Pharaoh Hound

Appearance

Pharaoh Hound
Pharaoh Hound Quick Summary
Also Known As
OriginEgypt
SizeMedium
Height (at withers)21-25in (53-63.5cm)
Weight45-55lbs (20-25kg)
Hair Colour(s)Chestnut, tan
Lifespan12-15 years
Energy LevelMedium
Litter size7-8
SheddingLow
GroomingLow
Barking TendencyMedium
Exercise requirementsMedium
Ease of trainingLow
Suitability for kidsHigh
Animal compatabilityLow
Aggression levelsLow
Distress if leftMedium

The Pharaoh Hound is an elegant and noble looking dog similar in appearance to a greyhound. The sleek and nimble body has a deep chest with well-sprung ribs, an almost straight topline, straight front legs and a thin tail carried high. The head is long and wedge-shaped, with a long slim muzzle, oval-shaped amber eyes, and large, erect ears. Uniquely, this dog has the ability to blush when excited, where the nose and ears will turn a rosy colour. The coat is short, close and glossy in texture, and the colouring tends to be tan or rich chestnut with white markings.

Temperament

Pharaoh Hounds are elegant and dignified dogs that also tend to be well-behaved. Although not particularly cuddly dogs, they are affectionate and do enjoy companionship and interaction. They are also energetic and agile and make great companions and family pets, especially for more active people, but will also tend to remain calm while indoors. Proper, early socialisation is essential with this breed because they can have a tendency towards being timid, and are also prone to barking. These are sighthounds with excellent eyesight, and being very intelligent they have a fairly good learning rate. Despite this, training can be something of a challenge and so they are best suited to those with some experience of dog ownership, rather than novices. Pharaoh Hounds get along very well with children and normally with other pets too, but they cannot be trusted around smaller pets such as cats and rabbits due to their very strong chasing instincts. Around strangers they tend to be cautious yet polite and inquisitive. And although they often like to bark, they still make effective watchdogs.

History & Skills

Pharaoh Hounds originate from Egypt, as can be expected from their name, and their roots can be traced back to Ancient times. Popular amonst the rulers, they then went on to gain popularity in Malta, where they were used for hunting rabbits before spreading out into Europe and America. Now the national dog of Malta, these days they do well in lure coursing and make fine family pets.

Breed Specific Ailments

Pharaoh Hounds tend to live between 12-15 years, and are generally a very healthy breed indeed. Some of the health concerns that have been noted include optic nerve problems and sensitivity to medication and insecticides.

Grooming

Pharaoh Hounds are low shedders and so are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Their grooming requirements are pretty low too, and the coat will simply need brushing and wiping down woth a damp cloth ocassionally to remove dead hairs and keep it in good condition. Bathing or dry shampooing can be carried out when necessary.

Exercise & Environment

Pharaoh Hounds are flexible but tend to live indoors, and are even suitable for small homes prividing they are exercised enough. Indoors they are calm and well-behaved, but they love to stretch their legs when outdoors and run. A daily walk and access to a yard or garden should be enough for these dogs, but as they have strong hunting instincts, they may tend to follow scents. Therefore the outside areas must be secure, and the walks should be carried out on a leash.