An Introduction to the Pharaoh Hound

Pharaoh Hound Breed: Details, Photos, Tips for Care, and More.

Originating from the beautiful Maltese islands, the graceful Pharaoh Hound has a rich history dating back to 4000 BC, making it one of the oldest known dog breeds. Initially bred for hunting rabbits in rugged terrain, these medium-sized dogs are not only intelligent and easy to train, but also highly sociable and energetic. Their lineage and rarity are evident in the numerous Egyptian artefacts showcasing their unique breed.

Breed Overview

Dogfix Icon Height

Height

21-25 inches

Weight

45-55 pounds

Lifespan

12-14 years

Colors

Red, Tan, Chestnut, Rich Tan

Suitable for

Active individuals and families looking for a loyal and energetic companion

Temperament

Intelligent, Playful, Affectionate, Alert, Athletic

Dogfix Icon Height

Height

21-25 inches

Weight

45-55 pounds

Lifespan

12-14 years

Colors

Red, Tan, Chestnut, Rich Tan

Suitable for

Active individuals and families looking for a loyal and energetic companion

Temperament

Intelligent, Playful, Affectionate, Alert, Athletic

The regal Pharaoh Hound can trace its roots back to ancient Egypt, where it was a favored companion of royalty around 5,000 years ago. Eventually, these majestic canines made their way to Malta and quickly became – and remain – the nation’s official dog. With their poised demeanor and gentle nature, it’s no wonder that they capture the hearts of dog enthusiasts everywhere.

Characteristics

Energy

8-10 Rating

Health

7-10 Rating

Sociability

9-10 Rating

Trainability

7-10 Rating

Lifespan

10-10 Rating

Health Conditions

The Pharaoh Hound is typically a healthy and resilient breed, enjoying a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Well-suited for families and various climates, these unique dogs are not commonly afflicted by genetic ailments. However, they may be sensitive to certain medications and chemicals, so care must be taken to ensure their well-being.

Minor Conditions

  • Allergies
  • Skin Infections
  • Ear Infections
  • Dental Issues
  • Eye Problems

Serious Conditions

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Degenerative Myelopathy
  • Autoimmune Disorders
  • Anesthesia Sensitivity
An Introduction to the Pharaoh Hound
A Comprehensive Overview of the Pharaoh Hound Breed
Key Characteristics of Pharaoh Hounds

Selecting a Pharaoh Hound Puppy: What to Consider

As a rare breed, the Pharaoh Hound can be quite challenging to find. If you’re considering acquiring one from a breeder outside of Malta, be prepared to potentially pay a significant amount, depending on the breeder and the color variation. Although it’s not common to come across a Pharaoh Hound available for adoption, it’s worth inquiring about. Before resorting to a breeder, make sure to check your local dog shelters to see if this unique breed is up for adoption. Known for their playful and sociable nature, Pharaoh Hounds adore being around their owners and eagerly seek playtime. While they generally get along well with other dogs, exercise caution when introducing them to cats or smaller animals due to their strong hunting instincts.

Selecting a Pharaoh Hound Puppy What to Consider

The Personality and Intelligence of a Pharaoh Hound

Is a Pharaoh Hound a Good Fit for Families?

The Pharaoh Hound is an excellent choice for energetic families who can provide this dog breed with ample opportunities for walks, hikes, and a stimulating environment, such as a spacious garden. These dogs are well-suited for families with older children, as they tend to be non-aggressive, particularly when they have been exposed to youngsters from an early age. Pharaoh Hounds are known for being highly trainable, sociable, affectionate, loyal, and playful, making them a joy to own and care for. They have a strong desire to please their owners and thrive on regular interaction and playtime. With an admirable temperament and a distinctive appearance, the Pharaoh Hound is invariably a wonderful addition to any family.

Is a Pharaoh Hound a Good Fit for Families

How Well Do Pharaoh Hounds Coexist with Other Pets?

Their easy nature and instincts to be social mean they will generally get along well with other Pharaoh Hounds and some other breeds of dog. Do just be aware that their ancient lineage as hunters might mean that, if not socialised properly when young, they may occasionally chase or harass some smaller pets, such as cats or rabbits. Generally, however, they are fine dogs to have in a mixed-pet home.

How Well Do Pharaoh Hounds Coexist with Other Pets

Important Factors to Consider When Owning a Pharaoh Hound

Meeting the Dietary Needs of Your Pharaoh Hound

Pharaoh Hounds have a tendency to gain weight, so it’s crucial to provide them with a well-rounded diet containing biologically suitable proteins and fats to maintain their health and keep them within an ideal weight range. Focus on feeding them high-quality foods that are free of artificial ingredients and preservatives. Since these dogs are known for their playful and energetic nature, they may require up to three meals a day to meet their caloric and nutritional needs. However, if your Pharaoh Hound is older and less active, you can reduce their feeding to twice daily, preferably in the morning and evening.

