Ibizan Hound 2025 Guide: Temperament, Care & Training 🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

The Ibizan Hound is a sleek, sensitive, and athletic breed originally developed to hunt small game on the Balearic Islands of Spain. Known for their tall, lean build and large, expressive ears, these sighthounds are not only striking but deeply affectionate with their people. In this complete 2025 breed guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to care for this noble hound. 🐾

📜 Breed Origins

The Ibizan Hound (pronounced “Ih-bee-thun”) is an ancient breed tracing back over 3,000 years. Brought to the Balearic Islands by Phoenician traders, they were refined on Ibiza to become skilled rabbit hunters—fast, agile, and alert. 🇪🇸

🧠 Temperament & Personality

Ibizans are elegant but also quirky, loyal, and athletic. Key traits include:

• Gentle: Affectionate with family, especially children
• Alert: Always aware of their surroundings—may bark at new sounds
• Independent: Think for themselves—training must be respectful
• Quiet Indoors: Active outdoors but calm at home

🏡 Ideal Home Environment

This breed is sensitive and active, best suited to:

• Homes with secure fenced yards—they're excellent jumpers
• Calm households that provide routine and affection
• Families who enjoy outdoor activities or dog sports

Not ideal for homes with small prey animals or unfenced areas. 🏡

✂️ Coat Type & Grooming

Ibizans come in two coat types: smooth and wire. Grooming is easy:

• Brushing: Weekly for smooth coats; 2–3 times weekly for wire coats
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks or when dirty
• Ear/Nail Care: Clean ears weekly and trim nails monthly

🏃♂️ Exercise & Enrichment

These agile sighthounds need daily outlet for their energy:

• 60–90 minutes of activity daily—walks, runs, fenced sprints
• Scent and lure coursing, agility, or obedience sports
• Enrichment toys, puzzle feeders, and recall games

Without stimulation, they may escape or chase small animals. 🧠

🍗 Nutrition & Feeding

Feed a lean, digestible, athletic-breed diet:

• Animal-based proteins like fish, chicken, or turkey
• Joint support and omega fatty acids
• Low-to-moderate fat to maintain lean muscle

Split meals into two portions. Use Ask A Vet for a custom plan. 🍽️

🩺 Common Health Concerns

This breed is generally healthy but may face:

• Bloat (GDV): Deep chested breeds are at risk—feed smaller meals
• Allergies: Skin and food sensitivities may occur
• Injury: Their thin skin can tear easily—monitor play

Regular checkups and early detection are key via Ask A Vet. 🩺

🎓 Training & Socialization

Ibizans are bright but sensitive—train kindly:

• Use calm, positive reinforcement—never harsh corrections
• Early socialization prevents nervousness and reactivity
• Leash training is essential—prey drive is strong

🧘♂️ Emotional Needs

This breed thrives on routine and respect:

• They enjoy calm, consistent environments
• Don’t isolate—bond closely with family
• Provide mental stimulation to prevent anxiety

Consult Ask A Vet for behavior questions. 🧠

🏁 Final Thoughts: Is the Ibizan Hound Right for You?

If you seek an elegant, athletic companion with a gentle soul and a watchful eye, the Ibizan Hound may be the perfect fit. With space to run, gentle training, and family love, they thrive in both sporty and calm homes. ❤️

Need help building an Ibizan care plan? Start a consult at Ask A Vet today!