The Ibizan Hound (pronounced “Ih-BEE-thun” or “Ih-BEE-zan”) is an ancient breed that originated on the Balearic Island of Ibiza, off the coast of Spain. Believed to be descended from ancient Egyptian hounds, such as the Tesem or dogs seen in tomb paintings, it was brought to the Mediterranean by Phoenician traders over 2,000 years ago.
For centuries, the Ibizan Hound was used by islanders to hunt rabbits and small game in rocky, arid terrain. Renowned for its keen eyesight, speed, and leaping ability, the breed became an indispensable part of subsistence life on Ibiza. It was introduced to the United States in the 1950s and was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1978, entering the Hound Group.
The Ibizan Hound remains a rare breed, even in its homeland. However, its elegant appearance, athleticism, and unique hunting style have won it a dedicated following among sighthound enthusiasts and dog sport competitors. Its quiet and clean nature also makes it a potential match for the right home environment.
Though not common as a pet, it is appreciated for its ancient lineage, graceful movement, and gentle companionship.
The Ibizan Hound is a sleek, leggy sighthound with a distinctive deer-like elegance and upright ears.
• Coat: Comes in two varieties:
o Smooth: Short, tight, and glossy.
o Wire: Rougher, with a harsh texture and a bearded face.
• Color:
o White and red (solid or patched) are the most common combinations.
• Size:
o Height: 22–29 inches (56–74 cm)
o Weight: 45–65 lbs (20–30 kg)
• Head & Expression: Long, narrow head with a fine muzzle and amber, oval eyes giving a soft, intelligent look.
• Ears: Large, upright, and highly expressive—one of the breed’s trademarks.
• Tail: Long and tapering, carried low when relaxed.
• Body: Graceful and athletic—built for speed, agility, and jumping.
Ibizans are alert, independent, and affectionate, with a reputation for grace and humor.
• Keen Sight and Speed: True sighthounds—excellent at spotting and chasing prey.
• Playful and Clownish: Known to amuse their families with goofy antics and surprising agility.
• Affectionate and Loyal: Loves being near their people but not overly clingy.
• Sensitive and Thoughtful: Responds best to gentle, positive training—easily discouraged by harshness.
• Reserved with Strangers: May be aloof or cautious around new people—early socialization helps.
Ideal for those who appreciate ancient breeds, sleek athletes, and calm, elegant companions.
• Quiet and Clean: Not prone to barking, drooling, or doggy odor.
• Athletic and Graceful: Ideal for agility, lure coursing, and scent games.
• Gentle with Family: Gets along well with kids and other dogs, particularly fellow sighthounds.
• Striking Appearance: With their upright ears and lean build, they turn heads everywhere they go.
• Adaptable: Calm indoors when exercised properly—good in both rural and suburban settings.
The Ibizan Hound thrives in a balanced routine of affection, freedom, and physical engagement.
• Training:
o Highly intelligent but easily bored—short, fun sessions are best.
o Reward-based training is essential—never respond well to force.
• Exercise:
o Needs daily physical activity—sprints, walks, or safe off-leash play.
o Enjoys games that involve running or scenting.
• Grooming:
o Smooth coat needs weekly brushing; wire coat may require stripping.
o Trim nails, clean ears, and brush teeth regularly.
• Nutrition:
o Feed a balanced diet suited to a lean, active breed—monitor for thinness or weight gain.
• Companionship:
o Not fond of long periods alone—craves gentle, consistent interaction.
The Ibizan Hound is generally healthy with a lifespan of 12–14 years, but may be prone to:
• Deafness (congenital, especially in mostly white dogs)
• Seizures (rare but documented)
• Allergies and skin sensitivities
• Autoimmune thyroiditis
• Sensitivity to anesthesia (like other sighthounds)
Regular vet care and careful breeding practices help mitigate risks.
Compared to the Greyhound, the Ibizan is more agile and capable of leaping vertical fences. It is more playful and clownish than the Saluki, and more reserved and sensitive than the Whippet. Its hunting style is a mix of sight and scent, setting it apart from other purely visual hunters.
If you’re looking for a quiet, elegant, and athletic companion, the Ibizan may be your ideal dog. It’s best for gentle, active owners who can offer structured freedom and patience, as well as a secure outdoor space for play.
Not ideal for homes with unsecured yards or small, fast-moving pets like rabbits or ferrets.
United Pet Club helps you discover the beauty and versatility of ancient sighthounds like the Ibizan—providing breeder connections, training advice, and long-term support. Whether you admire its history or its graceful form, the Ibizan brings both charm and elegance to your life.