Pharaoh Hound

Group

Hounds

Weight

23-25 kg

Height

58-63 cm

Lifespan

11-14 years

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About the Pharaoh Hound

Reviewed by:

Dr. Liza Cahn

Veterinarian

The Pharaoh Hound is an elegant dog with a rich tan coat. These rare dogs make the most wonderful companions and are very sensitive towards their owners’ emotions, which means you will never be short of cuddles and love with this breed in your life!

What is the history & origin of the Pharaoh Hound?

The Pharaoh Hound’s lineage is cloaked in a blend of historical records and long-standing myths. While often associated with ancient Egyptian art, there’s no conclusive evidence to pinpoint the breed’s exact Egyptian origins. Instead, the dog’s modern identity is deeply connected to Malta.

Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean, is where the Pharaoh Hound developed its unique characteristics. Here, the breed was traditionally known as “Kelb tal-Fenek”, which translates to “rabbit dog”. These dogs were skilled hunters, predominantly chasing after rabbits.

The breed’s name later evolved from its traditional Maltese title to the more universally recognized “Pharaoh Hound”. It was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1984.

What is a Pharaoh Hound breed?

This purebred member of the hound group exhibits a sleek, slender build complemented by a short, glossy coat that often shines in rich tan hues. Their expressive amber eyes and large, erect ears give them a regal and alert appearance.

Despite their beauty, Pharaoh Hounds are a working breed and are still used for farming and hunting today. They are also great companion dogs and are known to be loving and oftentimes very funny.

Although they have a high level of athleticism, they are not the type to be used as protection dogs. They are instead a sensitive breed and love to receive affection from their humans. They are even known as the blushing dog – when they are excited or happy, their noses and the inside of their ears turn a rosy pink.

Who is a Pharaoh Hound best for?

Pharaoh Hounds are ideal for owners with sighthound experience, however can also do well with dedicated first time owners.
They can adapt well to living in an apartment, although require a significant amount of exercise.
They are ideal for families with older children.
They get along with other dogs so would do well in homes with other pets, although they do have a high prey drive.
Those looking for a low maintenance coat, as this breed requires minimal grooming and is not a big shedder.

Pharaoh Hound Grooming & Shedding

Pharaoh Hounds have a short, glossy coat. They do shed excessively, yet it is still recommended to brush them weekly. They do not have a strong odour, so do not need frequent baths.

Consistent nail trims and teeth brushing are also recommended.

Overall this breed requires very little commitment to grooming. However, it is still important to frequently check them over and alert your vet to any abnormalities.

Do Pharaoh Hounds bark a lot?

The Pharaoh Hound tends to bark. They are known to bark while they are chasing prey or when they feel threatened and sense danger.

They were originally bred for catching rabbits and therefore have a very high prey drive, which can be triggered by small animals and may lead to barking. Incessant barking may also be the cause of stress and anxiety as they do not like to be left alone for long periods.

What is the average weight & height of a Pharaoh Hound dog?

Average Height:

Males: 58 to 63 cm
Females: 53 to 61 cm

Average Weight:

Males: 23 to 25 kg
Females: 20 to 23 kg

Are Pharaoh Hounds easy to train?

The Pharaoh Hound is considered easy to train. They are very intelligent working dogs, and are eager to take on new challenges It is always a good idea to train and socialise from a young age to avoid unwanted habits and bad behaviour as they get older.

Always use positive reinforcement training methods when training a Pharaoh Hound. These sensitive dogs will not react well to harsh words or punishment, which can exacerbate behavioral issues.

Training sessions should be kept short and fun. These dogs are known for their sense of humor, and extra hugs and pets will the process more enjoyable for both of you.

Training has many levels, and the Pharaoh Hound could be considered for puppy kindergarten, obedience training, dog sports, confirmation, and even therapy work.

How do Pharaoh Hounds behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Here is what you can expect from your Pharaoh Hound’s personality and temperament:

Easy to train
Intelligent
A high prey drive – They require training to be around smaller animals, and are prone to running away if off leash.
Energetic – They require lots of exercise.
Playful and friendly
Can be sensitive to change – socialise them as early as possible.
An undemanding dog
They are sensitive and will easily pick up on their owner’s emotions.

Although they are sighthounds they are not the type to be a guard dog, watchdog or protection dog.

Does the Pharaoh Hound have any common health issues?

The Pharaoh Hound is considered an especially healthy breed! However, common health problems may include:

Anesthesia Sensitivity – Unlike some other sighthounds, Pharaoh Hounds don’t exhibit extreme sensitivity to anesthesia. However, it’s vital for veterinarians to be aware of their breed-specific needs during surgical procedures.
Allergies – This breed can be sensitive to food allergies, contact allergies, and inhalant allergies should be checked for.

When adopting a Pharaoh Hound, you must find a reputable breeder who will provide proof of health screening and responsible breeding practices.

What is the lifespan of a Pharaoh Hound?

The life expectancy of the Pharaoh Hound is 11 to 14 years.

How much does a Pharaoh Hound need to be fed?

You should work together with your trusted veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to decide the most appropriate food for your pup.

When choosing a diet, look for WSAVA and AAFCO seals of approval, indicating that the food is complete and balanced. Boutique diets such as raw or grain-free food should be avoided due to risk of heart disease and infection.

Most owners feed two meals per day after puppyhood, with the amount depending on your dog’s diet, size, and activity level. You can give your dog quality treats in moderation, especially during training, but avoid feeding table scraps as this could be unhealthy and also result in unwanted begging behaviour.

As with many large or deep chested breeds, bloat (twisting of the stomach also known as gastric dilitation and volvulus or GDV) is possible, so feeding smaller more frequent meals, encouraging eating slowly, and avoiding exercise after meals is recommended.

Plenty of fresh water should also be available.

How much can you expect to pay for a Pharaoh Hound in Australia?

They are a rare dog breed in some parts of the world. You can expect to pay upwards of $7000 for a Pharaoh Hound. It’s essential to recognize that the initial cost of the puppy is only a small part of the total expenses. Ongoing costs for food, veterinary care, grooming, training, and other necessities should also be factored into your budget.

Be sure that you find a breeder who follows responsible breeding practices and utilizes appropriate testing and veterinary care to contribute to the health and temperament of their puppies.

Adopting a dog through an animal shelter or breed-specific rescue is another excellent option.

Pharaoh Hound FAQs

Is a Pharaoh Hound Ideal for a first-time dog owner?

This dog breed can be a good match for first-time owners. Despite a stubborn streak, they are easy to train, and their grooming needs are minimal. With their ability to match their owners’ emotions, you will find a very good companion in the Pharaoh Hound.

Do Pharaoh Hounds suffer from separation anxiety?

This breed is highly sensitive and can become very attached to their owners, thus may experience separation anxiety. They are known to bark and howl when stressed.