Ibizan Podenco
Other names: Canary Islands Hound

The Canary Islands Dog is better known as the Podenco Canario on their island of origin. They are a particularly brave, lively, enduring and very dynamic breed. Naturally quite nervous, they are active dogs that can only thrive with a sporty master who can give them time.
Key facts about the Ibizan Podenco
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Origins and history
The Canary Islands Hound is one of the oldest known species : they date back about 7,000 years, as shown by the engravings, statues and carvings in which they appear. Originally from Egypt, they were most likely exported to the Canary Islands by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians and the Egyptians themselves. They are widespread in the Canary Islands, particularly on the largest of the islands (Gran Canaria and Tenerife).
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types
Section
Section 7 : Primitive type - Hunting Dogs
Physical characteristics of the Ibizan Podenco
Adult size
Female : Between 24 and 26 in
Male : Between 26 and 28 in
Weight
Female : Between 42 and 51 lb
Male : Between 42 and 51 lb
Coat colour
Their coat colour is a two-toned red (from orange to mahogany) and white.
Type of coat
They have a short coat.
Their coat is smooth and dense.
Eye colour
Their eyes are green.
Description
The Canary Islands Hound, more commonly known as Podenco Canario, is an average-sized, slender and lightweight dog that is also very resilient. Their muscles are well developed and lean, without any trace of fat, to the point where you can see their ribs, spine and the bones of their hips. Their head is elongated and narrow, with a slightly accentuated stop. Their eyes are slanted, small and almond shaped, with an intelligent and noble look. Their rather large ears are raised when they are excited and thrown back when resting. They are broad at the base and come together at the tip in a slightly conflicting position. Their legs are perfectly straight, with an acute but solid bone structure. The tail is set low, it either hangs low or is raised in a rounded sickle shape and it does not extend beyond their hind legs.
Good to know
The Canary Islands Hound, much like their counterparts the Ibizan Hound and other Portuguese and Spanish hunting dogs, is often mistreated by the locals who use them for hunting. If they are deemed not efficient enough, these dogs are hung for disgracing their handler. Many associations are trying to fight against the use of these dogs as simple “slave dogs” that are quickly discarded and thrown out when they fail.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Ibizan Podenco
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Compatibility
Price
The price of a Canary Islands Hound varies according to its origin, age and gender. It is a less well known breed and they are widespread outside their country of origin, so it is difficult to know the fair price to pay.
On average, the recommended budget to support a dog of this size is around £35/month.
Grooming
These short-haired dogs do not require any grooming, except an occasional brushing to maintain their well groomed coat.
Shedding
Hair loss is minimal for this breed and moulting is very light and insignificant.
Nutrition of the Ibizan Podenco
These active dogs are not difficult at all, they can easily be satisfied with daily feeding consisting of a high quality meal.
Although, these meals should not be too large, as to avoid an upset stomach, but also to avoid the risk of overfeeding. It is very harmful for this active breed to become overweight.
Veterinary follow-ups are necessary, especially during the development period as a puppy in order to ensure healthy growth.
Health of the Ibizan Podenco
Life expectancy
The average life expectancy for this breed is 11 years.
Strong / robust
These dogs are hardy, robust and enjoy being healthy.
Withstand heat
Given their origins, these dogs are used to high temperatures and adapt very well to occasional extreme weather conditions.
Withstand cold
Rough climates, on the other hand, are much less appreciated by this southern breed. Even considering they are tough dogs, it is better not to leave them outside for too long when temperatures are too low.
Tendency to put on weight
Thanks to their dynamic nature, they rarely gain weight.
As this is the case, it is important to pay close attention to their need to exercise as they must keep their lean and athletic look.
Common illnesses
No particular disease affects this breed.