The Ibizan Hound is a medium sized hunting hound breed native to the Balearic Islands. More particularly the Island of Ibiza. The breed has a great reputation for its hunting prowess. Especially for small game like rabbits and hares. Their lineage can potentially be traced back to Ancient Egypt, and they have been an important companion for hunters on their native islands for centuries.
In terms of personality, these dogs are intelligent, with a very playful and affectionate nature. They have an independent streak though, which can present challenges for novice owners when it comes to training. In the right hands, these dogs excel in activities like lure coursing and agility trials, where they can show off their awesome speed and agility. Despite their hunting background they are gentle with their families and good with children, making them excellent family pets.
The Ibizan Hound is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in Group 5 for Spitz and ‘Primitive Types’ and the Spanish Kennel Club (Real Sociedad Canina de España). n recent years, the Ibizan Hound has also been registered with various kennel clubs worldwide, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club (KC) in the Hound Group.
History & Origins Of The Ibizan Hound
Originating from Ibiza in the Balearic Islands, the Ibizan Hound was bred for its exceptional hunting abilities. This ancient breed’s lineage likely includes other Mediterranean hounds brought to the islands by seafaring traders. According to the FCI breed standard, it is likely that these dogs were brought to the islands, initially by Phoenician traders, the Carthaginians and also the Romans. There is some suggestion that they are representative of one of the oldest primitive breeds still in existence. This is supported by evidence of these dogs depicted in Egyptian artefacts, and Illustrations of these dogs are also found in the graves of the Pharaohs.
More recent DNA analysis however, some of which carried out as recently as 2023, suggests that the modern breed was a more recent creation from older, similar breeds. That perhaps the dogs brought over millennia ago are in the line, but not the same dog. They do look remarkably similar to the Pharaoh Hound and Portuguese Podengo and it is likely that these breeds all share a common ancestor.
Regardless of their exact origins, the Ibizan Hound boasts a rich history,on the Balearic Islands For centuries, they thrived alongside hunters on the island of Ibiza, indespensable in finding and catching rabbits and other small game. Recognized in the U.S. Until the 1950s, the breed was relatively unknown outside of northern Spain, Catalonia and the Balarics.
In 1956 the first dogs of the breed were imported to the USA, and with others imported soon after, became the foundation stock for the breed on that side of the Atlantic. After official recognition with the AKC in 1979, the breed was introduced to show in the 1980’s and has been a good performer ever since, though not a particularly popular breed.
Quick Facts About The Ibizan Hound
- Keen Hunter – The Ibizan Hound is a highly skilled hunter with an exceptional ability to track game by sight, sound, and scent. They are a sight to watch when on the hunt. A perfect specimen of speed and agility and these translate well into activities such as lure coursing and agility trials too. Their vertical leap from a standstill is particularly impressive!
- Playful and Affectionate – Despite their hunting prowess and appearance, Ibizan Hounds are known for their playful and affectionate nature. They love to entertain their families and are well known for thier ‘clownish antics’ and behavior. This playfulness makes them especially good with children and other dogs.
- Intelligent and Independent – Ibizan Hounds are highly intelligent, though sometimes independent, which can make training a bit challenging. It is a rewarding experience and they are incredibly capable, but a lot of patience might be required to navigate their independence if they display this in their nature. They are skilful and can quickly learn new tasks but they can also become bored with repetitive training.
- High Energy Levels – This breed has very high energy levels and requires plenty of physical activity to stay happy and healthy. Regular exercise, such as long walks, runs, and playtime in a secure area, is essential. They thrive in environments where they can run freely and engage in active play, making them ideal for active families.
Characteristics Of The Ibizan Hound
The Ibizan Hound is often compared to other Mediterranean breeds such as the Pharaoh Hound and the Portuguese Podengo due to its sleek, athletic build and keen hunting instincts. They are however, a distinctive breed with their own characteristics and personality traits.
In its native Ibiza, the breed is most commonly known by it’s Catalonian name ‘Ca Eivissenc’ or it’s Spanish name ‘Podenco Ibicenco’. The FCI standard refer to the breed in its Spanish name, and the AKC standard in its English name. Internationally, they are usually called the Ibizan Hound but you might also hear them go by the name ‘Ibizan Warren Hound’ or by the nickname ‘Beezer’.
While most hunting types are specified by type – sight, sound or scent, these dogs are very proficient at all these types of hunting. This versatility makes them excellent hunters of small game, especially rabbits, in the rough terrains of their native Ibiza as well as the Pyrenean range that borders Spain/Catalonia and France where they are also a popular breed.
One unique feature of the Ibizan Hound is their ability to jump impressively high from a standstill. Its a trait that has been historically advantageous in hunting, but you need to know this when securing your yard because you might well need a taller fence.
Ibizan Hound Puppies
Ibizan Hound puppies typically come in litters of between four to twelve, but most commonly average between six to eight. It’s crucial for them to stay with their mother and littermates for at least eight weeks to develop proper social behaviors and foundational skills. They need this to give them a strong start when it comes to socialization and training when they arrive in their new home.
