Pharaoh Hound History
Few dogs can claim a lineage as ancient and noble as the Pharaoh Hound. Tracing their origins back more than 5,000 years, these fascinating canines have lived through epochs, from being the companions of Egyptian Pharaohs to becoming Malta’s national treasure. Historical artifacts and art have showcased their unique features, and writings from ancient Egypt even describe a long-tailed red dog that blushes—characteristics so distinctly Pharaoh Hound.
The breed’s journey began in Egypt, where they were likely used in hunting expeditions by royals and nobles. Depictions dating as far back as 4000 BC show these dogs actively participating in hunting sessions, especially targeting gazelles. It is believed that Phoenician traders were the ones who introduced the breed to Malta, where they received the name “Kelb tal-Fenek,” or “dog of the rabbit,” owing to their rabbit-hunting skills. In Malta, the breed survived and thrived, becoming a national emblem.
The Pharaoh Hound’s introduction to the Western world is relatively recent. The first Pharaoh Hounds landed in England in the 1930s and made their American debut in 1967. The breed got its official recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1984. Even today, these dog remains a relatively rare sight in the U.S., but those who encounter one are immediately captivated by its unique personality and stunning appearance.
Pharaoh Hound Characteristics
This breed is the epitome of grace and strength, enveloped in an elegant, streamlined body. Male Pharaoh Hounds typically stand between 23 to 25 inches at the shoulder, while females measure slightly less, at 21 to 24 inches. They generally weigh 45 to 55 pounds, making them medium-sized but extremely agile canines. Don’t let their slim build fool you; these dogs are powerhouses regarding stamina and speed, which historically served them well in hunts across Egypt’s desert landscapes and Malta’s rocky terrains.
The Pharaoh Hound’s coat is an elegant spectacle in itself. The coat color ranges from rich to chestnut tan and might contain tiny white markings on the tail, toes, or chest. Although their short coats do shed, their grooming needs are minimal—making them relatively low-maintenance.
Pharaoh Hound Personality
If you’re searching for a pet that combines the best traits of a loyal companion and an entertaining clown, look no further than the Pharaoh Hound. These dogs are incredibly people-oriented, forming strong bonds with their human families. They love to entertain and have a playful, almost comical nature. Expect your Pharaoh Hound to be the star of the family gathering or the talk of the dog park with their amusing antics. However, these dogs aren’t just about fun and games; they also have a compassionate side. They can pick up on the emotional vibes around them and often act accordingly.
One thing that surprises many people is that the Pharaoh Hound blushes! Yes, in moments of extreme emotion or excitement, their ears and nose can turn a charming shade of pink, adding another layer to their already captivating personality.
Despite their friendly and outgoing nature with their human families, Pharaoh Hounds can be somewhat aloof or reserved around strangers. It’s not that they are inherently unfriendly; instead, they take their time to evaluate new people and situations. Therefore, early socialization is crucial for this breed.
Pharaoh Hound Life Span
One of the most alluring aspects of the Pharaoh Hound is its longevity. On average, this breed can live up to 12 to 15 years, making it a long-term commitment for anyone considering adding one to their family. Proper veterinary care and a balanced diet can even extend this lifespan. With their genetic predisposition towards good health and less vulnerability to some common canine illnesses, Pharaoh Hounds are generally hardy animals that can share many fulfilling years with you.
Pharaoh Hound Family Life
Regarding family life, the Pharaoh Hound is unparalleled in its capacity for love and affection. This breed forms deep emotional bonds with its family members and has a particular fondness for children. Its playful nature and boundless energy make it a fantastic companion for kids. However, like any breed, teaching children how to interact with dogs appropriately is essential. Adults should supervise playtime between younger kids and the Pharaoh Hound to ensure the child and dog treat each other respectfully.
The Pharaoh Hound’s strong bond with its family also means it does not do well with extended periods of isolation. This breed thrives on companionship and loves being in the company of its human pack. It is not a breed that can be left alone in the yard for hours; doing so could lead to destructive behavior or excessive barking.
