Pharaoh Hound Guide: History, Temperament, Size and Care for Adopters

Pharaoh Hound history and breed facts

The Pharaoh Hound is a very ancient breed that closely resembles hounds shown in Egyptian temples and the dog god Anubis. It is a sighthound that can also hunt by scent, and because Malta was relatively isolated, the breed has bred true to form there for a very long time. AKC lists Malta as the breed's origin and places it in the Hound Group. Both AKC and UKC recognized the breed in 1983. Pharaoh Hounds are said to have a distinctive habit of blushing, when excitement can turn the ears, nose and even eyes a rosy hue.

Pharaoh Hound size

AKC classes the Pharaoh Hound as a medium-sized dog and gives a weight of 45-55 pounds. For height, AKC gives 23-25 inches for males and 21-24 inches for females, while UKC gives 22 to 25 inches for dogs and 21 to 24 inches for bitches.

Pharaoh Hound temperament and personality

AKC's temperament words for the breed are friendly, smart and noble. UKC describes the breed as intelligent, friendly, affectionate and playful, with a marked keenness for hunting by sight and scent.

On the question of whether Pharaoh Hounds are good family dogs, AKC rates family affection at 5 of 5 but child compatibility at 3 of 5, so introductions with children are worth supervising. The same ratings give dog compatibility 5 of 5 and stranger openness 3 of 5.

On the question of whether Pharaoh Hounds are aggressive, VCA describes them as social with familiar people and most dogs, accepting of strangers once introduced, and not protective, though they tend to bark when something new enters their territory. The main caution is prey drive: rabbits, cats, hamsters or guinea pigs may prompt a chase, so VCA advises against keeping such animals as pets alongside them.

Exercise and training

AKC rates the breed 4 of 5 for energy, mental enrichment and trainability. VCA notes that lure coursing comes naturally, that the breed is a speedy agility competitor, and that frequent leg-stretching runs in safe areas are needed, which makes dedicated joggers good companions. Praise, patience and provisions are described as the keys to training, with success coming from making the desired action seem like the dog's own idea.

Do Pharaoh Hounds shed? Coat and grooming

The coat is short and glossy, and UKC notes it has no feathering. AKC rates grooming frequency 2 of 5 and shedding 3 of 5. VCA describes the coat as wash and wear: brush with a soft brush or hound glove, trim nails normally, and bathe occasionally, with shedding kept to a minimum under proper care.

Pharaoh Hound lifespan

AKC gives a general life expectancy of 12-14 years for the breed.

Pharaoh Hound health screening

VCA suggests asking whether a dog's parents are OFA and CERF certified, and notes the breed can be sensitive to anesthesia and some chemicals, which is worth raising with a veterinarian.

Considering Pharaoh Hound adoption

Because the breed tends to chase small animals, an adopter with a cat or other small pets should think carefully about fit. An active household that can offer regular safe running space and mental work suits what AKC and VCA describe.