Pharaoh Hound

The Pharaoh Hound, known in its Maltese homeland as the Kelb tal-Fenek (dog of the rabbit), is the national dog of Malta and one of the most ancient and genetically distinct of all recognised dog breeds, a sleek and elegant Mediterranean sighthound whose ancestors are believed to have been brought to Malta by Phoenician traders some two to three thousand years ago and have been bred in relative isolation on the Maltese islands ever since. For many years the breed was popularly associated with the hunting dogs depicted in ancient Egyptian art, and this association gave rise to the Pharaoh Hound name - however, modern DNA analysis has established that the breed is a distinct ancient type with a lineage that diverged early from mainland dog populations rather than a direct descendant of Egyptian dogs as once believed. The breed was registered by the Kennel Club in the Hound Group, where it is one of the more unusual and least common entries.

The Pharaoh Hound is a medium-sized, fine-boned and elegantly proportioned sighthound of striking appearance. The coat is short, glossy and hard, coming in rich tan or chestnut with white markings, particularly a white-tipped tail that is a breed characteristic. The amber eyes are bright and the expression is alert and intelligent. The large, mobile ears are characteristic. The breed is uniquely noted for its blushing response - when excited or happy, the nose and insides of the ears flush a deep rose-pink colour, visible through the short pale coat. This blushing is unique to the Pharaoh Hound among recognised breeds. Adults typically stand 53 to 63 centimetres at the shoulder and weigh 18 to 27 kilograms.

The character is warm, affectionate and playful to a degree that surprises those expecting the aloofness sometimes associated with ancient sighthound breeds. The Pharaoh Hound is sociable with people it knows, genuinely engaged and demonstratively affectionate, and has a playful, almost clownish quality in its own home. It is athletic and graceful in movement, somewhat cat-like in its self-possession, and deeply devoted to its household.

The prey drive is strong and should not be underestimated. The breed was developed for rabbit hunting on rocky terrain and the chase response is powerful. Secure fencing of at least 1.8 metres is essential, and off-lead exercise should only take place in fully enclosed areas. Cohabitation with cats and small animals requires careful management from an early age and cannot always be safely achieved.

Training responds to positive, gentle reinforcement. The Pharaoh Hound is sensitive and does not respond well to harsh methods. Recall requires dedicated training given the prey drive.

The breed is generally considered healthy for an ancient type. Hip Dysplasia has been documented but the overall health profile is less burdened with hereditary conditions than many more recently developed breeds. Sighthound-specific anaesthetic sensitivity should be communicated to any veterinary practice.

Purchase prices from KC-registered breeders range from £1,200 to £2,500. Monthly running costs average £80 to £140. The Pharaoh Hound Club of Great Britain is the primary resource for breed information, health monitoring, responsible breeders and rescue contact.

Affectionate, playful and sociable with a warm and engaging character unusual in a primitive sighthound. Good with people and generally sociable with other sighthounds. The distinctive blushing response - the nose and ears flush a deep rose colour when excited or happy - is unique to the breed. Strong prey drive toward small animals. Graceful, athletic and somewhat cat-like in its movements and self-possession.

Intelligent and responsive but with the sighthound's characteristic independence and sensitivity. Responds well to gentle, positive reinforcement. Does not respond to harsh or punitive methods - the breed is sensitive and will shut down. Recall must be thoroughly trained given the prey drive. Early socialisation is important and generally straightforward given the naturally sociable character.

Needs at least 60 minutes of vigorous daily exercise including off-lead running in a safely enclosed area. The breed was developed for coursing and has the speed, agility and endurance of a working sighthound. Secure fencing of at least 1.8 metres is essential given the combination of speed, prey drive and jumping ability.

Generally considered a healthy and robust primitive breed with fewer inherited conditions than many more recently developed breeds. Hip Dysplasia has been documented. The lean build and low body fat mean sensitivity to anaesthesia and cold are practical management considerations. The Pharaoh Hound Club of Great Britain maintains health monitoring for the breed.

Feed a high-quality complete food appropriate for a lean, athletic medium breed. Sighthounds have low body fat and can be sensitive to certain anaesthetic agents - vets should be advised before any procedure. Monitor weight carefully - the lean sighthound build means even modest excess weight is immediately apparent and problematic.

The short, fine, glossy coat is minimal maintenance - a weekly wipe-down or brief brush is all that is required. The coat provides minimal insulation and the breed should not be kept in cold or damp conditions without appropriate shelter. Nails require regular trimming.

Purchase price from a KC-registered breeder: £1,200 to £2,500. The breed is relatively rare in the UK. Monthly running costs: £80 to £140.

Suits active owners who understand sighthound character and can provide a safely fenced environment. Good with people and generally gentle in the home. Strong prey drive makes cohabitation with cats and small animals problematic without careful management. Needs access to safe space for off-lead running.