The Ibizan Hound breed belongs to the Podencos, dogs that have been used mainly for hunting. These dogs have an athletic build and are very agile, standing out for a slender body and great liveliness. The dog has its origin precisely on the island of Ibiza, and it is believed that it may be descended from European hunting dog lines.
We are going to know all the characteristics of this Spanish breed. Although in the Peninsula it is not so easy to see it, the truth is that these dogs are highly appreciated in the world of hunting. In any case, we are facing an intelligent animal with a lot of energy, which can live perfectly with families.
History of the Ibizan Hound
The Ibizan Hound breed comes from the island of Ibiza, where it has been found for centuries, but there has really been no evidence to indicate that the dog came from ancient Egyptian dogs. This type of conjecture has been made for years, thinking that the breed of the hound was very old, much older than other European breeds. However, genetic studies have recently been done to better understand the true origin of the dog. It has been seen that their genetics are not that old, but that has a lot to do with European hunting dogs, so it is probably a race that emerged through crosses, but does not come from Egypt.
What is known is that this dog gave rise to other breeds of podencos, like the known Portuguese Podenco. This dog has many varieties, with long or short haired dogs, with small and medium sizes. The hounds are so agile for hunting that it is normal that they have given rise to varieties in different places.
Physical characteristics
This dog is tall and thin, being able to weigh 20 or 25 kilos. Females are 60 to 67 cm tall and males 66 to 72 cm. Its head stands out for having an elongated snout and large pointed and erect ears, which are very characteristic. His body is somewhat longer than tall and he is very slim. They are dogs that hardly get fat, since they are always thin.
As with other hounds, this dog has some varieties of fur. May have short, straight, shiny hair. They may also have stiff hair, which is longer and rougher. On the other hand, they might have longer and softer hair. As for the tones, they have white and reddish, and can be totally white, reddish or spots combining both.
Dog character
The Ibizan Hound is a fairly independent dog, who does not have much confidence with strangers. These dogs they are ideal for a family as they are energetic and lively. Obviously, we have to be willing to exercise with them on a daily basis. This is essential for the dogs to be balanced. They are genetically prepared to do a lot of exercise and they are going to need it. However, they do not have to have a hunting instinct, since many do not work for it.
These dogs turn out to be good for families, because they are affectionate and adapt well to houses, although the ideal would be to have a farm so that they could run freely. They are very sensitive dogs that know how to be calm with children and older people. It can be said that they have a lot of empathy and know how to behave with all kinds of people. They should be socialized because they are very faithful and good with the family, but they can become suspicious of strangers and not relate well if they do not do so from a young age.
Podenco care
Depending on the coat that the Ibizan Hound has, we will have to take some care or others. If they have short, straight hair, brushing is very basic, having to do it a couple of days a week. If you have the long fur must be combed more often, with suitable brushes, especially if they have hard hair. In any case, they do not have excessively thick hair, so they will not need much care.
This dog is a animal that usually does a lot of exercise. They do not get fat easily but in any case we have to take care of the food we give them. Daily exercise will be very necessary, especially if they are dogs that are not dedicated to hunting. They like to explore and run, being suitable for the most active people. If we want a dog that hardly needs to walk, we must look for another breed.
The hound is a dog that does not have a thick coat. It has been bred in areas of the Mediterranean, so can't stand cold climates so well. This type of dog needs to sleep under cover, it is not possible to leave them out in the open. In addition, during winter they may get cold and we have to put a coat or clothing on them so that their defenses do not lower, in case we live in a more extreme climate than that of Ibiza and the Mediterranean.
Dog health
Podencos are strong dogs, that hardly have problems that come from the breeding of the breed. The Podenco of Ibiza can be born deaf, something that has been noticed since childhood. On the other hand, you can have sensitive skin, with rashes, redness and allergies. Taking care of their diet and avoiding stress is very important so that they do not have skin problems. In case we notice any of these things on your skin or coat, you have to go to the vet.
Why have an Ibizan Hound
The wonderful Ibizan Hound is a cheerful dog that families will enjoy very much. It will get along well with other dogs, with children and the elderly. These dogs are good at living with people, as long as we like to walk and go out with them for long walks. It is a slim and slender dog, which is in very good health. This assures us that life with them will be long and joyful. It is undoubtedly a good dog for any family, although it is always better to have it if we live in a warm climate.