan Hounds are an intelligent, active, and sensitive breed. They’re generally quiet but are alert so they’ll bark if something seems wrong. Ibizan Hounds are reliable watchdogs having strong instincts to protect their family.
Ibizan Hounds are an athletic breed so they’ll need daily exercise and are very good at keeping up with children and other dogs. Because they can jump incredibly high, a tall fence would be a better investment than a short one. Channel their athleticism appropriately with engaging games and playtime.
The Ibizan Hound likes to keep to himself so don’t expect him to follow your every move. He’s not your shadow; he’s an independent thinker with a strong mind and will all his own.
The Ibizan Hound is intelligent which definitely helps during training, but his independence can make him stubborn. Start training him the day you bring him home so he can pick up good manners at a young age. Use a lot of positive reinforcement while you’re training him because he’s smart enough to remember what earns him a reward.
The Ibizan Hound is simple to groom. Perform a weekly brushing using a rubber brush or hound mitt to remove dead hair.
Health
The Ibizan Hound is generally a healthy breed but watch out for any of the following:
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Seizures
- Deafness
- Cataracts
- Retinal dysplasia
Takeaway Points
- The Ibizan Hound is great with children.
- The Ibizan Hound would make a good watchdog.
- The Ibizan Hound is an impressive escape artist so always keep an eye on him when he’s left outside alone.
- The Ibizan Hound is very independent and likes to be on his own sometimes.
If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.