About the Breed: Pharoah Hound

Breeds

The Pharaoh Hound is one of the oldest known domesticated breeds of coursing sighthounds in the world. With keen instinct, elegance, and athleticism, these hounds were bred to hunt.

History

It is believed that the Phoenicians brought Pharaoh Hounds to the Mediterranean islands of Malta and Gozo over 2,500 years ago, subsequently trading them throughout the ancient world in Egypt, and as far north as Great Britain. Hieroglyphs and statues dating back to 4400 BC resemble Pharaoh Hounds at the chapel of Mereuwka and Senbi.

Amazingly, the breed has remained unchanged in its nature to course and hunt but also be an affectionate, treasured companion. We have the nation of Malta to thank for the preservation and guarding of this breed, who named the Pharaoh Hound their national dog.

These Maltese hounds were brought to the UK in the early 1960s by Pauline and Adam Block, where they were officially named the Pharaoh Hound. The first Pharaoh Hound was introduced in the US by Ruth Taft Harper in 1967; the first Pharaoh Hound litter was whelped in the US in 1970. In 1983, the breed was officially recognized and classified in the AKC Hound Breed Group.

Personality

Known as “Kalb Tal-Fenek” in Malta, which means rabbit dog, ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs describe this historically-intact, primitive breed with a “face (that) glows like a God and he delights to do his work"—these words still describe the Pharoah Hound's uniqueness of temperament and fun spirited disposition today.

Pharaoh Hounds possess the ability to smile with their teeth and will even blush when excited or happy—the skin on their nose, cheeks and/or ears will turn a shade of crimson.

Pharaoh Hounds are highly intelligent, independent, and often cat-like in temperament and habits. Personalities vary in the breed, from shy to bold, but all possess a sense of humor and disposition for zany antics to entertain themselves and you.

They crave companionship and affection from their owners, often becoming your shadow.

Pharaoh Hounds can be talkers, and will alert you to someone at the door as a watch dog (however, they are social and will want to interact with whomever enters your home). They can also “talk back” to you, will whine or make noises to alert you to their needs and desires, and will bark when playing, running, and interacting excitedly with other dogs.

Pharaoh Hounds are not an outside dog, but do require a minimum of an hour a day of exercise to keep them content and obedient around the home. Once exercised physically and mentally, they calm down nicely and will gladly become a cuddly couch potato.

Sensitive in nature, Pharaoh Hounds do not respond to punitive methods of training or communication. Reward-based treats and praise will win you their loyalty and respect.

Pros

Fun loving and eager to interact with their owners.
Excellent running or hiking companions.
Smart, eager to train and play games with their family.
Protective and cautious when danger is sensed.
Affectionate.

Cons

Can be stubborn and independent, even if there’s always a logical reason.
Must be socialized and trained properly–if not, Pharaoh Hounds can develop a fearful disposition.
Not an off-leash dog, they will NOT come back once their prey drive is activated.

Best With

Active owners that will take them along with their pack.
Owners that socialize with other people and dogs.
Homes with a minimum 6 foot solid wooden fence or secure farm fencing and/or electrical fence. Prey drive is high and Pharaoh Hounds will hunt at every opportunity.
Owners who are committed to keeping their Pharaoh Hound on leash at all times whenever the dog is outside of the home or a fenced yard—these are not off-leash dogs.

Not For

Someone who wants a very obedient dog.
Someone who wants a dog they can run off-leash.
People who live in a small space and have no yard.
People who need to leave their dog alone all day.

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Characteristics

Size:

Females:

Average 21-24 inches at the shoulder, and between 35 to 45 pounds.

Males:

Average 23-25 inches at the shoulder, and between 40 to 55 pounds.

Color:

Coat ranges in colors of tan/rich, tan/chestnut with white markings, allowed as follows: White tip on tail strongly desired as this is rare, white on chest (called “the Star”). White on toes and slim white snip on center line of the face is permissible. Flecking or other white is undesirable, except for any solid white spot on the back of the neck, shoulder, or any particular part of the back or sides of the dog, which is a disqualification. (From AKC breed standard.)

Energy Level:

Energetic, highly active dog that settles nicely indoors after exercise.

Life Expectancy:

On average, 11-14 years.

Children:

Pharaoh Hounds typically adore children, especially when raised with them since puppyhood. Pharaohs will see children as part of their pack, and love to play and cuddle with them. They will be protective of babies when on walks with the family, and may growl at strangers if they perceive a threat to the baby.

Other Animals:

When properly socialized, Pharaoh Hounds do well with other dogs and cats. They love to play and interact with other dogs of all sizes. In a rescue situation, careful introduction is required between a Pharaoh Hound and other household pets to help everyone get acquainted.

Due to their strong prey drive, Pharaoh Hounds are not good companions with a rodent, lizard, bird, or rabbit.

Abilities:

Pharaoh Hounds are versatile in many areas, including Lure Coursing, Agility, Obedience, Fly-Ball, Scent Work, Therapy and Emergency Response.

Shedding/Grooming:

Pharaoh Hounds shed very little and require very little grooming. Daily petting, a light brush of their coat, and an occasional bath with cleaning of their ears is all that’s required. Pharaoh Hounds generally stay clean, and regularly groom themselves like a cat does. Their coat does not have any detectable odor or smell. Nail trims should be done at least once a month. To maintain healthy gums and teeth, give dental bones, bully sticks and dental treats daily. After one year of age, consult and use recommendations from vet for lifelong dental health.

Health:

Generally, the Pharaoh Hound is a very healthy breed without any significant disorders. They can have seasonal allergies similar to human environmental allergies, and are sensitive to chemicals. Vaccinations should be given under care and advisement of a veterinarian that is knowledgeable and familiar with the breed.