Image Source: AI Image Generator

Dog Breed

Pharaoh Hound

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Pharaoh Hound

Origin: Malta

Breed Group: Hound

Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium

Height: Male: 23–25 inches (58–64 cm), Female: 21–24 inches (53–61 cm)

Weight: Male: 45–55 lbs (20–25 kg), Female: 40–50 lbs (18–23 kg)

Coat Type: Short, fine, and glossy

Coat Colors: Rich tan or chestnut with white markings on tail tip, toes, and chest

Grooming Needs: Low (occasional brushing)

Shedding: Low to Moderate

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, athletic, playful, sensitive

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–14 years

Common Health Issues: Generally healthy; sensitive to cold and anesthesia

Care

Nutrition Needs: Balanced, high-quality diet for active breeds

Exercise Needs: High – daily exercise, off-leash running in safe areas, and mental stimulation

Space Requirements: Adaptable; needs space to run—best with a yard or access to open areas

Noise Sensitivity: Low to Moderate (can be alert but not overly barky)

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Intelligent and responsive, but sensitive—thrives on gentle, positive training methods

Good with Children: Yes, typically sociable

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, typically sociable

Good with Other Pets: No, strong prey drive may make them unreliable with small animals

Training: Intelligent and responsive, but sensitive—thrives on gentle, positive training methods

Description

The Pharaoh Hound is an ancient and elegant sighthound, believed to trace back to the dogs of ancient Egypt and used historically in Malta for rabbit hunting. Known for their graceful build, amber eyes, and ability to “blush” (nose and ears turn pink when excited), these dogs are friendly, affectionate, and full of playful energy.

Their short, smooth coat is low-shedding and easy to maintain, needing only occasional brushing. Pharaoh Hounds are very intelligent, but also independent and sensitive, so they respond best to gentle, reward-based training. They need daily exercise and space to run, along with mental challenges to stay happy.

AI Image Generator

History

Origin: The Pharaoh Hound is widely regarded as one of the oldest domesticated dog breeds, with roots tracing back to ancient Egypt. Sculptures and friezes from Egyptian tombs dating as far back as 4400 B.C. depict sleek, reddish dogs bearing a striking resemblance to the modern Pharaoh Hound. While the breed’s ancestors likely roamed alongside pharaohs along the Nile, it is believed that Phoenician traders transported these hounds from Egypt to the Mediterranean islands of Malta and Gozo over 2,000 years ago. There, the breed survived in relative isolation, maintaining its ancient form and function.
Development: On Malta, the Pharaoh Hound—known locally as "Kelb tal-Fenek" (Rabbit Dog)—became an essential hunting companion, especially valued for its ability to pursue and corner rabbits across the island’s rocky terrain. The breed developed a unique hunting method: teams of dogs would chase rabbits into stone-walled fields and dens, after which ferrets were used to flush the prey while the hounds waited to capture it. The Pharaoh Hound’s keen eyesight, acute hearing, and stamina made it highly effective for this role. The breed also developed the unusual ability to "blush," with its nose and ears turning rosy pink when excited—a trait attributed to the absence of black skin pigment.
Recognition: The Pharaoh Hound remained largely unknown outside Malta until the 1960s, when it was introduced to the United Kingdom by Pauline Black, and shortly thereafter to the United States in 1967. The breed’s name was changed from Kelb tal-Fenek to Pharaoh Hound upon its arrival in England. The American Kennel Club (AKC) admitted the breed to its Miscellaneous Class in 1979 and granted full recognition in 1984, allowing the Pharaoh Hound to compete in the Hound Group. The breed is also recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and is Malta’s national dog, commemorated on a national coin and celebrated as a cultural icon.
Today, the Pharaoh Hound is cherished both in Malta and internationally for its elegance, intelligence, and affectionate temperament. While still used for traditional rabbit hunting in Malta, the breed is more commonly seen as a companion and show dog worldwide. Its striking appearance—sleek, athletic build, amber eyes, and expressive "smile"—and unique ability to blush make it a favorite among sighthound enthusiasts. The breed’s ancient heritage, combined with its friendly and playful disposition, ensures its continued popularity as both a family companion and a living link to the distant past.

Ideal Owner

Active individuals or families who can provide regular exercise and companionship

Similar Breeds

Ibizan Hound, Basenji, Saluki, Greyhound