Selecting a Breeder
Just as the Ibizan Hound breeder has put thought, care, and expense into their new litter, you will want to thoughtfully select the right breeder for your puppy or dog. IHCUS is not responsible for the business practices of any breeders on its referral list, or the health of their dogs. You must make your own informed decision. Speak with several breeders, even if they live a great distance away. This gives you a better understanding of what to expect from breeders and what it is like to live wit this breed. If it is possible, visit one or more kennels.
The breeder should be able to explain the AKC Breed Standard. The breeder should also be able to explain pet vs show quality, and point out faults in their own dogs. Be suspicious if the breeder claims that all of their dogs are show quality.
Breeders are required by IHCUS to test for at least two of the following hereditary conditions: hips (OFA or Penn), elbows (OFA), eyes (CERF), Axonal Dystrophy pedigree analysis, thyroid, and hearing (BAER). Many breeders check for more than two health problems. As there is no organized data collection for hereditary defects in this breed, breeders will disagree on which tests are needed. Ask to see the test results on both the sire and the dam. If they are not available, it is time to look elsewhere for your puppy. The IHCUS Code of Ethics requires that health checks be made before breeding.