Breed History:

The Pharaoh Hound is one of the oldest known domesticated dog breeds, with origins tracing back over 5,000 years to ancient Egypt. Dogs resembling Pharaoh Hounds appear in Egyptian art, hieroglyphs, and sculptures, often depicted hunting alongside pharaohs and nobility. Despite its Egyptian roots, the modern Pharaoh Hound was preserved and developed in Malta, where it is known as the Kelb tal-Fenek, meaning “Rabbit Dog,” due to its role in hunting rabbits across rocky terrain.

The breed was introduced to the rest of Europe in the 20th century and gained recognition for its elegance, intelligence, and remarkable speed. It is now Malta’s national dog and symbol of cultural heritage.

If you want to learn about other sighthound breeds, check out our page "Different Sighthound Dog Breeds".

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 11–14 years

Breed Appearance:

The Pharaoh Hound is a lean, elegant, and athletic dog with a graceful, well-balanced build.

The breed commonly features:

• Long, wedge-shaped head
• Strong, tapering muzzle
• Amber oval-shaped eyes
• Large, erect ears
• Deep chest
• Long, graceful neck
• Long, slender limbs
• Long, tapering tail

Its coat is short, smooth, glossy, and close-fitting.

Common coat colours include:

• Rich tan
• Chestnut tan

White markings commonly appear on the chest, toes, tail tip, and occasionally as a narrow blaze on the face.

The breed's sleek physique and alert expression reflect its heritage as a swift and agile hunting dog.

Breed Type – Sighthound:

The Pharaoh Hound is an intelligent, energetic, and independent hunting breed.

It is known for being:

• Loyal and devoted
• Intelligent
• Playful
• Alert
• Gentle
• Affectionate with family

The breed forms close bonds with its family while remaining friendly but somewhat reserved around unfamiliar people.

Training:

The Pharaoh Hound is intelligent and eager to learn but may occasionally display an independent streak.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation
• Positive reinforcement methods
• Basic obedience training
• Reliable recall in secure areas
• Controlled exposure to people and environments
• Consistent, patient leadership

The breed excels in:

• Lure coursing
• Agility
• Hunting
• Obedience
• Companion activities

Short, engaging training sessions help maintain motivation and encourage positive behaviour.

Health & Care:

The Pharaoh Hound is generally a healthy breed but may be prone to several health concerns, including:

• Hip dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism
• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
• Sensitivity to anaesthesia
• Patellar luxation
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

Living Conditions:

The Pharaoh Hound thrives in active homes where it receives regular exercise and family interaction.

Ideal environments include:

• Houses with secure yards
• Active families
• Rural or suburban homes
• Experienced dog owners

The breed prefers living indoors with its family and is sensitive to cold weather because of its short coat.

Exercise:

The Pharaoh Hound has high exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks
• Running in securely fenced areas
• Lure coursing
• Hiking
• Interactive play
• Mental enrichment activities

Because of its strong prey drive, the breed should only be allowed off leash in securely enclosed areas.

Grooming:

The short coat requires minimal maintenance.

• Brushing once per week
• Occasional bathing
• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming
• Regular dental care

The breed sheds lightly throughout the year.

Advantages:

• Elegant, athletic appearance with ancient heritage

• Intelligent, loyal, and affectionate with its family

• Minimal grooming needs and low doggy odour

• Playful, sociable, and good with respectful children

• Generally healthy with few genetic problems

• Excellent watchdog without being aggressive

Disadvantages:

• Strong prey drive; not suitable for homes with small pets

• Needs daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom

• Can be independent and occasionally stubborn

• Not ideal for first-time dog owners without proper research

• Sensitive to cold due to low body fat and short coat

• May be aloof with strangers or overly shy if not socialised early