The Pharaoh Hound stands as one of the oldest documented dog breeds in existence, with a history stretching back thousands of years. These elegant sighthounds combine regal bearing with playful energy, making them distinctive companions in today’s world. Their most remarkable feature is their unique ability to “blush” – their nose and ears turning a rosy pink when they’re excited or happy, an endearing trait that sets them apart from other breeds.
Historical Background
Despite their name suggesting Egyptian origins, the Pharaoh Hound’s true heritage lies in Malta, where they’re known as “Kelb tal-Fenek” (rabbit dog). While they bear a striking resemblance to dogs depicted in ancient Egyptian artifacts, genetic studies suggest they were developed on the Mediterranean islands of Malta and Gozo, where they were bred for hunting rabbits across rocky terrain. The breed remained relatively isolated on these islands until the 1960s, helping preserve their ancient characteristics. The first pair arrived in Britain in 1968, and they were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1983.
Physical Characteristics and Size
Pharaoh Hounds possess a distinctive athletic build that combines strength with elegance. Males typically stand 23-25 inches at the shoulder, while females measure 21-24 inches. Their weight ranges from 45-55 pounds for males and 40-50 pounds for females. They feature a long, wedge-shaped head, large, erect ears, and an athletic, streamlined body built for speed and agility. Their eyes are amber-colored and often described as intelligent and expressive.
Personality and Temperament
These dogs exhibit a fascinating dual personality. In the home, they’re typically gentle, affectionate, and even somewhat silly with their families. However, when on the hunt or in pursuit of something interesting, they transform into focused, determined athletes. They display remarkable intelligence but often combine it with an independent streak that can make training interesting. Pharaoh Hounds show loyalty to their families while maintaining a dignified reserve with strangers, though they’re rarely shy or aggressive.
Health Considerations
The Pharaoh Hound benefits from generally good health and a relatively long lifespan of 12-14 years. However, prospective owners should be aware of several potential health issues:
- Drug sensitivities, particularly to anesthesia
- Hypothyroidism
- Some susceptibility to stress-related digestive issues
- Potential for bloat, though less common than in deeper-chested breeds
Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing through reputable breeders help maintain their health.
Care Requirements
These ancient hunters require both physical and mental stimulation to thrive. They need daily exercise, ideally including opportunities to run in a safely enclosed area, as their prey drive can lead them to chase small animals. Their intelligence demands mental engagement through training, puzzle toys, or interactive play. While they can adapt to apartment living if properly exercised, they do best with access to a securely fenced yard, as they can easily clear standard fences when motivated.
Feeding Guidelines
Pharaoh Hounds typically thrive on high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Their metabolism tends to run high, so they may require more calories than similarly sized breeds, especially if very active. Meal portions should be adjusted based on activity level, age, and individual metabolism to maintain their naturally lean build. Many owners find that dividing daily portions into two meals helps prevent digestive issues.
Coat Color and Grooming
The breed comes in various shades of tan, ranging from light beige to deep chestnut, often with white markings on the chest, toes, and tail tip. Their short, glossy coat requires minimal grooming – weekly brushing usually suffices to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. They’re moderate shedders and naturally clean dogs with little “dog odor.” Regular nail trimming, dental care, and ear checking complete their grooming needs.
Interaction with Children
Pharaoh Hounds generally interact well with children, especially when raised with them. Their playful nature and gentle disposition make them good companions for older kids who understand how to respectfully interact with dogs. However, their size and enthusiasm during play mean they should always be supervised with small children. Early socialization helps ensure they develop appropriate behaviors around children of all ages.
Rescue and Breeding Organizations
Due to their relative rarity, finding a Pharaoh Hound through rescue can be challenging but not impossible. The Pharaoh Hound Club of America maintains a rescue network and can direct interested adopters to available dogs. For those seeking puppies, the club also maintains a breeder referral service to help connect prospective owners with reputable breeders who perform appropriate health testing and follow ethical breeding practices.
This breed’s combination of ancient heritage, unique appearance, and engaging personality makes them a fascinating choice for the right owner. While they may not be suitable for every household, those who can provide the exercise, training, and engagement they need will find themselves with an extraordinary companion that connects them to thousands of years of canine history.