Ibizan Hound

History and origin: The Ibizan Hound was owned by the ancient pharaohs of Egypt and was drawn on rock. stone, and papyrus as early as 3000 B.C.  He was a favorite among the Egyptians, Phoenicians, and Romans for his ability to locate rabbits and other small game animals by sight and then run them down.

Description: The Ibizan Hound stands 22.5 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 40 and 50 pounds.  He has a lithe, athletic body with a short, shedding coat that needs regular brushing.  The coat may also be wire haired, but this is equally low maintenance.  The color may be red or tan with white on the chest, forehead, and legs.

About the breed: This breed is a good gundog and also makes a wonderful house pet.  He is a gentle, lithe, active sight hound with a reserved, dignified, quiet demeanor, and is not comfortable in a hectic environment.  Though affectionate with his owners, he does not need or desire constant attention. The Ibizan Hound is friendlier than a Saluki or a Borzoi, however, having a temperament more similar to that of the Whippet.  This breed is sensitive and easily hurts.  He is a slow learner; training must proceed slowly, patiently, and with great precision.  Let the dog know exactly what you want of him and make sure to take it in small steps.  Overbearing methods will panic this breed.  The Ibizan can be dog-aggressive and has a high prey drive toward small animals.  He is wonderful with children as long as roughhousing or teasing is not permitted.  Obedience training, socialization, and handling should all begin early in the dog's life.  The “Come” command is the most important one for a sight hound to learn.

Feeding:  Recommended feeding for this breed is 1 – 1 ½ cans (13.3oz) of high-quality meaty product with biscuit added in equal part or 3 cupfuls of a complete, dry dog food.  Raw fish and fruit is also beneficial to this breed's diet.

Ideal home: An apartment is suitable if the dog receives plenty of exercise.  A quiet, predictable home is the best environment for this breed.  The owner of an Ibizan Hound should be a calm, confident, patient leader who has time to socialize the dog.  Nervous and overbearing persons should avoid this breed.  Small animals in the home may create a problem due to this breed's high prey drive.