The Ibizan Hound is an elegant yet athletic dog breed originating from the island of Ibiza. With their sleek, deer-like appearance and keen hunting skills, Ibizan Hounds have captivated dog lovers for centuries. However, their rarity outside of Spain coupled with the selective breeding required to produce quality specimens means that Ibizan Hounds are one of the more expensive dog breeds to own.
So how much does an Ibizan Hound puppy cost? On average, an Ibizan Hound puppy will cost between $1000 and $2000 in the United States. However, there are many factors that influence the final price, which can range from as low as $800 up to $2500+ from reputable breeders.
In this article, we’ll dive into the key considerations that affect the cost of an Ibizan Hound puppy. Factors like location, breeder reputation, pedigree, health testing, and timing of purchase all contribute to the bottom line. We’ll also provide an overview of typical ongoing costs of caring for this athletic sighthound. Read on to learn if the regal Ibizan Hound is a good match for your budget and lifestyle.
Purchase Price
The starting price for an Ibizan Hound puppy in the United States is around $1000. However, costs from breeders may range from $800 on the low end up to $2500 or more. Expect to spend an average of $1500 to $2000 for an Ibizan Hound from a quality breeder.
Here are some of the key factors that influence the final purchase price:
Breeder Location and Reputation
Since Ibizan Hounds are relatively rare in the US, location plays a big role in availability and cost. There are fewer than 200 Ibizan Hound puppies registered with the American Kennel Club each year. Because of their limited numbers, you may need to travel outside of your immediate area to find a breeder.
In general, you can expect to pay more for an Ibizan Hound from a top breeder compared to a hobby breeder. Well-established breeders with excellent dog show records often charge higher prices for their prized puppies. Shipping costs are also likely if you cannot pick up the puppy in person.
Pedigree
The pedigree of the puppy significantly influences price. Ibizan Hounds with an exceptional purebred pedigree from proven champion bloodlines can cost $2000 to $2500+. Show and breeding quality puppies command the highest premiums.
Conversely, pet quality Ibizan Hounds usually cost between $1000 and $1500 from reputable breeders. They may have minor cosmetic flaws that make them unsuitable for the show ring, but they are still purebred.
Health Testing and Temperament
Reputable Ibizan Hound breeders invest significantly in health testing to screen their dogs for hereditary conditions common in the breed. Testing for diseases like epilepsy, cancer, and thyroid disorder can add to their program costs. Those expenses may be passed along through higher puppy prices.
Personality and temperament also influence price. Even within purebred litters, there can be variation in activity level, trainability, and adaptability to family living. The calmest, friendliest puppies often command a premium price.
Age
In general, breeders charge the full purchase price for puppies between 8 weeks and 6 months old. Adult Ibizan Hounds over 6 months cost less, averaging $800 to $1200.
The highest demand is for puppies under 4 months. Their lower price tag combined with their cute puppy qualities make them highly desirable. If purchasing an adult, be sure to ask about health history, training, and temperament.
Supply and Demand
As a rare breed, the number of Ibizan Hound puppies available also significantly influences the final cost. When demand exceeds supply, prices for puppies can rise.
To avoid sky-high prices, consider waiting if breeders have long waitlists for their litters. Patience and persistence often pay off in finding this uncommon breed at a more reasonable price.
Coat Color
Ibizan Hounds primarily come in two coat colors: red and white. Solid white Ibizan Hounds are rare but considered highly desirable by some. On occasion, breeders may charge a premium price for theSolid white Ibizan Hounds are rare but considered highly desirable by some. On occasion, breeders may charge a premium price for the striking white coat, sometimes $500 or more compared to the standard red and white.
Other Initial Costs
The purchase price is just one part of acquiring a new Ibizan Hound puppy. Here are some of the other expenses involved:
Sales Tax
Expect to pay sales tax of around 8% or more on top of the base purchase price depending on your location. This mandatory fee is non-negotiable when purchasing from a breeder.
Supplies
Your new puppy will need a crate, leash and collar, food and water bowls, bedding and toys. These essential supplies will likely cost around $150-$200. Proper identification like a microchip or tag adds another $50 or so.
Veterinary Care
Initial vet fees for examinations, deworming, flea prevention and vaccinations typically run $300 – $500 for a Ibizan Hound puppy. Spaying or neutering once the puppy matures costs another $200 on average.
Registration Papers
Breeders charge anywhere from $50 to $200 for official pedigree registration documents from kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club. While optional, registration papers verify ancestry and breed purity.
All said, expect around $1500 or more in total initial costs when you factor in the supplies, medical care and registration fees on top of the Ibizan Hound’s purchase price. Securing financing ahead of time helps budget for these various expenses.
Annual Costs of Owning an Ibizan Hound
While the initial purchase price may seem high for an Ibizan Hound puppy, responsible ownership also means budgeting for significant ongoing annual costs:
Annual Cost | Estimated Price |
---|---|
Food | $500 |
Treats | $100 |
Toys/Misc Supplies | $100 |
Routine Vet Care | $500 |
Emergency Vet Fund | $500 |
Pet Insurance | $500 |
License | $25 |
Training | $150 |
Grooming | $150 |
Boarding | $200 |
Total | $2725 |
These estimated costs account for food, supplies, veterinary care, training, grooming, boarding and other essentials. Annual expenses quickly add up to $2000+ per year for an active, 60-75 pound Ibizan Hound. Budgeting appropriately ensures you can provide good nutrition, proper veterinary care, stimulation, and attention.
Other Tips for Affording an Ibizan Hound
Here are some other great tips for making the elegant Ibizan Hound more affordable:
Become an AKC Breeder of Merit
The American Kennel Club rewards reputable breeders that follow best practices through their Breeder of Merit program. This prestigious status means higher likelihood of quality puppies.
Join an Ibizan Hound Club
Club members often get first pick of litters from top breeders. Perks like mentoring and discounts on supplies are also sometimes available.
Consider Pet Insurance
Policies covering accident, injury, and illness costs typically run $30 to $60 monthly. Well worth it for protection from expensive vet bills.
Take Advantage of Preventative Care
Annual exams, flea/heartworm medication, and vaccines keep problems at bay for less than emergency treatment.
Train and Socialize Early
Proper training and socialization from a young age reduces the risk of behavioral issues and destructive tendencies.
Feed a High-Quality Diet
Nutritious food provides the fuel for Energy needs and helps avoid costly health issues.
Shop Rescue Groups
Sometimes adult Ibizan Hounds can be adopted for $200 to $400 from breed-specific rescue groups.
With the right preparation and budget, the aristocratic Ibizan Hound can be a wonderful addition to active households. Be ready for higher than average costs, but the rewards of this athletic and eye-catching breed make it worthwhile.
Conclusion
An Ibizan Hound puppy typically costs between $1000 and $2000 in the United States. Breeder reputation, pedigree, health testing, coat color, age, and supply and demand all influence the final purchase price. Total initial costs including supplies, vet care, and registration average $1500 or more. Annual costs of care run around $2725 for food, medical expenses, training and other necessities. While not cheap, this elegant sighthound breed is a satisfying companion for the properly prepared owner. Researching breeders, securing financing and budgeting for expenses are key to affording this rare Spanish dog in your home.