PHARAOH HOUND
APPEARANCE
The Pharaoh Hound has a graceful and elegant build, and is medium to large in size. With its sleek, powerful and nimble body, he is able to run down rocky terrain and chase fast-moving game. This breed’s overall look is one of grace and nobility. The coat of the Pharaoh Hound is short, close fitting, and glossy. The coloring of the coat is tan or rich chestnut, with white markings. He is noted for his ability to blush: his ears and nose become flushed when it’s excited. You will notice his nose and ears turning a rosy color. The height of the Pharaoh Hound is around 21-23 inches for females, and 23-25 inches for males. These dogs weigh in at around 40-60 pounds.
PERSONALITY
The Pharaoh Hound is an intelligent, trainable, playful and active breed. These dogs often like to bark, and although this makes him an effective watchdog he may not be the right choice for those looking for a quiet life. He is not a dog that likes to be overly cuddled, but he is an affectionate creature that enjoys the companionship and interaction.
TRAINING
The Pharaoh Hound is very trainable when appropriate positive training methods are used. He is a very sensitive breed and responds poorly if being physically punished. Pharaohs can succeed in competition obedience, but they do not take to it naturally as many breeds that were bred to work alongside Man. Pharaohs were bred to hunt and think for themselves, and they have retained this trait for thousands of years. They tire/bore easily with repetitive commands, therefore it is the trainer’s job to ensure that their training remains interesting and positive in nature.
EXERCISE
The Pharaoh Hound enjoys stretching its legs with regular runs. Although long walks would suffice for this strapping breed, the Pharaoh hound can be a challenging workout companion that an active owner may want to make the most of. The Pharaoh Hound does need a fair amount of exercise, but should only be allowed to run free in a properly secured and safe area if he is not on a leash, as he will chase most things that run. Although the Pharaoh Hound likes to play and exercise, he is also fond of his creature comforts and will make himself comfortable indoors.
SOCIALIZATION
He is sociable with other dogs and with people, however he can be aloof/reserved with strangers. He is typically very open and affectionate with its family and those it knows. He has a strong hunting instinct, and caution should be observed when it is around small pets such as cats, birds, and rodents.
The Pharaoh Hound gets along very well with children, and will always be ready to play and have some fun.
LIVING CONDITIONS
This well-behaved dog will do quite well indoors, even in an apartment, provided it is taken out often to exercise. Access to a large, securely fenced yard is ideal for this breed, as it likes to run, but tends to follow hunting leads with its sense of smell, and will find it easy to jump over low fences. This breed prefers to sleep indoors, on warm and comfortable bed.
GROOMING
Rubber brushing for the Pharaoh Hound is fine for removing loose and dead hair. An average shedding breed, this dog does not need regular bathing, only when necessary. As a low shedder the Pharaoh Hound may also prove ideal for those with allergies.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Pharaoh Hound is around 12-15 years. This breed tends to be very healthy, with no known deficiencies or inherited disorders, though it may be extremely sensitive to medication and insecticides.
HISTORY
The Pharaoh Hound has an incredibly long and rich history, originating from Egypt with roots that can be traced back to Ancient times. The Pharaoh Hound, now the national dog of Malta, was so named for its resemblance to ancient Egyptian depictions of dogs and Anubis, the jackal god of Egyptian mythology. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1983.
