Ibizan Hound — Breed Profile
"Elegant, athletic, independent, prey-driven, loyal, spirited"
Lean mean rabbit machine
At a Glance
Weight
45–50 lbs
Height
22.5–27.5"
Lifespan
11–14 years
Coat
Smooth|wire
Group
Hound
Origin
Spain (Balearic Islands)
Breed Traits
Best For
Active individuals or families with secure yards, experienced dog owners, those seeking athletic companion, hunters
Not Ideal For
Apartment dwellers without yard access, first-time owners, families with small pets, sedentary owners
Health Considerations
Hip dysplasia, hemangiosarcoma, allergies, deafness in white coats
Estimated annual vet cost: $500-$1,200
Breed History
Ancient hound breed from the Balearic Islands of Spain, descended from Phoenician hunting dogs, prized for rabbit coursing on rocky Mediterranean terrain, recognized by AKC in 1979
Fun Facts
- Can jump 5+ feet vertically
- Ancient Egyptian tombs depict identical-looking dogs
- Ears are unusually large and can rotate independently
- Bred specifically for rabbit hunting in rocky, arid terrain
- One of the oldest dog breeds, dating back millennia
Famous Ibizan Hounds
None widely documented