A lean, elegant sighthound-like build with big upright ears and a light-coloured nose. The coat comes smooth and short, or wiry at roughly 1-3 inches, often with a small beard; the FCI also allows a long-haired variety. Coats are left untrimmed.132
Coloursred (from light 'lion' to deep red)whitered and white in any combination31
Personality what they are like
Gentle, loyal and loving with its family, with a playful, clownish side. It is also clever and independent, and can be a little reserved or sensitive, so calm and patient handling suits it best.321
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Very high. The Royal Kennel Club suggests more than two hours of exercise a day, ideally including safe space to sprint. A strong chase instinct means free running is best done in securely fenced areas.452
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Easy: a weekly brush for either coat type. The coat is kept natural and untrimmed.43
Home where they are happiest
Suits a roomy home with a large, well-fenced garden; high fences matter because the breed can clear surprising heights from a standstill and is good at working out gates.42
Company who they like around
Affectionate with its people and generally sociable with other dogs; in Spain it traditionally hunts in packs, mostly of females.21
The story where it all began
Hounds of this type have long been used on Ibiza and the other Balearic Islands to hunt rabbits by scent, hearing and sight, often at night and without guns. Traditional accounts link them to the Phoenicians and to the hounds of ancient Egypt, although DNA studies suggest the modern breed was formed more recently. The AKC fully recognised the breed in 1979.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Ibizan Hounds can jump remarkable heights from a standing start.2
2
On its home islands it is used to hunt rabbits without guns, working by day and at night in packs.1
3
The FCI standard recognises three coat types, smooth, rough and long, while the AKC standard recognises two.1
4
Its nose, eye rims, ears and paw pads are a light flesh or tan colour, and its eyes are amber.2
5
The AKC describes it as a world-class sprinter and leaper.5
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed name comes from the island of Ibiza, one of Spain's Balearic Islands, where it originated and was traditionally used for hunting rabbits.6
I wake with the sun warming my ears, stretching long and lean. My human laughs at my silly yawn. We go to the fenced field where I sprint in circles, my legs flying. I find a scent and follow it with my nose high, then pounce on a leaf. Later, I snuggle on the sofa, my head on a lap. When a visitor comes, I give a gentle wag, then retreat to my bed. Life is full of play and love, and I am a happy hound.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard no. 89 (as Podenco Ibicenco), Group 5 Spitz and primitive types, Section 7 primitive type hunting dogs; standard dated 04.02.2000.1
AKC
Hound Group; fully recognised in 1979 (per Wikipedia). Current standard approved 8 February 2022, effective 4 May 2022.3
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Ibizan Hound, and at what times?
Feed your Ibizan Hound at least two meals a day at consistent times. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. For the right amount, check the food label and ask your vet.7
What should an Ibizan Hound eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Offer a high-quality dog food suited to your dog's age and activity. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA. Your vet can help you choose the best diet.8
How often should I bathe an Ibizan Hound?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty. The coat is easy to care for and stays natural.9Pet Wiki plan
How often does an Ibizan Hound need brushing?
A weekly brushing is all your Ibizan Hound needs to keep its coat healthy. Both smooth and wire coats are low-maintenance.43Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim an Ibizan Hound's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid bleeding.9Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does an Ibizan Hound need?
Your Ibizan Hound needs over two hours of exercise daily, including safe space to sprint. A securely fenced area is important because of its strong chase instinct.452
How do I look after an Ibizan Hound's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth ideally daily, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, as floppy ears can trap moisture. Never insert anything into the ear canal.9Pet Wiki plan
How long does an Ibizan Hound live?
The Ibizan Hound typically lives 12 to 14 years, a good long life for a healthy dog.24
Is an Ibizan Hound good with children and other pets?
This breed is gentle and loving with its family, including children, and generally sociable with other dogs. Its strong chase instinct means caution around small pets, so early socialization helps.321
Can an Ibizan Hound be left alone?
The Ibizan Hound is sensitive and may not enjoy being left alone for long periods. It varies by individual, so ask a good breeder or vet for advice on your specific dog.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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