Pharaoh Hound Dog Breed Personality, Grooming Requirements, History and Lifestyle Suggestions

The Pharaoh Hound has a short smooth coat of a rich tan colour, which is not sufficient to protect them from cold weather. Standing some 21-25 inches high and weighing approximately 54-55 pounds, they're classed as a medium-sized dog. They are an elegant looking dog, with very distinctive ears and a long muscular neck. They are energetic and agile with a good turn of speed, also being fairly independent in nature. They have an intuitive intelligence, which can be seen in their stance. Although they are independent in nature, they mix well as a family pet, seeing the family as their group or pack. The engendered intelligence of this animal makes them respond well to training.

History. The Pharaoh hound begins its history in ancient Egypt. Although there are myths and Legends surrounding the breed, mummified and skeletal remains have been found in Egyptian tombs that strongly resemble the modern Pharaoh. Some 3,000-4,000 years ago they were introduced to Malta by the Phoenician traders, who colonized the island. At some point the traders abandoned the islands leaving the dogs behind, where they continued to breed and forage for themselves for approximately 2000 years. This may explain how this dog so closely resembles its ancestors, as there were no other breeds of dog upon the island, at that time.

Whereas in Egypt with the variety of dogs in the country this breed all but disappeared, thereby attributing them to Malta. Having been originally bred as Pharaohs hunt dogs, and subsequently left alone to fend for themselves for 2000 years, may explain why their hunting instinct is so deep and apparently inbred.

Temperament. As mentioned the Pharaoh hound is an instinctive hunter, this has the implication that, unless they are introduced as a puppy to other household pets, they may view some of them as fare game, to be hunted. They are very active and require a good level of exercise. This is a breed which should be walked on a leash, and only allowed independent exercise in a well fenced area as, once they have the scent, they are very difficult to call off the hunt. Even after extensive training this instinct can still be a problem. They are independent in their own thinking and actions, but they do interact with families well and enjoy playing, but remember they may be stronger than they look.

Care should be taken around small children as they may get knocked over in play, it will undoubtedly be an accident as, whilst these dogs are accomplished hunters, they are not malicious in nature.

Health issues. The Pharaoh hound, to this day, remains most common in Malta. They are apparently not profitable dogs to breed. As a result of this the dogs suffer no serious genetic disorders. In the past unscrupulous dog breeders have been known to cut corners, although reputable breeders and kennel clubs have tried to quash these people's efforts.

These dogs are still given a variety of tests to ensure a healthy breeding, but reputable dog breeders should not be a problem. However, because their ears are large and fairly thin they can suffer in cold weather, remember their natural habitat is Malta.

Grooming. As a low shedder these dogs are ideal for people who do not have the time to dedicate to grooming. Simple brushing now and then and wiping grubby areas with a damp cloth are pretty much all the Pharaoh hound requires. They do have a somewhat sensitive skin and the use of heavy shampoos or detergents is not advised, a dry shampoo is probably the best answer.

Living conditions. As long as they are introduced at a very young age they will socialise well with other animals, although care should be taken with smaller pets due to the dogs' strong hunting instinct. They are happy with children and enjoy playing, along with the best of them. They are best suited to a more experienced owner, than to have as your first dog.

Remember the dog is very fast and very active when unrestrained, at play, they need to be kept in a fairly secure area, and a well fenced garden should be adequate for this. They are not really suited to life in an apartment, and should always be kept on a leash when outdoors in public.