Ibizan Hound

An ancient Mediterranean hunter from Spain’s Balearic Islands, the Ibizan Hound (Podenco Ibicenco) coursed rabbits over rough terrain. The breed comes in smooth and wire-haired varieties, prized for agility, hearing, and keen sight; recognized internationally, it remains a rare, eye‑catching companion.

Substantial and well-balanced with hallmark breed features.

• Weight: 45–65 lb (20–29 kg)
• Height: 22–29 in (56–74 cm)
• Coat type: Short, smooth coat (wire-coated variety exists)
• Coat colors: White and red in various patterns
• Distinctive traits: Erect, bat‑like ears; long limbs; narrow, athletic frame; light-footed gait

Very low-maintenance for smooth coats; wire coats need occasional tidying.

• Brushing: Weekly for smooth coats; occasional hand‑tidy for wire.
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks or when dirty.
• Nails/Teeth: Routine trims and dental care.

High sprint energy—pair daily walks with safe, fenced sprints.

• Daily duration: 60 minutes total, including sprint opportunities.
• Activities: Lure coursing, fenced fetch, hiking.
• Safety: Strong chase instinct—reliable recall is difficult off‑lead.

Sensitive and smart—keep sessions upbeat and fair.

• Approach: Reward‑based; avoid harsh corrections.
• Focus areas: Loose‑leash skills, recall management, calm handling.

Lean sighthound management—support muscle without extra weight.

• Quantity: ~2.5–4 cups/day in 2 meals; adjust to condition and activity.

Seek sighthound‑savvy breeders or rescues familiar with island podencos.

• Breeders: Club referrals; discuss smooth vs. wire coat care.
• Rescue: Sighthound/podenco rescues sometimes place Ibizans.

Generally healthy; sighthound considerations apply.

• Orthopedic: Hip screening recommended.
• GI: Bloat risk in deep‑chested dogs—manage meals/exercise.
• Life expectancy: 11–14 years.

Are Ibizan Hounds good apartment dogs?
With Caveats—quiet indoors but need safe sprinting outlets.

Do they shed?
Low to Moderate; weekly brushing controls loose hair.

How trainable?
Moderate—sensitive and independent; rewards work best.

Good with kids?
Generally gentle; supervise due to speed and size.

Off‑leash?
Use securely fenced areas; prey drive is strong.