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Ibizan Hound
Hound breed from Balearic Islands, Spain
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Ibizan Hound
The Ibizan Hound is a medium-sized sighthound known for its elegant, deer-like appearance with large erect ears and a lean athletic build. It comes in two coat types: smooth and wire. The breed is described as independent, intelligent, athletic, gentle, alert, and playful. Its energy level is rated high (4 out of 5), and it has moderate trainability (3 out of 5). Grooming needs are low (2 out of 5), and shedding is also low (2 out of 5). The breed's suitability with children is moderate (3 out of 5), and it is moderately compatible with other dogs (3 out of 5). Apartment suitability is low (2 out of 5), suggesting it may not be ideal for small living spaces. Estimated adult weight for both males and females ranges from 23 to 29 kg, and estimated adult height from 60 to 70 cm. Estimated lifespan is 11 to 14 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Ibizan Hound at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginBalearic Islands, Spain
Lifespan11–14 years
Male weight23–29 kilogram
Female weight23–29 kilogram
Male height60–70 centimetre
Female height60–70 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Ibizan Hound is an ancient breed whose origins trace back to Phoenician traders who brought Egyptian hunting dogs to the Balearic Islands around the 8th century BC. The breed developed in isolation on Ibiza and neighboring islands, where it was used for hunting rabbits on rocky terrain. This history is based on available sources, but exact dates and details may be uncertain. The breed's origins are in the Balearic Islands, Spain, and it is classified in the Hound group. It was bred for hunting by sight, particularly rabbit, and is known for remarkable jumping ability. The breed's development in isolation contributed to its distinctive characteristics, though specific historical events beyond the Phoenician connection are not documented in the supplied facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
23–29 kilogramAdult weight60–70 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesSmooth, WireCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Independentintelligentathleticgentlealertplayful
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Ibizan Hound-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Ibizan Hound puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight23–29 kilogramAdult female weight23–29 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of an Ibizan Hound?
The Ibizan Hound is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 23 to 29 kg, and estimated adult height is 60 to 70 cm. Estimated lifespan is 11 to 14 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of an Ibizan Hound?
The breed is described as independent, intelligent, athletic, gentle, alert, and playful. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every Ibizan Hound will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does an Ibizan Hound need?
The Ibizan Hound has a high energy level (rated 4 out of 5), so it likely requires regular, vigorous exercise. It was bred for hunting by sight and has remarkable jumping ability, so activities that allow running and jumping may be beneficial.
What are the grooming requirements for an Ibizan Hound?
Grooming needs are low (rated 2 out of 5), and shedding is also low (rated 2 out of 5). The breed has two coat types: smooth and wire. Both likely require minimal maintenance, but specific grooming routines are not detailed in the supplied facts.
Is the Ibizan Hound suitable for apartment living?
Apartment suitability is rated low (2 out of 5), suggesting the breed may not be ideal for small living spaces. Its high energy level and need for exercise likely make a home with a yard more appropriate.
Is the Ibizan Hound good with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is rated moderate (3 out of 5), and dog compatibility is also moderate (3 out of 5). While the breed is described as gentle and playful, individual temperament can vary, so supervision and proper socialization are recommended.
Where does the Ibizan Hound originate from?
The Ibizan Hound originates from the Balearic Islands, Spain. According to available sources, its ancestors were brought by Phoenician traders around the 8th century BC, but exact historical details are uncertain.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.