Ibizan Hound
Description
Ever wonder what makes the Ibizan Hound stand out? This breed dates back over 5,000 years, with roots tracing to ancient Egypt and the island of Ibiza. Sleek and athletic, Ibizans were bred for hunting rabbits across rocky terrains, showing remarkable speed and agility. Their large, upright ears give them an alert look, always ready to catch the slightest sound. These dogs weigh between 45 and 50 pounds and have a short, dense coat that lies close to their body. They’re independent but affectionate with family, often reserved around strangers. Because of their strong prey drive, small pets might not be safe around them. They’re not suited for outdoor-only living, as they love to bark when chasing anything that moves. Can you imagine a dog that’s both a graceful jumper and a keen hunter?
Grooming
The Ibizan Hound sports a short, dense coat that’s easy to maintain but requires some special care to keep its wiry texture and vibrant colors. Their coat colors range from solid red to red and white combinations, often with striking white markings. Despite low shedding, dead hair tends to hold onto the coat, so regular grooming is a must. Here’s a quick grooming checklist: - Card the coat weekly to remove dead hair gently - Use a light slicker brush without overdoing it - Handstrip every 8–12 weeks to preserve coat texture and color - Check ears regularly for debris due to their large size - Bathe only when necessary to avoid stripping natural oils Pro tip: Handstripping not only keeps the coat looking sharp but also helps maintain the breed’s characteristic wiry feel and vibrant red hues. This breed doesn’t have much seasonal coat change, so grooming stays fairly consistent year-round.
Learn the Wiry routine:
→ Complete Wiry Grooming Guide
Walking
How much exercise does an Ibizan Hound really need? They thrive on about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. This keeps their agile bodies in top shape and helps manage their natural hunting instincts. Walks should include some off-leash time in a secure area if possible, as they love to explore and follow scents. Example routine: - Morning: 40-minute brisk walk with some light jogging and scent games - Evening: 45-minute relaxed walk with time to sniff and explore Ibizans enjoy varied routes that challenge their senses and muscles. Without enough activity, they might get bored and find their own entertainment, which isn’t always ideal. So, why settle for a dull walk when you can turn it into an adventure?
Boarding
Boarding an Ibizan Hound requires attention to their size and temperament. A crate between 42 and 48 inches is best, giving them enough room to stretch but still feel secure. These dogs are playful and curious, so their day should include two active play sessions combined with scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. Avoid small-animal toys since their strong prey drive can make them overly excited or aggressive toward such items. Secure fencing is a must because Ibizans are excellent jumpers and escape artists. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help the dog feel comfortable and reduce stress. With proper enrichment and care, Ibizan Hounds can enjoy boarding stays that keep them happy and engaged, even away from home.