Pharaoh Hound Dog Breed Profile

by Luke Blaise

AKC Group: Hound Group

The Pharaoh Hound dog is a very elegant breed with large pointy ears. While some believe it is from Egypt, the connection is not clear. The official dog of Malta, it is normally tan in color.

History

Believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds. The Pharaoh Hound dog dates back to ancient Egypt, 3,000 B.C. The dog is believed to have been delivered from Egypt by Phoenicians right after they settled on the Mediterranean islands of Gozo and Malta. They're bred for hunting rabbit and are the official dog of Malta.

Physical Features

The Pharaoh Hound dog is medium sized, with clean-cut lines. Height ranges from 23 to 25 inches. Females from 21 to 24 inches. They normally weigh between 40 to 60 pounds.

The coat is glossy and short. Normal colors are tan, chestnut, with some white markings allowed on the tail, chest, and face.

Personality

The Pharaoh hound feels self-sufficient and a nice companion. It is quiet at home and likes to play outside the house. They'll be calm as long as they receive adequate workouts. Brave, loving and loyal, this calm dog is normally intelligent and well-behaved. They love kids, but they are cautious with strangers.

One unique characteristic of this dog is that they blush when excited. Their nose and ears turn to a darker red.

A fast hunter, it shouldn't be left alone with cats, guinea pigs, pet mice, or other little animals.

Common Health Problems

The Pharaoh Hound dog is a very hardy and healthy breed, but be careful; the Pharaoh could be extremely sensitive to medicines and insecticides.

Return to: Complete AKC Dog Breed List

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