Description

The Pharaoh Hound is a graceful, athletic sighthound. The muscles are lithe, never heavy. The head is wedge-shaped and chiseled. The flat skull and muzzle are long and slim. The small eyes are amber or light brown. The ears are very large and stand erect. The nose is tan and speckled with pink. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The jaw is powerful. The neck is fairly long and slightly arched. The brisket is deep and the abdomen moderately tucked up. The whip-like tail is carried down, thick at the root, tapering to a point. The front legs are straight. Removal of the dewclaws is optional. The coat is short and glossy in red or tan, often with white markings. A white tip on the tail is preferred. A white star on the chest, white on toes and/or a thin white line down the center of the face are permitted. Any white on the back of the dog is a disqualification.

Origin

The Pharaoh Hound is one of the oldest domesticated dog breeds in the world (estimated to have originated around 4000 to 3000 B.C.) The breed's exact origin has been lost in the sands of time, but one belief is it began in Ancient Egypt, where a lithe, red, prick-eared sighthound, undeniably the close and direct ancestor of today's Pharaoh Hound, was used to hunt and chase down small game using its keen eyesight, sense of smell, and acute hearing. Through numerous Egyptian artifacts and writings, we have learned that this unique dog was treasured not only as an adept and able hunter, but also as a loyal and intelligent companion to the royal pharaohs of Ancient Egypt. For the past 2000 years, however, the Mediterranean island of Malta has been exclusively responsible for preserving and developing the breed into the Pharaoh Hound we know today. Since it has been living exclusively in the islands of Malta since time immemorial, the breed's origin is internationally recognized as Malta. The Maltese Islands are situated in the center of the Mediterranean about 50 miles south of Sicily. In Malta the hound is known as the Kelb Tal-Fenek which literally translated means "Dog of the rabbit." The main task of the Kelb Tal-Fenek is to hunt wild rabbits. Ancient Maltese farmers and hunters highly appreciated the Kelb Tal-Fenek as an outstanding rabbit hunter, and still today, many farmers and hunters in Malta take immense pride in owning the Kelb Tal-Fenek. The Kelb Tal-Fenek is both a sight hound as well as a scent hound. His way of hunting its prey is unique, together with its Mediterranean cousins- the Ibizan Hound, the Cirneco Dell Etna, the Portuguese Podengo, and the Podenco Canario. The Kelb Tal-Fenek uses its sense of smell to a marked degree (scent hound) when searching for its prey. When the prey bolts, its sight hound instincts come into play and the hound is in full flight in strong pursuit of its prey. The versatility of the breed does not, however, end here. The Kelb Tal-Fenek is a good guard dog, and also accompanies goats and sheep on their way to the pasture. The Kelb Tal-Fenek occasionally is also used as a gundog to flush and retrieve quail and woodcock. In honor of its importance and heritage, the dog was officially declared Malta's national hound in 1974. Maltese Lira coins were minted in 1977 depicting the Kelb Tal-Fenek on the reverse. During the 1960's Kelb Tal-Feneks were imported to England and to the United States. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1983.

Temperament

The Pharaoh Hound is reasonably independent and a most pleasant companion dog. It is peaceful in the house, loves to play, is calm, loyal, brave and loving. Quiet, naturally well-behaved and intelligent. This breed loves children, but treats strangers with reserve. When the dog is excited, it blushes, with his nose and ears turning a glowing deep rose. The Pharaoh Hound should not be too difficult to train. The handler needs to be understanding of the dog's character and to be consistent in approach. It can do well in competitive obedience. Socialize the Pharaoh well at an early age to avoid timidity. Generally good with other dogs, but can be rather dominant toward other male dogs. This breed is very fast and likes to chase things. A fast hunter, it should not be trusted with rabbits, cats and other small non-canine pets. Don't let this dog off the leash except in a safely contained area.

Height

Height: Dogs 23-25 inches (59-63 cm.) Bitches 21-24 inches (53-61 cm.)

Weight

Weight: 45-55 pounds (20-25 kg.)

Known Health Problems

This is a very healthy and hardy breed, but beware, the Pharaoh can be highly sensitive to insecticides and medicines.

Conditions for Living

The Pharaoh Hound will be okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard. It needs soft bedding and warmth and generally should not be expected to sleep outside except in warm climates... but it would still prefer to sleep with its family. This breed likes to chase things and should not be let off the leash unless it is in a safe area. They can go far away from you if they spy or scent wild game because they never loose their instinct to hunt alone. To prevent this you will need a secure, high fence around your yard. They can jump very high to get out of a space.

Exercise Requirments

The Pharaoh Hound relishes the opportunity to stretch its legs in a safe area - with frequent long runs. Try to set aside an hour each day to bicycle while the dog runs alongside you on a leash, although it can

Life Expectancy

About 11-14 years.

Grooming

The Pharaoh Hound needs little grooming. It is only necessary to remove dead and loose hair with a rubber brush. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. The Pharaoh Hound is a clean dog with no doggy odor. This breed is an average shedder.

Group

Southern, AKC Hound