Ibizan Hound

CH. Double Rainbow Nova - Nova
T'Marras Ibizan Hounds

Ch. Serandida Karcz IX-XI Living Tribute
Alambre Ibizan Hounds

The Ibizan Hound's history has been traced back to about 3400 BC They were owned and hunted by the Pharaohs. Numerous artifacts found in the tombs of the Pharaohs now reinforce the existence of such a dog in those times. These dogs were also referred to as Galgo Hounds. The tomb of Tutankhamen proved a treasure trove when discovered in 1922. Anubis, "The Watchdog of the Dead," a long-honored deity, was well represented by full-sized, true to life statues. These statues are identical of the Ibizan Hounds of today.

Sea traders of Phoenicia were well traveled in those days and had entree to many lands. It is thought that they are basically responsible for the survival of the breed. It was the Phoenicians who discovered the island now known as Ibiza in the 8th or 9th century BC Now belonging to Spain, Ibiza has been ruled and conquered by many-Egyptians, Chaldeans, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, and Arabs. Roman coins bear the head of an Ibizan Hound.

This breed has survived even the hard life that the Ibizan group of islands has imposed on it. Only the fittest could survive, as food is scarce, and the natives used these dogs to assist in providing the necessary food to sustain their lives. These dogs have learned to hunt with great skill, tenacity, and patience. The owner of these hounds also culled their litters-only allowing the strongest and most perfect specimens to survive. Due to this process, this breed has traveled through centuries unmarked by numerous problems evident in many other breeds. These animals are as strong and fit today as they were in the days of the Pharaohs.

The first of this breed reached the United States in 1956. They are lively companions, pets, watchdogs, hunters and friends. They lend themselves well to family life and the ever-changing American lifestyles. They are extremely strong, resilient, and have an incredible temperament.

The Ibizan Hound, sometimes called "Beezers" by their fanciers, is hardy and strong, but can have allergic reactions to drugs, including insecticides and flea powders. Some lines seem to be prone to seizures. The Ibizan Hound has a genetic propensity for Axonal Dystrophy, nerve and muscle disease.

Ibizan Hound health concerns include Axonal dystrophy, thyroid problems, deafness, cardiomyopathy and epilepsy.