“The Ibizan Hound probably shares the same roots as the Pharaoh Hound, bearing an uncanny resemblance to the puppies depicted in Egyptian tombs and the jackal god Anubis. Ancient Phoenician sea traders may have taken the puppies to the Balearic island of Ibiza, wherein they remained in relative seclusion. Ibiza noticed many rulers through the ages, coming under the auspices of the Egyptians, Chaldeans, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Arabs, and, most recently, Spanish. Spanish peasants on the island used them for hunting. With little outside influence, the puppies of Ibiza continue to be uncontaminated by crosses to different breeds.

The demanding situations on the island imposed stringent selection by islanders because only the excellent rabbit hunters can be allowed to procreate or, for that matter, survive. These factors produced a hardy, true-breeding canine, little modified from ancestral stock.

The first Ibizan Hound came to USA in the 1950s. The breed’s attractive look aroused much attention; however, the canine isn’t always an ordinary pet. The breed steadily won an excellent reputation gaining AKC identification in 1979. However, the Ibizan Hound is one of the rarer breeds.”

Temperement

The royal Ibizan Hound keeps excellent hunting instinct, uses its acute senses of listening to and smell, and still relishes the chance to chase something that moves. For this reason, the Ibizan has to be exercised and given training in specific regions or on-leash. Unlike most sighthounds, this canine will frequently bark while chasing and playing. The Ibizan Hound is reserved with strangers, and a few may be timid. The Ibizan is a quiet and loyal residence pet, a gentle, mild-mannered, even-tempered canine.

Upkeep

An impartial and athletic canine, the Ibizan Hound desires to exercise daily in a secure area. Ideal exercising permits the dog to stretch out at full speed; however, exercising needs also can be met with long walks or jogs on a leash, blended with an occasional hazard of running entirely out. The Ibizan is a professional jumper, which must be considered while designing an enclosure. The clean coat needs occasional brushing, while the wire coat needs weekly brushing.

Health

“Major diagnosis: none
Minor diagnosis: seizures, allergies
Occasionally seen: deafness, cataract, axonal dystrophy, retinal dysplasia
Suggested tests: eye, (hip), (BAER), (thyroid)
Life span: 12–14 years
Note: sensitive to barbiturate anesthesia”

Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.