My name is Mia Speciale and I am the human behind Crowned Ibizan Hounds. I have been involved with dogs since I was 7 years old. I started showing dogs in 4H and fell in love with handling and training. I loved all aspects of dog sports and knew that it was something that I would like to continue doing forever. I obtained my first 4H dog when I was 9 years old. He was an Australian Shepherd named Wrangler. I planned on training Wrangler for conformation, obedience, and agility. Through training him, I learned many valuable lessons and he really made me just fall deeper in love with handling dogs. I showed him in AKC Juniors, but he was not breed show quality. With my intense love for dogs, it was only natural for me to want to migrate more into the competitive world of dog shows.
After many years of researching dog breeds, I discovered Ibizan Hounds. This breed interested me because of their versatility, beautiful temperaments, and gorgeous looks. I met my first Ibizan hound in 2016 at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show. Her beauty and wonderful personality immediately stood out to me. When I began searching for a breed in 2017, I remembered back to that Ibizan I had met and began researching the breed more and more. I loved all that I read about them online. So, I began talking to breed experts, Susan and Peter Viveiros, and they have helped to assure me the breed was a good fit for me and they have continued to help and mentor me in the breed.
I was offered Charm, CH Icycold Third Time SC, by Karen Catt and quickly fell in love with Ibizan Hound breed. Charm introduced me to the beautiful world of Ibizan Hounds and I really could not have started off my journey with a better dog. Charm has allowed all my dreams to come true. I have shown Charm to a group win, group placements, also finished my AKC Juniors career with Charm with many Best Junior wins. My passion for being competitive in showing dogs was sparked by Charm, driving me to pursue professional handling under the guidance of AKC/PHA registered professional handler Sara Gregware. Charm has really made me fall deep in love with the Ibizan Hound breed. Because of this love, raising Ibizans is the natural next step to prove my dedication. I want to leave my mark on the breed. I strive to create beautiful and healthy beezers capable of winning in the show ring, coursing field, performance ring, and winning the hearts of families as a companion.
I am a member of the Ibizan Hound Club of America (IHCUS), South County Kennel Club and the New England Hound Association.