Breed Description

Also named the Kelb tal-Fenek, the Pharaoh Hound is a hound that is among the oldest domesticated breed in history. They typically weigh around 45-55 pounds, and stands 21-25 inches tall.

Coat

The Pharaoh Hound has thin and fine coat. Their coats are smooth and soft to touch with a healthy gloss almost iridescent in sunlight. This breed always appears reddish tan in color, although some markings are permissible by the breed standards.

Activity

The elegant and athletic Pharaoh Hound requires a great deal of exercise. Their great speed with a powerful instinct to hunt makes them ideal for active dog owners. Daily walks are a great way to exercise your breed. But running will be best for this breed to spend their energy, especially with small-game hunter games. This breed has a thin coat, and is therefore sensitive to cold climates. They should therefore be never left outdoors for long in cold weather.

Temperament

The lean and agile Pharaoh Hound is affectionate, loyal, and alert that loves playing with children. This breed is generally aloof around strangers, yet never shy nor aggressive. This calm breed doesn't bark that much, and are easy to train. This breed should be socialized as early as possible to make sure their natural personality flourishes. This breed generally gets along well with other dogs if properly socialized. But since they have strong instinct to chase, they should be the only canine in the household.

Overview

The Pharaoh Hound is a sight hound that belongs to the pariah group. Being the national dog of Malta, this breed has been locally called Kelb tal-Fenek which means rabbit hound.

Care

This short coated breed is easy to groom. Basically, the Pharaoh Hound only requires a weekly rub with a rough cloth, oftentimes called a hound cloth. They won't even need that much combing. However, they do enjoy being rubbed with a brush, and massaged to remove dead hair monthly. This breed should be trimmed properly, and should never be done quickly. Often, these dogs are brought to the groomer or vet for a professional treatment.

Training

An independent-minded by trainable Pharaoh Hound requires positive training methods. This breed is sensitive, and will respond poorly when physical punishment is used. Training should start while they are young to get the best out of this hound. This breed can be stubborn, but it is important to always use positive reinforcement, rewarding their good deeds and ignoring the bad ones. Remember, this breed has been developed to take care of himself, so he tends to operate on his own. Being firm but gentle will make training easier for Pharaoh Hounds.

Character

The Pharaoh Hound is an alert and keen hunter. They hunt using their sense of scent and sight. This breed's character is generally friendly, affectionate, playful, and intelligent.