Although the name of this breed is unusual, they are really popular dogs in Spain, their country of origin, especially among people who love hunting and similar activities. The Ibicenco Podenco is an elegant dog with a very particular style.
His agility when walking and running allows him to move with great dexterity. Its elongated body helps to lighten its movements, which makes it an excellent hunter. In addition to its hunting skills, this dog is considered a very good watchdog and also an excellent companion.
It is active, attentive and dynamic, so it requires a considerable amount of exercise, making it ideal for activities such as hiking or long walks. On the other hand, they are independent dogs. Although they require specific care, they do not require excessive attention as is the case with other breeds. Getting to know this breed will be very entertaining.
That is why, on this occasion, we will describe in detail everything related to this dog breed. Origin, character, physical characteristics, health, education and the care you need to stay healthy. Before adopting a dog of this breed, find out if it is the right one for you.
- Medium size .
- Weight : Between 20 and 30kg.
- Hair type : Very short and straight.
- Character : Clown, Attractive, Intelligent, Stubborn, Independent, Active
- Health : Healthy
- Life expectancy : Between 10 and 12 years.
Origin of the Ibizan Hound
The Ibizan Hound is native to various European islands. Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera are some of the places related to the beginnings of this dog breed, where it is known by the name “Ca Eivissenc” .
Although there is no specific date of their origin, the antiquity of these dogs stands out, because it was Phoenician traders who transported these originally Egyptian dogs to the aforementioned islands, where they were mainly recognized for their skills as a hunter.
According to some documentation, the first signs of this canine were recorded in the year 3400 BC. However, different studies related to the genome ensure that it is a more recent breed.
What is certain today is that this breed was recognized by the International Cynological Federation in May 1982 , the date on which its official standard was validated.
Since then, although these dogs have not been very famous outside their country of origin, they have received recognition from the Spanish as an innate hunter, making their appearance common, especially when hunting rabbits.
Appearance of the Ibizan Hound
At first glance, the physical appearance of the Ibizan Hound looks like that of an elegant and delicate animal. However, it is not only a dog with a stylized and slender appearance, but its agility, resistance and, above all, its athletic build, which is very beautiful, must be highlighted.
It has a body that is longer than it is tall and its back is straight and formidable, but flexible enough. For its part, the chest of this breed is narrower and deeper. It is an animal with a fine build, but well formed.
Let's see more specifications of the physical characteristics of the breed:
Weight and height
As has been highlighted, it is a dog with a fine, thin and elongated body. Its weight is between 20 and 25 kilograms in either sex. However, height varies slightly between females and males. The first can measure between 60 and 67 centimeters. While males reach a height of 66 to 70 centimeters.
head and face
The head is elongated and narrow, it has a cone shape that is characteristic of this breed. Although it is slightly smaller in relation to the body of these dogs.
As for his face , his eyes show a noble and shy look, although his intelligence also stands out. They are small, usually light in color, and are oval in shape.
The truffle is flesh-colored, medium-sized and with open nostrils.
The snout of these dogs appears prominent, although narrow and long. Like the nose, it is flesh-colored, providing a certain harmony in reference to the coat color.
The ears are another defining aspect of the breed, they are oblique in shape and set low. Its size is medium. They stand out for always remaining rigid, whether directed forward, to the sides or behind. When the dog is very upset, they can be very mobile. They do not have hair inside.
Line
The podenco's tail is set low and elongated. At its beginning it appears slightly thick and tapers towards the tip, where it is covered by a more open and noticeable coat.
Fur
These dogs are characterized by having a dense, long or hard coat . It has such a peculiar coat that it is divided into three varieties:
- Smooth : It does not appear silky. But it is strong and bright.
- Coarse : This coat is generally coarse. It appears longer in areas such as the thighs and inside the tail. The beard with this type of fur is also evident in the hounds. On the ears and head this fur is shorter.
- Length : It stands out for having a length of up to 5 centimeters in diameter. Being more prominent in the head, which tends to be very crowded.
In relation to the color of the coat, it stands out for presenting white and red specimens. Fawn-colored types of hounds are also accepted, although the most common are those already mentioned.
Character
The Podenco's temperament defines an active dog, with a large amount of energy that demands, therefore, frequent physical activity, forcing the owner to do some type of exercise, especially because these dogs love outdoor routines.
We also identify him as an independent animal in many ways, confident in himself and his abilities. However, if there is something to highlight about this animal, it is the loyalty and love for those it considers its family, so it will greatly enjoy sharing part of the time with them.
