Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the responsibilities of owning an Ibizan Hound?
A: Owning an Ibizan Hound has added resposibilities. Like all dogs, the Ibizan is a creature of habit. Be consistent in your routines of feeding and training your Ibizan, and you will have a healthy, loyal and loving companion. Due to their strong hunting instincts, it is best to always keep your Ibizan on a lead, if not in an enclosed area. The Ibizan loves to run and chase and once the hunting instincts kick in, it is very difficult to summon your "disciplined pet" back to you. The Ibizan is also a natural high jumper. In an enclosed area, ensure that the fence is secure and at least six feet high so that your Ibizan can not escape. The Ibizan is an intelligent and athletic breed. It is essential that you keep your Ibizan mentally active with games and toys to prevent destructive behaviour. Exercise your Ibizan regularly. This may include free running in a safe, secured environment, lure-coursing or freezbee. Those skinny legs were made for a purpose.
These added responsibilities of owning an Ibizan are based on our experiences of owning Swan. Even though these responsibilities exist, we believe that the Ibizan is an extremely rewarding breed to live with and own. Not only are they amazing animals with a wonderful personality and temperament, they are also easy to train and very versatile. They are fastidiously clean and easy to housebreak. The Ibizan is a non-agressive breed that is ideal to have as a canine companion. With early socialisation and supervision, they are compatible with children and other pets.
Q: Why is the Ibizan Hound so thin?
A: The Ibizan Hound is essentially a highly refined hunting dog. The Ibizan is a very fast and tireless canine athlete, uniquely built for hunting rabbits. The Australian Breed Standard calls for the general appearance to be "Tall, narrow, finely built, large erect ears". Physically, even though some examples of the breed look underweight, they are actually perfectly healthy. A consistent balanced diet of good quality dog food, and a regular worming routine will ensure that your Ibizan will look and be its best; healthy, strong, lithe and racy.