For those considering adding an Ibizan Hound to their family, the cost can vary significantly. In the United States where they are quite a rare sight, prices typically range from $1500 to $2500, depending on the breeder, lineage and demand. In Europe, prices generally range from €800 to €1,500, where again, these dogs are relatively rare and may come with a waiting list. In the UK, a price between £800 and £1,500 can be expected. They can go for cheaper than this from time to time, as low as £500, but a good pedigree will usually cost you upward towards the grand.
While Ibizan Hounds are not as costly as some other dog breeds, they are still a considerable investment, particularly for purebred puppies with a documented lineage. Prospective owners should be wary of overbreeding from poor or limited stock, which can impact the health and quality of new pups.
Appearance
The Ibizan Hound has a lean, muscular body, with a long neck that seamlessly transitions into its well-defined shoulders. It carries itself with a dignified yet approachable demeanor, embodying a fine balance of power and refinement.
The eyes of the Ibizan Hound are a striking amber color, almond-shaped and convey a keen, intelligent expression. Its large, upright ears are one of the breeds most distinctive features. Very tall and pointy, always alert and giving the dog a perpetually attentive look. The ears are set well apart and are highly mobile, enhancing the breed’s ability to hear and track its quarry. The head is long and narrow, tapering to a slight stop and leading to a slender, elongated muzzle. The nose is typically flesh-colored, blending harmoniously with the dog’s coat colors. The tail of the Ibizan Hound is set low, tapering to a fine point, and is typically carried in a sickle or ring shape when the dog is active.
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the American Kennel Club (AKC) both have slightly different standards when it comes to height to the withers. I’ve illustrated both in the table below, but in either case males tend to be larger than females. The breed’s weight is proportionate to its height, usually ranging from 45 to 65 pounds, though the AKC are more specific, advising that the average for a male is 50 kg and for a female, 45 kg. Both the FCI and AKC standards emphasize that these dogs should maintain a lean, well-muscled physique without being overly bulky.
Male | Female | |
Height | 26 – 28.5 in (66 – 72 cm) FCI Standard 23.5 – 27.5 in (59.5 – 70 cm) AKC Standard | 24 – 26.5 in (60 – 67 cm) FCI Standard 22.5 – 26 in (57 – 66 cm) AKC Standard |
Weight | 45 – 65 lbs (20.5 – 29.5 kg) Average of 50 kg for Males in AKC Standard | 45 – 65 lbs (20.5 – 29.5 kg) Average of 45 kg for females in AKC Standard |
Coat
The Ibizan Hound has two coat types: smooth and wirehaired. The smooth type should be strong and shiny, but not silky. The wire type on the other hand should be very dense, and they are preferred to have beard. Both types are quite easy to groom, only needing regular brushing to keep them clean and free of loose hair. The wirehaired variety may have a slightly rough texture, especially around the muzzle and legs.
Color
Ibizan Hounds can be white, red, or a combination of white and red. The red can range from a light yellowish tint to a deep, rich red. Their nose and eye rims are typically flesh-colored. In the FCI standard, fawn colored dogs are also acceptable, but only in the rough coat variety. The AKC standard does not mention this, only the four combinations of white and red are accepted in that standard. No markings are permitted in either standard.
Temperament
The Ibizan Hound is known for being affectionate and loyal, with an even temper and a good nature with other dogs and children. They are historically pack animals, and while this is most obvious in their hunting role, they form the same strong bond with their family ‘pack’ as a companion dog too. The prey drive does need a bit of work in training to keep them well adapted and social, but they are very versatile and intelligent, capable of competing in a variety of different events.
When it comes to showing off and acting the clown, these dogs are up there with the best. They love to entertain and to be the center of attention.
Lifespan
The Ibizan Hound typically lives between 11 to 14 years, averaging around 12 with proper care and a healthy lifestyle.
Known Health Issues
As a hardy hound, they are not regularly effected by hereditary conditions that can impact other breeds. There are a few known health issues that can pop up for the breed though, including:
Hypothyroidism – A disorder where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.
- Treatment: Lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy is necessary to manage this condition.
Autoimmune Thyroiditis – An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing hypothyroidism and other related symptoms.
- Treatment: Similar to hypothyroidism, this condition is managed with thyroid hormone replacement therapy and regular monitoring by a veterinarian.
Deafness – Ibizan Hounds can be prone to congenital deafness, a condition present at birth.
- Treatment: There is no cure for congenital deafness, but training and communication methods can be adapted to accommodate a deaf dog.
Eye Conditions – Issues such as cataracts and retinal dysplasia can cause vision problems and discomfort in Ibizan Hounds.
- Treatment: These conditions may require surgical correction or other medical interventions to prevent further vision loss and ensure the dog’s comfort.
Von Willebrand’s Disease – A hereditary bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in the von Willebrand factor, a protein essential for blood clotting.
- Treatment: While there is no cure for von Willebrand’s disease, managing the condition involves careful monitoring, avoiding injury, and sometimes medication to promote clotting during surgical procedures.
