Overview
The Ca de Conills is the warren hound of the Spanish island of Menorca. It is the least known of the six dog breeds listed by the Balearic government.
It varies greatly in size and has no written standard, having been selected by hunters for hunting skill rather than looks.
History
Until the mid-twentieth century it was widely used to hunt rabbits without guns. Myxomatosis reached the Balearic Islands in 1952, rabbits declined and so did the dogs.
The Balearic government recognises it as a breed grouping, though not the Spanish kennel society or the FCI. A 2024 census counted 316 animals. Falling rabbit numbers and imports of other warren hounds threaten it.
Appearance
Size is variable, in three groups: small at about 30 cm, medium at 40 to 50 cm and large at 60 to 70 cm at the withers. The coat is about 2 to 5 cm long.
Tan with white markings is the most common colour, in about two-thirds of dogs. Black and black-and-white are rare.
Temperament
A skilled, keen hunter that works by scent, sight and hearing. It is agile and used to working in a team with dogs of other sizes.
Care and exercise
It needs lots of daily activity and room to run, and suits hunting or very active homes. Its short coat is easy to maintain.