This breed can thrive on a raw diet that includes a mix of animal and vegetable-based proteins, along with essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Make sure the food you provide is endorsed by a veterinarian and comes from a trustworthy source. You have the option to prepare their meals at home with guidance from a canine nutritionist or choose a high-quality commercial food with minimal fillers.

Meeting the Dietary Needs of Your Pharaoh Hound

Ensuring Proper Exercise for Your Pharaoh Hound

Pharaoh Hounds need a daily dose of at least 30 minutes of exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their physical and mental well-being. If you have a demanding schedule or live in a small space, make sure you can still meet their activity needs. These dogs love spending time outdoors and exploring their surroundings, often running laps around the yard to let off steam. Taking your Pharaoh Hound for regular walks in the cooler morning or evening hours is highly recommended. As a naturally curious breed, they crave mental engagement to prevent boredom.

Keep their minds sharp with interactive dog toys, chew items, and playthings that allow you to engage with your hound. Games of fetch are particularly enjoyable for them, and their excitement during playtime is unmistakable. Neglecting your Pharaoh Hound’s exercise requirements may result in obesity, behavioral issues, or an unhappy, disinterested pet. It’s so important to avoid this, for the sake of your pet’s wellbeing and quality of life.

Ensuring Proper Exercise for Your Pharaoh Hound

Essential Training Tips for Pharaoh Hounds

Pharaoh Hounds are known for their high intelligence, loyalty, and eagerness to please, which makes training them pretty straightforward. Whether you’re teaching basic commands like sit, stay, and rollover, or advancing to potty training and competitive obstacle courses, these dogs are quick learners. To help them grasp new behaviors even faster, consider using healthy treats as a form of positive reinforcement during training sessions. Their keen intellect allows them to quickly associate the reward with the specific task at hand. Starting your training journey with a Pharaoh Hound puppy is generally easier than with an older dog, as their ability to retain and exhibit learned behaviors is more prominent when ingrained at a young age.

Essential Training Tips for Pharaoh Hounds

Grooming Your Pharaoh Hound: What You Need to Know

While the Pharaoh Hound isn’t a hypoallergenic breed, it does shed far less in comparison to several other dog breeds. Still, these dogs do shed, but by brushing them weekly, you can effectively minimize excessive fur loss and eliminate dander and hair that may accumulate in your home. Every couple of months, it’s a good idea to visit a grooming salon for a bath and nail trim, which is essential for maintaining their appearance and removing any dirt and oils that could gather on their fur. In general, the grooming needs of a Pharaoh Hound are quite simple and manageable, given that their fur is short and free from tangles or knots.

Grooming Your Pharaoh Hound What You Need to Know
Health and Medical Issues Common in Pharaoh Hounds

Comparing Male and Female Pharaoh Hounds

In comparison to their male counterparts, female Pharaoh Hounds have a slightly more rounded appearance, with shorter legs and necks. A female Pharaoh Hound’s nipples will be more prominent and will be a more robust color. Their pigmentation on their undercarriage will also be more striking. Despite these physical differences, females possess the same intelligence and temperament as males. As with most breeds, a female Pharaoh Hound is a tad smaller, but only by an inch or two. They will typically be around 20-23 inches tall, and a female Pharaoh Hound will usually weigh in somewhere around 40 lbs.

Male Pharaoh Hounds are more notably lithe and athletic, characterized by elongated legs and sleek necks. Males tend to be a bit larger, with an average weight of 50 pounds and a height ranging from 23 to 25 inches, making them taller than females. Regardless of these differences, both genders exhibit the qualities of nature and personality that make the Pharaoh Hound such a special breed.

Comparing Male and Female Pharaoh Hounds

An Interesting Fact About the Pharaoh Hound Breed

These Hounds are recognized as occupying the 37th position in terms of canine intelligence rankings. Given the number of dog breeds out there, this is a high ranking. This fascinating breed is therefore not only attractive but also highly intelligent, making it a delightful and smart companion for all of us who love dogs.

An Interesting Fact About the Pharaoh Hound Breed
Another Intriguing Detail About Pharaoh Hounds
Discovering More About the Unique Pharaoh Hound

Concluding Thoughts on the Pharaoh Hound Breed

If the Pharaoh Hound is a breed you’re considering, make sure you have the time, energy, and appropriate home environment (no tiny pets, very young kids, or cramped living spaces). As a potential owner, you must be prepared to meet their high activity demands and offer ample mental stimulation to ensure their well-being. Be aware that extra time during the day might be necessary to fulfill these needs. All things considered, the Pharaoh Hound is a genuinely captivating breed, boasting a rich history, distinctive looks, and an endearing temperament.

Concluding Thoughts on the Pharaoh Hound Breed
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