I am most happy to have “Sultan” from Martina Rabe, accomplished huntswoman and long time Ibizan breeder. Her “Melqart” Ibizans and their progeny are well known in the show ring in Europe and the United States and, more importantly, in Spain for their hunting ability. Sultan was a lovely puppy as shown above at 11 weeks and one of those “together” from the beginning, a sign of promise fulfilled as an adult. He illustrates key characteristics of this breed: moderation in structure and the steady temperament needed in a versatile, working breed.

Above: These photos attempt to show in a humorous way Sultan being true to his origins. At right he brings his prize to my back door.

Function is primary in Melqart dogs, used and valued by hunters today for their structure and “hunting intelligence”. They are used by hunters on horseback or on foot with and without guns against a variety of game including rabbit, deer, and assisting against wild boar.

Importing dogs like Sultan from active hunting kennels is a cornerstone of my breeding program, intended to preserve the characteristics of function and instinct which distinguish the Ibizan Hound as a specific breed. See also “Fresca”, “Blaia", and "Ferran" for more such dogs. Function entails not only the correct structure but also the temperament essential for a dog to maintain the self control to locate, catch, and bring to hand the rabbit intact and alive to the huntsman who hunts in the purest, age old way, with the dog only and without use of a gun.

Sultan has a handsome head often seen in the Melqart males in particular. He has a delightful and gentle temperament and while at ease in the house, prefers to be outside.

Above left: With siblings in Spain; Above right: Sultan 12 weeks

Above left: Coursing practice; Above right: Cooling off in a crater he dug for himself.