Ibizan Hound
The Ibizan Hound is a graceful, deer-like sighthound from the Balearic Islands, known for its extraordinary jumping ability and gentle, clownish personality.
Personality Traits
History and Origins
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undefinedIs a Ibizan Hound Right for You?
undefinedLiving with a Ibizan Hound
Ibizan Hounds are gentle, quiet dogs in the home. They are affectionate with their families and good with children. They can live with other dogs but their strong prey drive means care is needed around small pets. They are sensitive and do not cope well with harsh environments or raised voices. They need secure fencing as they can jump remarkably high.
Training Tips
- Use gentle positive methods - they are very sensitive
- Secure fencing must be at least 6 feet high - they are incredible jumpers
- Off-lead exercise only in fully secure areas
- Socialise thoroughly but gently
- Lure coursing and agility suit their athletic abilities
Temperament
Gentle, clownish and elegant. Ibizan Hounds are charming dogs with a wonderful sense of humour. They are sensitive and responsive to their owners emotions. They are independent but not aloof, and enjoy being part of the family. They can be reserved with strangers initially but warm up quickly.
Exercise Needs
About 45-60 minutes of exercise daily with opportunities for sprinting. They are athletic and agile, capable of jumping great heights from a standstill. They enjoy lure coursing and agility. Must be exercised on lead or in secure areas due to their strong prey drive.
Grooming
Both wire-haired and smooth-coated varieties exist. The smooth coat needs minimal grooming - weekly brushing suffices. The wire-haired variety needs brushing two to three times per week. Both are clean dogs with minimal odour and low shedding.
Health
Generally very healthy. Some incidence of deafness, allergies, autoimmune thyroiditis and eye conditions. They are sensitive to anaesthesia and certain medications. They have very low body fat so feel the cold and may need a coat in winter. Average lifespan 11-14 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high can an Ibizan Hound jump?
Ibizan Hounds are extraordinary jumpers, capable of clearing 5-6 feet from a standing start. Some have been known to jump even higher. This means garden fencing must be very high and secure. It is one of the most remarkable physical abilities of any dog breed.
Are Ibizan Hounds good house dogs?
Yes, surprisingly so. Despite their athleticism, they are calm and quiet indoors. They enjoy lounging on comfortable furniture and are clean, low-odour dogs. They are gentle and well-mannered in the home. The contrast between their indoor calm and outdoor energy is one of their appealing traits.
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