His skills in hunting small animals, such as rabbits, have given him impressive agility, while at the same time it has allowed the development of his senses in a remarkable way, especially smell and hearing, so the activities of Tracking and surveillance are also good resources that this canine can boast of.
Regarding coexistence, it is a dog that enjoys life in the country. This is due to his role as a hunter accustomed to rural areas. However, it can adapt very easily to life in the city, being a domesticated and educated pet, as long as it is provided with walks and activities outside the home.
In the presence of strangers he may appear distrustful and a little restless. As in the case of other animals, especially if they are small creatures, they can awaken their hunting instinct.
It is important, for this reason, to begin the socialization process from a very early stage, in this way, the dog will reduce its desire to hunt and will be able to coexist peacefully with other dogs and animals of another species.
It is important that the canine receives training focused on coexistence with other animals and people, in this way it will be able to establish its life anywhere in a balanced way and with good behavior.
Education of the Ibizan Hound
As with any pet, Ibizan Hound training should focus on positive reinforcement. It is important to carry out this system, since these dogs do not respond favorably to traditional training. Contrary to popular belief, they can be uncomfortable and even aggressive if you try to educate them in an authoritarian manner.
Proper education in these dogs should be focused on motivation, reward and, above all, perseverance. Although these are intelligent dogs, it is important to start training from an early age, this way good behaviors will be ingrained and the dog will grow up to be a balanced dog.
We are talking about an independent dog, which is why the socialization aspect needs to be significantly reinforced, so it will adapt to the presence of people and animals outside its family group.
On the other hand, learning basic commands is also necessary. Let's remember that this is a fairly active dog that will need control and training will help in this matter. Once these orders are clear, continuing with the tricks will be the most advisable.
The Podenco is a very reserved dog when it comes to barking, however, there are episodes where the opposite is true, especially when it is neglected for a long time.
The training of these dogs must be constant and not demanding; at least 20 minutes a day dedicated to their education will be enough to achieve positive results.
Health of the Ibizan Hound
Ibizan Hounds are fortunate in terms of health, as they do not have any particular diseases of the breed. Their life expectancy is easily between 10 and 12 years , growing strong and healthy. However, some specimens may rarely present unilateral or bilateral deafness.
On some occasions, this problem can occur at birth, and then regulate itself after a few weeks and grow into a completely healthy dog. In other less fortunate cases, deaf and blind canines are born due to an obstruction in the auditory and visual canals, which may be reversible some time after their birth.
In any of these contexts, it is best to go to a veterinarian, in this way the well-being of the puppy and its growth as a completely healthy dog will be guaranteed.
Care
Like most dogs with hunting skills, these dogs are undemanding when it comes to aesthetic care. However, this issue will depend on the type of fur.
Let's look more specifically at the care of the breed:
Hygiene
As highlighted, it will depend on the type of coat. In the case of the straight-haired Ibizan Hound, brushing every fifteen days or monthly will be enough to keep it groomed. If it is those with hard hair, it is necessary to brush it at least once a week.
Those with long hair require more attention when brushing, this being necessary at least twice a week. In relation to bathing, doing it monthly will be more than enough to keep the dog clean.
Exercise
An aspect that should not be overlooked in the life of the hound is carrying out a daily exercise routine . Whether it's just long walks, or combining walks and other activities, it is necessary for these dogs to stay in good physical and mental condition.
Exercise will provide you with sufficient well-being, so you must fully comply with this care. Furthermore, if you do not do so, the dog can develop negative behavior, being destructive and rebellious.
Although it is a dog that adapts easily, the most recommended thing for it is life in the countryside, with a large garden where it can move freely. Keeping it in a small place will not be pleasant for the canine.
Medical checks
Although it is a healthy dog, a visit to the veterinarian, vaccination control and deworming, logically, should not be neglected. On the contrary, it is necessary to be rigorous with this issue, this will ensure that the dog continues to enjoy good health.
Feeding
The Ibizan Hound's diet must be according to its energy expenditure and its active nature. A complete and balanced feed, rich in nutrients and especially proteins, will be the most appropriate to maintain the health and energy of our friend.
Conclusion
Although it is a little-known dog outside its country of origin, the Ibizan Hound has earned particular fame in Spain, more specifically in the Balearic Islands, not only as an excellent hunting animal, but also as a companion dog.
His energy and vitality are contagious, and he is a very entertaining companion who will never fail to fill you with fun and good times. If you like outdoor activities, a companion like this will be ideal to enjoy walks and exercises daily.
In addition, it is an intelligent and independent dog, so if you know how to give it the care it needs, you will enjoy its company for a long time.
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