The Ibizan Hound, or Podenco
Ibicenco, is native to Ibiza, one of the Spanish Balearic Isles. They are directly
related to the Pharaoh Hound and Sicilian Hound, and possibly of the same breed,
just separated by distance. Ibizan Hounds have clean-cut lines, large pricked
ears and a light pigment. Their noses are pinkish orange, and turn a lighter
color when they are sick. Used primarily as a hunting dog whose quarry is rabbits,
they can hunt by sound as well as sight. They have excellent hearing, with their
large antennae-like ears. Ibizan Hounds are lean, quick, medium to large sized
dogs. They have a thinly muscled body that was made for quick catches of small
prey. One Ibizan Hound was clocked at running 40 mph, which is just as fast
if not faster than the Greyhound! Ibizan Hounds can also jump straight up from
the ground about 8 feet high. Ibizan Hounds can also come in two varieties:
smooth-haired or wire-haired. All are of equal citizenship among the dog breeder
world. The Ibizan is an even tempered breed who is not given to great bursts
of affection, but are quiet, loyal, giving and enjoy human companionship.
They love to run and like their space to do so in. they are alert, adaptable
to different situations and well utilize their scent, sound and sight abilities.
Ibizan Hounds are somewhat sensitive to strangers, and possibly a little wary.
They have a kindly nature, however, and do well around other dogs and children.
They rarely fight, making them easier to get along with than some breeds. They
should never be shouted at, as they have very sensitive ears. They may also
have a strong prey drive for smaller animals. A true hunting hound from the
exotic lands of Egypt and Spain, the Ibizan Hound makes a wonderful household
pet.
