A bit about the beezers
The Ibizan hound is an athletic hunter, originating from the balearic islands on the East coast of Spain. It is said by many that before their life upon the island of the sun they were part of an Egyptian pariah breed that has stemmed other breeds such as the Cirneco, Pharaoh hound, Caanan dog, basenji and a large variety of ancient primitive breeds. But there are many different assumptions on what the breed's history actually is.
The ibizan is an efficient hunter, requiring no assistance from man, he is a very versatile breed and great for most all embarkments. They have been used successfully as hunting, racing, coursing, tracking, herding, weight pulling, sledding, retrieving, gun dogs, agility, obedience, therapy, and companion dogs.
Ibizans are not for everyone, a large, strong high-fenced in area is required for their exercise, and proper fencing can become costly. As with most primitive breeds a different approach is necessary for keeping them happy, healthy and fit.
I myself have invested into 8' fencing to prevent 'escaping accidents'. They have very strong prey-drive, and despite lifelong training should never be fully trusted around small animals, or let off lead. Ibizans are very intelligent and have great problem solving skills that should be exercised in a positive manner by continuous training, rather than let to find their own entertainment. They are very smart, despite the generalization of 'sighthounds' not being the brightest crayon in the box. They require different training than most breeds to unlock their intelligence, they love to learn new things and love to make a fool of you while you try to show off their new tricks.
Ibizans run, jump, dig and get into all sorts of trouble, but most of all they share an even greater love to hunt. It is not unusual for an ibizan to find quarry in any landscape, be it a field or yard, rabbit, frog or cat.
When raised in a respecting and educated household they are fantastic housedogs, very clean, loving, independent, and mischievous.
Ibizans are very trusting towards 'their people' and will often remain calm in a stressful situation, as long as their person is calm as well.
They create fierce bonds to their owners, loving with all their hearts, though their heads tend to stray elsewhere. The bond between you and your dog will grow with the time spent with them. Showing, agility, tracking, Frisbee, coursing and training will challenge their bodies and mind while developing your friendship.
They will tend to be hesitant towards new people, and are very particular with the people they like or don't, making it quite clear upon their thoughts.
The ibizan is described as being "lithe and racy, possessing a deer like elegance, combined with the strength and power of a hunter" this is stated in the CKC and AKC standard. Most are initially attracted to the ibizans exotic appearance, but become entranced with the equally unique personality of these magnificent hounds.
