The Pharaoh Hound is a medium-sized sighthound with a sleek, athletic build, characterized by its elegant lines and large, expressive ears.

Medium

21-25 inches (at the shoulder)

45-55 pounds

Short and glossy

Tan or rich tan, with occasional white markings on the chest, toes, tip of tail, and a slim white snip on the face being permissible

Large, erect, and very mobile

Amber-colored, oval-shaped

Medium length, whip-like, carried high when alert

Pharaoh Hounds are known for their friendly and playful personalities, combined with an independent streak and a keen hunting instinct.

Forms strong bonds with family members and enjoys their company.

Quick learners, but can be easily bored with repetitive training.

Possesses a mind of their own, requiring patient and consistent training.

Enjoys games and activities, especially those that involve chasing.

Makes a good watchdog, but is generally not aggressive.

Responds best to positive reinforcement and gentle handling.

Pharaoh Hounds are best suited for active individuals or families who can provide them with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training.

Generally healthy breed.

Can be vocal.

The ideal owner for a Pharaoh Hound is someone who is active, patient, and experienced with sighthounds or independent breeds. They should be prepared to provide consistent training, ample exercise, and a loving, secure environment.

Pharaoh Hounds are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming, requiring only occasional brushing. They need a balanced diet and a comfortable living environment.

Minimal; brush once a week to remove loose hair.

Only when necessary; their short coat is naturally clean.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level.

Two meals a day are recommended to prevent bloat.

Adaptable to both apartment and house living, provided their exercise needs are met.

Sensitive to cold weather; may need a coat in colder climates.

Pharaoh Hounds are intelligent but can be independent, requiring consistent, positive training. They have high exercise needs, thriving on activities that engage their sighthound instincts.

Pharaoh Hounds are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, but their independent nature can present a challenge. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Short, engaging training sessions are more effective than long, repetitive ones. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they become well-adjusted adults. Due to their strong prey drive, recall training can be difficult and should be practiced in a secure area.

Pharaoh Hounds are energetic dogs that need a significant amount of daily exercise. Long walks, jogging, and opportunities to run in a safely enclosed area are essential. They also enjoy activities that stimulate their minds, such as lure coursing, agility, or interactive games. Without sufficient exercise, they can become restless and destructive.

Establish clear rules and stick to them.

Use treats, praise, and play to motivate your dog.

Expose your Pharaoh Hound to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Ensure your yard has a high, secure fence to prevent escapes.

Be mindful of their strong hunting instinct and keep them on a leash or in a fenced area when outdoors.

Provide puzzle toys and games to keep their minds engaged.

Pharaoh Hounds are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions.

Pharaoh Hounds can be sensitive to certain anesthetics, so it's important to discuss this with your veterinarian before any surgical procedures.

A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and lameness.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position.

Pharaoh Hounds can be prone to skin allergies, which can cause itching and discomfort.

The Pharaoh Hound's lineage traces back thousands of years, with its ancestors believed to have been the hunting dogs of the ancient Phoenicians. These dogs were traded across the Mediterranean, eventually finding a home on the island of Malta, where they were carefully bred for rabbit hunting and became known as the Kelb tal-Fenek (dog of the rabbit). The breed remained relatively isolated for centuries, preserving its unique characteristics. The Pharaoh Hound was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1983, and before, in 1974 by The Kennel Club (UK). Its striking appearance and intriguing history have contributed to its growing popularity worldwide.

Yes, Pharaoh Hounds are generally good with children, especially when raised with them. They are playful and tolerant, but supervision is always recommended with any dog and young children.

Pharaoh Hounds are not excessive barkers, but they can be vocal when excited or alerted to something. Early training can help manage their barking tendencies.

Pharaoh Hounds are generally clean dogs and are relatively easy to housebreak with consistent training and a regular schedule.

Pharaoh Hounds need at least 1-2 hours of exercise per day, including walks, runs, and playtime. They also benefit from activities that engage their minds, such as lure coursing or agility.

Yes, Pharaoh Hounds can adapt to apartment living, provided their exercise needs are met. They are relatively quiet indoors and do not require a large yard.

No, Pharaoh Hounds have a short, smooth coat and are considered low-shedding dogs. Weekly brushing is sufficient to keep their coat healthy.

Pharaoh Hounds can be good with other dogs, especially if they are socialized from a young age. However, their strong prey drive may make them unsuitable for homes with small pets like cats or rabbits.

The average lifespan of a Pharaoh Hound is 11-14 years.

You can find Pharaoh Hound breeders through the Pharaoh Hound Club of America or other reputable breed clubs. You can also consider adopting a Pharaoh Hound from a rescue organization specializing in sighthounds.

Yes, while gaining in popularity, they are still considered a relatively rare breed.