Pharaoh Hound Habitat and Diet
Originating from the warm climates of Egypt and Malta, the Pharaoh Hound is more suited to temperate and warm environments. They can adapt to cooler temperatures, although a warm doggy sweater will be appreciated during winter. This breed can adapt whether you live in an apartment or have a large yard. However, sufficient space to run and exercise is recommended due to its high energy levels.
When it comes to diet, giving your Pharaoh Hound a balanced meal is essential. These dogs do well on high-quality dry food, rich in protein and low in fillers. Some Pharaoh Hounds have food allergies, so finding the food that best suits them may take trial and error. A regular feeding schedule of two meals daily is recommended over free feeding to keep this naturally slim dog from becoming overweight.
Pharaoh Hound Temperament
The Pharaoh Hound is a complex creature with a temperament combining high energy levels and deep sensitivity. These dogs are friendly and outgoing and get along well with humans and animals, but they can also be aloof with strangers. They are generally very trainable due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. Yet, they also have a stubborn streak that requires patience and positive training techniques.
They’re not a good fit for homes that prefer a low-energy, low-maintenance pet. These dogs require both mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy. A bored Pharaoh Hound can quickly become a destructive one. Conversely, a well-exercised, mentally stimulated Pharaoh Hound is a joy.
Pharaoh Hound Behavior With Other Animals
Generally, Pharaoh Hounds coexist peacefully with other dogs, especially if socialized from a young age. However, they can sometimes show aggression towards dogs of the same sex. Considering adding a Pharaoh Hound to a home with existing pets, it’s crucial to consider all animals’ temperaments.
It’s important to note that Pharaoh Hounds have a strong prey drive. Their lineage as rabbit and gazelle hunters is still a part of them, meaning smaller animals might be viewed as prey rather than potential friends. Therefore, homes with smaller pets like cats, rabbits, or even small dog breeds should think carefully before bringing a Pharaoh Hound into the mix.
Pharaoh Hound Coat Color And Grooming
The coat of a Pharaoh Hound ranges from rich to chestnut tan, sometimes accented with small patches of white on the chest, toes, or tail tip. This short coat has a fine to slightly harsh texture, making it reasonably easy to manage. A simple weekly brushing session using a hound glove should suffice to keep loose hairs at bay. This breed lacks the strong “doggy odor” many other breeds possess, so frequent baths are generally not necessary. A damp cloth can often handle daily dirt and debris, keeping your Pharaoh Hound looking sleek and well-groomed. Please pay attention to their skin, which can be prone to nicks and cuts, and always check for signs of irritation or infection.
Pharaoh Hound Health
Pharaoh Hounds are generally healthy but are susceptible to specific health conditions like allergies and sensitivity to anesthesia. Your vet should know this breed’s unique needs, particularly when administering anesthesia, due to their lower body fat than other dogs. Responsible breeders will provide health clearances for various conditions, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues, and blood clotting disorders. Always consult a vet for an individualized healthcare plan for your Pharaoh Hound.
Pharaoh Hound Price
The price of a Pharaoh Hound can vary widely depending on factors like breeder reputation, location, and lineage. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for a Pharaoh Hound puppy from a reputable breeder. This initial cost doesn’t include ongoing expenses like food, grooming, and healthcare, which can add several hundred dollars per year to your budget.
Pharaoh Hound Trainability
Pharaoh Hounds are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them reasonably easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. Harsh or repetitive methods will not yield results; instead, they may make the dog disengaged or anxious. Short, varied training sessions that end on a high note will likely be the most effective approach for this breed. Their instinctual prey drive, however, can be a hurdle in off-leash situations, making a securely fenced area essential for safe play.
Pharaoh Hound Care
The care routine for a Pharaoh Hound revolves around their physical and emotional needs. They require at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise daily, which can be met through jogging, agility training, or lure coursing. Due to their sensitivity to cold, a sweater or jacket is advised for chilly outings. Their diet should be carefully monitored to ensure they get the proper nutrients without the extra calories, as they are naturally slender dogs.
