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Hound breeds: Ibizan
Origin
The Ibizan Hound can be traced back to 3400 B.C. He was owned and hunted by the Pharaohs. Carvings, images, and statues have been found of the Ibizan in the tombs of Nevermat of the 4th dynasty, about 2600 B.C.; Tutankhamen of the 14th century B.C.; and the Ptolemies of the 30th and final dynasty. Cleopatra was an ardent fancier of the breed, which was also known at that time as the Galgo Hound. As the isle of Ibiza has been conquered and ruled by many, the Ibizan has traveled to many countries. Roman coins bore the head of the Ibizan, and the Ibizan is the dog that accompanied Hannibal across the Alps.
Rigorous culling of unfit specimens ensured that only the fittest dogs survived to live the hard life of the provider of food for the natives of the Ibizan isles. Thanks to these rigorous breeding practices, the Ibizan today is as fit and vigorous as it was in the time of the pharaohs.
The first Ibizans reached the United States in 1956. They were admitted to the AKC studbook in 1978. They have flourished here and are respected as lively companions, pets, watchdogs, hunters, and friends.
General description
Height: 22.5-27.5 inches
Weight: 45-50 pounds
Color: The color is white or red, solid or in any combination. The red varies from light, yellowish-red called "lion" to deep red.
Grooming requirements
Grooming this breed requires little more than a curry brush, spray conditioner and some time. Regular ear cleaning and nail clipping are necessary.
Health considerations
This is an extremely healthy breed with few health problems. This breed has a tendency toward anesthetic idiosyncrasies. This is a condition where an individual has an abnormal response to commonly used anesthetics. There is no good way to predict this, and care should be taken if anesthesia is necessary.
Breed characteristics and personality
The Ibizan has very few health problems. He requires a lot of exercise. He must have a fenced yard, high enough to prevent his jumping out. A kennel run should be covered.
The Ibizan Hound is even-tempered, affectionate, and loyal. He's extremely versatile and trainable, strong and resilient. He's a very fast running dog and without equal in agility, high-jumping and broad-jumping ability. He is able to spring to great heights from a standstill.
The Ibizan is considered an excellent family pet, gentle with children and very trainable. They lend themselves particularly well to ever-changing American family lifestyles.
Uses
The Ibizan makes an excellent family pet. He is well suited to show, obedience, tracking, lure-coursing and hunting in the field.
Web links
AKC Ibizan Hound page
Ibizan Hound Club of the United States
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