General Description: (Podenco Ibicenco) (Ibizan Warren Hound - Ibizan Podenco) The Ibizan Hound, otherwise known as the Podenco Ibicenco, is a tall, slender, long-legged breed that comes in three coat varieties: smooth-haired, long-haired and wire-haired, although the wire-hair is somewhat rare. The coat can be either white and red, white and tan or solid white or red. The ears are large and triangular, and perk upward, framing amber eyes. The head is long and wedge-shaped, culminating in a convex-shaped, or "Roman" nose, which is either pink or flesh-colored. The neck is long and arched, the body is fine-boned, almost skeletal, with sleek rather than bulging muscles. The front legs are straight, the rear legs only slightly bent, each culminating in "hare-feet" with long toes. Dewclaws may or may not be removed. The tail is long and narrow, and carried low.
Character: The "Beezer," as the Ibizan Hound is known by its owners, is a sensitive breed. They make excellent pets, but consider themselves members of the family - who are their "pack." Because they are pack dogs, they need to be socialized with other dogs, animals, adults and children. Cats raised with the dog will be regarded as part of the pack – other cats will not be safe, nor will small pets such as rabbits or rodents. The Ibizan Hound is good with children, as its gentle and sensitive, but it does not respond well to rough treatment. Because of its pack instinct, new additions to the family – from a new dog to a new baby - must be introduced slowly. The Beezer is an intelligent breed and learns quickly, but can become bored easily, so must be properly trained. They are sensitive to the tone of voice of their handlers, and do not do respond well to harsh tones.
Size: 22‑29 inches
Weight: 42‑55 pounds
General Health: The Ibizan Hound is a healthy breed for the most part, but cases of Axonal Dystrophy – nerve and muscle disease - are occasionally reported, as are seizures. Some can suffer allergic reactions to drugs, as well as insecticides and flea powders. Properly cared for, it can live up to 12 years.
History: It is theorized that the Ibizan Hound was brought by Phoenician traders from Egypt to the islands off the coast of Spain around 700-900 BC. The breed became popular on the island of Ibiza, where it was used to hunt rabbit and other small game. Indeed, Spanish hunters use the dogs in packs. The Ibizan Hound was fully recognized by the AKC in 1979.
Maintenance: This breed is an average shedder. Whatever the type of coat, a weekly brushing will be fine. Check the interior of the ears on a regular basis, and keep the nails cut short.
Ideal Environment: The Ibizan Hound will do best in a house, although apartment life is okay as long as it is sufficiently exercised. A house with a large yard and a very tall fence would be best. The Ibizan can jump tall fences with a single bound. It is also very fast, and independent, and if it does get loose, it will not return for some time. They hunt by sight rather than sound, have a strong hunting instinct, and can run into traffic and get hit. Because of its single coat, the Ibizan will not do well in cold climates.
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Ibizan Hound information.