Pharaoh Hound | Dog Breed

Last updated May 29, 2024

Size

Varies

Popularity

One of the Most Popular

Typical Lifespan

About 12 years

Exercise

Pharaoh Hounds thrive on daily vigorous exercise, including long walks and active play sessions.

Grooming Needs

Pharaoh Hounds have minimal grooming needs, requiring only occasional brushing to remove loose hair and maintain their sleek coat. Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are also recommended.

Country of Origin

Malta

Adaptability

Pharaoh Hounds are versatile and can thrive in both apartment living and rural settings, provided they get sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.

Shedding Level

Pharaoh Hounds shed minimally year-round, making them a low-maintenance breed in terms of grooming.

Energiness

Pharaoh Hounds are highly energetic and need regular, vigorous exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Vocality

Pharaoh Hounds are generally quiet but may bark when excited or alerting their owners to something unusual.

Trainability

Pharaoh Hounds are intelligent and can be trained effectively with consistent, positive reinforcement, though they may exhibit a stubborn streak.

Dietary Needs

Pharaoh Hounds need a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein to support their active lifestyle and lean muscle mass.

Weight Range

45-55 lbs

Child Friendliness

Varies

Social Needs

For Whom?

The Pharaoh Hound, an ancient and enigmatic dog breed, is ideally suited for a home that values an active lifestyle and understands the dog's need for daily exercise and mental stimulation. This breed enjoys long walks, running, and playing, so the ideal home would have plenty of space to move around and possibly access to a safe outdoor area.

Since the Pharaoh Hound is intelligent and independent, it requires an owner who is consistent and understanding, yet gentle and patient. Due to the dog's independence, it may not be suitable for a first-time dog owner, but rather for an individual or family with experience handling stubborn and intelligent dogs.

This breed adapts well to family life and gets along with children and other pets, provided it is properly socialized. The Pharaoh Hound values the company of its family and enjoys participating in family activities. Therefore, it is best suited to a home where it can be an integral part of everyday family life and where its sociability and playfulness are appreciated.

Since the Pharaoh Hound tends to be reserved around strangers, the home should be one where the dog can gradually get used to new people at its own pace. A calm and predictable environment helps this breed feel secure.

In summary, the Pharaoh Hound thrives in an active, loving, and understanding home where it receives plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and family time. Such a home offers the best setting for this magnificent and historic dog breed, bringing joy and vitality to its surroundings.

Character

Energetic

Intelligent

Playful

Alert

Known as the Pharaoh Hound, this breed exudes a royal essence and history, tracing back to ancient Egypt. Behind its noble appearance lies a playful and lovable friend.

The Pharaoh Hound is an energetic and lively companion that loves spending time with its family. Its expressive nature and ability to "smile" make it irresistibly personable. This breed is like a treasure that brings joy and vibrancy to everyday home life.

This intelligent dog learns quickly and enjoys practicing new tricks and tasks. Its eagerness to please and agile mind make it an excellent partner for various hobbies and activities. The Pharaoh Hound also has an independent streak, which can sometimes lead to a bit of stubbornness, but this also makes the breed unique and interesting.

While the Pharaoh Hound enjoys exercise and adventures, it also knows how to relax and enjoy time with its family. It is loyal and protective, yet not overly possessive. Its friendly and warm demeanor makes it a good companion for other pets and in children's games.

The Pharaoh Hound is a great choice for an active family that values both the energetic and calm sides of their dog. It retains its mysterious charm and fascinating history while sharing joyful moments and life's little adventures with its family.

This breed captivates everyone around it with its unique charisma and zest for life. The Pharaoh Hound is more than just a pet; it is a friend that enriches life and adds new meaning to it.

History

The roots of the Pharaoh Hound are as mysterious and fascinating as the ancient Egyptian civilization itself. This elegant and noble breed dates back thousands of years and is believed to be one of the oldest purebred dogs in the world. Ancestors of the Pharaoh Hound were often depicted in ancient Egyptian tombs and temples, playing significant roles not only in hunting but also as divine beings.

Despite its name linking directly to ancient Egypt, the breed is nowadays particularly associated with the island of Malta. The Pharaoh Hounds were brought to Malta by Phoenician traders who crossed the Mediterranean Sea with these dogs. In Malta, these dogs are known as "Kelb tal-Fenek," which refers to their ability to hunt rabbits.

By the 20th century, the unique appearance and hunting abilities of the Pharaoh Hound caught the interest of dog enthusiasts. The breed was first registered with a Kennel Club in the 1970s, and since then, its popularity has steadily grown both in dog shows and among dog owners.

The refined demeanor and athletic structure of the Pharaoh Hound have made it a prized hunting dog, particularly skilled due to its excellent sight and field abilities. Its natural elegance and dignity are also reflected in its behavior, as Pharaoh Hounds are known for their calmness and friendly nature.

Today, Pharaoh Hounds are beloved pets that adapt well to various living conditions. They are loyal and intelligent companions who enjoy being around people and leading an active lifestyle. The history of the Pharaoh Hound is rich and nuanced, continuing to live on both in the hunting fields and in the hearts of pet owners, preserving its noble heritage and ancient mystique.