It does not fear any terrain and can resist diseases and to the worst infections: we are talking about the Hound, a dog-loving breed that was specially created to hunt and accompany fans of the ars venandi. It is part of various breeds that have their roots in very ancient times, to be precise in the basin of the Mediterranean. It is also known by other names, namely Ibizan Hound, Podenco Ibicenco, Ca Eivissenc, Balaeric, Chien de garenne des Baléares, Podenco d'Ibiza, but it is preferable to use the generic term of Podenco.
Origins of the Podenco
On origins not much is known about this breed. For some experts, however, the roots must be sought in an anteborn of all respect, the Thesem. This breed known as skilled in hunting, currently it is extinct. Despite this there are numerous representations that date back to the Egyptiansin fact, a graphic representation was found in the Pyramid of Cheops. The first evidence of this breed can be found in Europe thanks to Phoenicians which as a result of commercial expansion have become very active on the continent.
Characteristics of the Podenco
There are many types of Hound, but that Spanish is the most important especially because it is a skilled hunter. In fact, even if it is not well known outside the Iberian Peninsula, it is held in high regard in the nation for its hunting skills.
These characteristics derive from one strong and resistant muscle structure which allows the hound to face any type of terrain without difficulties. From the rocky to the soft one, passing through the mountain or flat one, the hunting dog always manages to give the best of itself, on every occasion.
To physical abilities you can add the ability to adapt to any situation. The dog is a excellent hunter both in pack and alone, completing each task with ease.
The types of Podenco
As previously mentioned there are various types of Podenco, many concentrated in the Spanish nation.
Il Podenco orito or Spanish Podenco, is the best known in Spain. Despite this it has not yet been recognized by the FCI (Fédération cynologique internationale), although there are numerous insistent on the part of the breeders.
The other Podencos in Spain are that Andalusian present on the territory of Andalusia, Ibizan it has settled mainly in the Majorca area and canary present mainly in the Canary Islands.
The Podencos of other countries are also characterized by being skilled hunters. Among the best known is the Portuguese Podenco, present in Portugal, the Cirneco dell'Etna developed in southern Italy especially in Sicily. Another presence on the Italian territory is that of Dog of the Pharaohs or Pharaoh Hound which we also find on the island of Malta.
Physical characteristics of the farm
Il physical del Podenco Ibicenco is tonic, with sculpted and lean muscle mass. The trunk even if it is very slender it is well proportioned. The chest is narrow and deep, ending with the skull , long narrow forehead which ends with the head which has a conical shape.
Il truffle del Podenco Ibicenco is not very big but despite this it stands out because it stands out for the reddish color. The eyes are Amber clear and not very large. The ears, they are erect and always a lot furnishings.
The mantle of the Podenco Ibicenco
As mentioned earlier, the Podencos are gods sturdy and well developed dogs. We can find them in various sizes, but essentially they are medium to large dogs.
The characteristic of this breed is above all the mantle what can be long-haired short-haired. Both are very common, there is not one type that dominates the other, but they are present in the same way.
In any case the hair is resistant and bright. As for the color, the most common is that White and red together or only white and only red.
The only exception is with the Ibizan Hound of exceptional stature that has the mantle fawn.
Character of the Podenco
These hounds particularly suitable for hunting, have i very developed senses and therefore they are always ready to give the best of themselves and to be always on alert.
This natural predisposition causes the hound has a active and independent character, but above all they are very intelligent therefore particularly Suitable for all 'training.
A sedentary lifestyle and life at home is not made for these animals that need to be always active. If locked up in the house they can be harmful and destroy the apartment.
The hound has a balanced and patient temperament, although he is very energetic so he needs to be kept active both physically and mentally.
Il Hound it is perfect for children, but previously it must be socialized and educated. In fact, he loves cuddles but only if not excessive and if they come from the owner. Despite this, he is not a violent dog, but a docile one.
Hunting features
When used in hunting, it demonstrates all its skills towards prey such as the rabbit, the partridge , hare, but it is also sometimes used for large game.
It usually hunts in pack, consisting of females only and stands out because it is able to track down prey above all thanks to the very developed sense of smell.
Podenco health
This dog is very popular not only for its skills, but also because it has one excellent health, which does not lead the owner to worry excessively.
He is a very dog resistant which has managed to adapt over the centuries, but which at the same time has not adapted to the processes of aesthetic standardization.
For this reason it has a greater genetic variety, which has important health benefits. In addition to physical endurance, the immune system really forte.
Also, it has a predisposition to reject certain hereditary diseases. For this reason, these dogs have a low probability of presenting degenerative diseases common in other breeds, such as the mitochondrial hip or elbow.
Like all animals and hounds there prevention it is essential to guarantee a better quality of life.