The Ibizan Hound: A Fast Runner with an Outstanding Jump
The Ibizan Hound can cover the roughest ground at a 'raking trot' characteristic of the breed. It has an enormous jump and can easily leap over a garden fence
As long as an owner bears security in mind, the Ibizan Hound is not difficult to keep, but it is an all-action dog that needs relentless exercise. The breed has a charming temperament and fits in well with family life. There are two coat types, smooth and rough, both of which are easy to maintain.
Table of Contents
Origin
Spain
Grouping
Primitive Dogs.
Many modern dog breeds are the result of hundreds of years of breeding for particular characteristics, but a few, commonly regarded as primitive dogs, have remained close to the original “blueprint” of their wolf ancestors. As a group, primitive dogs are not clearly defined, and not all authorities agree that such a category should be recognized.
Breed History
Like the Pharaoh hound, these dogs are ancient and originate in Egypt. First records date to about 3100 BC. Like the Pharaoh hound, the claim is that this dog is the source for the image of Anubis, the canine deity that watches over the souls of the departed.
From Egypt, the Phoenicians took these dogs to the Mediterranean Isle of Ibiza, one of the Balearic Islands off of Spain by about 800 BC. The breed became extinct in Egypt. They were common also in mainland Spain. First American imports date to the year 1956.
AKC registry first accepted this breed in 1979.
Physical Characteristics
Height at Withers
Female 22.5-26” (57-66 cm), male 23.5-27.5” (60-70 cm).
Weight
Females 45 lb (20.5 kg), males 50 lb (22.5 kg).
Coat
Two types of coat exist—short and wirehaired. The latter may carry a prominent moustache, though the coat is still only 1.5-3” (3.5-7.5 cm) in length. White, red, or a mixture of the two is accepted. A red color varies from deep rich red to light yellow-red.
Longevity
11-14 years
Points of Conformation
Very chiseled and lithe, these strong athletic dogs are noted for their large pricked up pointed ears and greyhound-type stature. Muscle mass is lean.
The head is shaped like a long cone with a minimal stop, they possess a prominent occipital protuberance, and no facial wrinkles are present. Nose and lip margins are flesh colored and the nose is prominent.
The long, slender neck is slightly arched, the topline is level with a gradual drop off to the tail at the croup.
The thorax is moderately deep, breastbone prominent, and ribs only slightly sprung.
The abdomen is well tucked up, and the thin, low-set tail reaches to the tarsus and may be curved, ring or saber shaped.
The tail is carried high while in action. Limbs are straight and long, fine-boned, and the hare-type feet have thick pads and white nails.
Characteristically, there is lots of interdigital hair. The gait is springy, fairly high, and appears effortless. This breed has the ability to jump high and wide, and is as fast as any sight hounds. The eyes are small, oblique and amber to caramel in color. The ears may rest folded when the dog is relaxed.
Front dewclaws may be removed.
Breed Behaviour and Traits
- Active
- Enjoy human companionship
- Good with children and other dogs
- Stable temperament
- Loyal
- High trainability
- Aloof with strangers
- Alarm barker
- Groom themselves like a cat
- Off leash in a fenced enclosure only; can jump up to 6’ so fence should be sturdy and high.
- Good trainability
- Adaptable
- High exercise needs, but low activity around the house.
- Low grooming needs, good in country or city settings.