Ask Bunny
What kind of dog are you?
I am an Ibizan Hound. I got my name from the white marking on my lower back. It looks like the Playboy bunny trademark and was visible at birth.
Describe yourself, your temperament.
Ibizan Hounds are very intelligent dogs. Our's is an ancient breed dating back almost 5000 years. We are elegant and regal. Yet, we can act like clowns. One moment I'm a princess. The next I'll make you laugh. I'm very outgoing and adapt well to any situation. I'm happiest when I am the center of attention. It's all about me.
Ibizan Hounds are considered a sighthound in the U.S. and compete in the Hound Group. We were originally bred for hunting rabbits and other small game in rocky terrain. We have moderate angulation and flat muscles which allows us to be very agile yet quick. In addition to conformation showing, we compete in lure coursing, obedience and agility.
Do you have advantages over others?
I love to show. Can't you just tell that I have that "look at me" attitude. I think it is very apparent both inside and outside of the show ring. Like I said, it's all about me.
I have great breed type and been told than I am very elegant with a long arched neck. Ears are an important characteristic in my breed and mine are usually up and erect. Especially when I'm the center of attention. I move effortlessly and gracefully, as though I am floating. What can I say, I'm a stand out in the ring.
Not to brag, but I was the #1 Ibizan Hound from 2000 through 2003. I won the National Specialty twice, the Westminster Hound Group twice, and 43 Best in Shows. I am the top winning Ibizan Hound and #3 Hound in U.S. history. Check out my Show Record page.
How did your owners raise you?
Bunny with Gable
They focused on socialization while I was growing up. I was introduced to people of all ages and gender. They exposed me to various types of environments. I got to meet and play with different dogs.
I grew up with two Basenjis and a Jack Russell Terrier. And let me tell you, that Jack was something else. It would jump up in my face over and over. I never snapped or growled at it (though I really wanted to).
I regularly attended conformation classes. My mom kept it fun and I got lots of treats and praise while doing it. We had a good time. I am very food motivated and respond well to bait training (rewarding behavior with food). My mom never over trained me so I never got bored with it. Showing remained fun and games even as I grew older. My mom believed this helped me keep my interest and energy in the show ring.
I've always been a big part of the family, like one of their children. I always lived in the house, never in a kennel.
What advice or hints to you have for living with your breed?
Ibizan Hounds learn quickly but usually want to do things on their terms. When teaching us something new, you need to somehow convince us that it was our idea to do it. We respond well to praise and positive reinforcement.
We are also very sensitive dogs and will never forget any cruelty (like wearing antlers). When brought up with love, we'll become your loyal friend for life. A gentle hand and many treats will get you far with an Ibizan.
My breed may appear aloof to strangers but we should never be fearful or aggressive. Good socialization, as with many breeds, is a must.
Ibizan Hounds require a good amount of daily exercise. We can jump great heights from a stand still. My daughter Tommy has plucked birds out of mid-air. A high fence is recommended. Keep us on leash when not in a secure area. We will run down prey if given the chance.