Daily Life
Food and Diet
Ibizan Hounds have high energy levels and lean physiques. To keep them fuelled and looking good they need a well-balanced diet to maintain their health and vitality. These dogs typically need about 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dog food per day, divided into two meals to help manage their metabolism and prevent overeating.
Ibizan Hounds benefit from a diet rich in proteins and healthy fats to support their active lifestyle. Look for a quality dog food that lists meat as the first ingredient and contains minimal fillers. High protein diets help maintain their muscle mass and energy levels, while healthy fats support their skin and coat health.
For puppies, who are growing rapidly and have higher energy needs, feeding three to four smaller meals per day is ideal. As they transition to adulthood, gradually reduce the frequency of meals to twice a day. If they prefer three meals into adulthood, sticking with that routine is perfectly fine. This might be more suitable for working dogs that are using lots of energy throughout the day.
Older Ibizan Hounds will benefit from a senior blend as they move into advanced stages of their life, ensuring they receive the right nutritional balance for their aging bodies.
Exercise
Ibizan Hounds are high-energy, hunting dogs at heart. To keep them healthy, they need a significant amount of daily exercise, not just a few minutes walking before and after work. A minimum of one to two hours of exercise per day is preferred for this breed. They could get by with a 30 minute walk for the most part, as long as they can run off their energy and if that was supplemented with plenty of active play at home. More is better with this breed though. Activities could include long walks, jogging and play sessions in a secure, fenced area where they can run freely. They are very capable dogs though, so you could make their exercise more interesting by introducing activities like lure coursing or agility training. These provide excellent outlets for their natural hunting instincts and high energy levels.
In addition to structured exercise, Ibizan Hounds benefit from interactive play and mental stimulation. They will do well with puzzle toys or scent games, while fetch can be a good bonding game to help keep their minds engaged. It’s important for owners to provide variety for their Ibizan Hound to keep them interested and challenged. A bored hound can become a naughty hound but it’s easily avoided with proper care.
Family Compatibility
Ibizan Hounds can make wonderful companions or family pets for active households. They will get along with everyone easily when looked after properly, including children and other pets. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them a very welcome addition to the right family, but they are not suitable for all types of home. They have high energy levels and a strong prey drive, which may not be the best fit for families with small, non-canine pets such as rabbits or guinea pigs. Supervision and proper introductions are crucial to ensure harmonious relationships with smaller animals and the earlier you start socializing them the better.
It’s important to note that Ibizan Hounds are not suitable for all living situations. They do well in environments where they have space to run and explore, but they are much less suited for urban, crowded living conditions. Potential owners should carefully consider their living situation and lifestyle before committing to this energetic and spirited breed. They need plenty stimulus too, and if left alone or ignored to boredom they will turn to destructive behavior.
Training & Socializing
Training an Ibizan Hound can be both rewarding and challenging due to their intelligence and independent nature. These dogs are quick learners but can also be quite self-willed and stubborn. To get the best results, training sessions should be consistent yet varied, and patience is essential when their attention starts to wander. If they become bored or confused, they are likely to lose interest and focus on something else. Regular, short training sessions are more effective than long, repetitive ones, keeping the dog’s interest and reinforcing learning without causing frustration.
Proper socialization from a young age is very important for Ibizan Hounds to ensure they are well-mannered and comfortable around other pets and strangers. They have a naturally high prey drive and they need to learn how to behave with this appropriately. If they are going to be part of a household with other pets and children, it is particularly important to establish a harmonious family dynamic and ensure they understand their place within the family hierarchy. For single owners, taking your Ibizan Hound to puppy classes, parks, and regularly exposing them to new experiences will help them become well-adjusted and well-behaved members of the family.
Grooming
Grooming an Ibizan Hound is relatively easy. Regular brushing keeps their coat healthy, perhaps weekly but longer between may be ok depending on the individual dog. The wiry coat version may need this more than the smooth coat type, which you can possibly get away with brushing fortnightly. A pin brush and slicker brush are the best tools for the job, and only an occasional bath will suffice. Their ears should be checked regularly for signs of wax or infection, and their nails should be trimmed and clipped as needed. Teeth cleaning is also an important task with this breed, with regular brushing or equivalent cleaning being recommended.
Breed Traits
Positive Traits | Negative Traits |
Makes an excellent watchdog | Can be independent |
Quick learners | Needs plenty of physical activity |
Good with children and other dogs | High prey drive |
Playful, enjoys entertaining their family | Should not be left alone for too long |
Breed FAQs
Are Ibizan Hounds good with kids?
These dogs are great with kids, but they do need to be socialized early and consistently to keep their high prey drive in check. Once established in a family they are known to be really good not only with kids, but with other dogs in their ‘pack’ too.
Are Ibizan Hounds Rare
They are a popular breed in the Pyrenean range around Catalonia and France, as well as the Balaric Islands. Particularly their native Ibiza. They are more rare outside of Spain though, and particularly so across the Atlantic. In 2023, the breed ranked 166th out of the 200 most popular dog breeds by the AKC. Not a common site in the USA at all.