About Pharaoh Hounds

The Pharaoh Hound ......

The Pharaoh hound is one of the oldest domesticated dog breeds in the world (estimated to have originated around 4000 to 3000 B.C.)  As the name implies, the origin of the Pharaoh hound began in Ancient Egypt.  They were used to hunt and  chase down small game using their 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.  Additionally, one of the Ancient Egyptians' main gods, Anubis, God of the Dead and Embalming, was believed to have been a Pharaoh hound.

It is believed that Phoenician traders carried this sacred hound to the Mediterranean islands of Malta and Gozo.  Once on the islands, the breed was isolated from the rest of the world for nearly 2000 years.  During this time, the Maltese worked hard to develop the breed into the keen hunter he is today while preserving a true breed type.  Not surprisingly, the breed was declared the national dog of Malta, where it was, and still is known as the "Kelb tal-Fenek," which means 'rabbit dog'. The breed to this day is used extensively in Malta for hunting rabbits and working closely with shepherds tending their flocks.  Had it not been for the devoted efforts of the Maltese, the breed probably would not have survived in the pure, unchanged form in which it is seen today.
 

Pharaoh hounds were first imported to Europe in the 1930's.  They arrived in the U.S in 1967.  They were accepted into the AKC's Miscellaneous Class in 1973 and into the Hound Group in 1984. Australia's first Pharaoh Hounds arrived in the 70's first imported by Barbara Marsh of Victoria. The breed is still considered to be one of the best-kept secrets of the dog world; they are slowly but surely gaining popularity.  The Pharaoh hound is almost unchanged from their ancient beginnings, and it is the goal of modern breeders to keep it that way. Their striking colour and noble appearance sets them apart from many other breeds, a very intelligent, caring and gentle breed, they are happy to be a part of the family and are very gentle with the smallest of children, known as the clown of hounds, this breed will keep you amused with their self made games for hours on end. 

 
  The Pharaoh Hound's appearance is indeed unique and striking.  This is a medium-sized breed, ranging from 21-25 inches at the withers and weighing between 40 and 60 pounds on average, males being larger than females. 

 Conformation wise, the Pharaoh Hound is a moderate breed in almost every way - moderate size, moderate and balanced angulations, and  moderate boned.  At first glance, the breed should exude a look of elegance, speed, and power all at the same time, although not be fine and over refined, they are after all a hunting dog, and in their native country of Malta need substance and stamina to assist them in the rough terrain.  The breed should have an intelligent and alert expression, and carry itself with an air of grace.  The Pharaoh's coat is short, tight, and sleek, which makes it a minimal shedder.  Pharaohs come in various shades of red, ranging from a very light reddened-tan to a rich, deep chestnut, although most fall somewhere in between these two extremes.  The eyes, nose, lips, pads, toenails, and whiskers should all match the colour of the coat.  Most Pharaohs have at least a few white markings on them.  The following white markings are allowed by the standard: a "star" on the chest, a bit on the toes, a small white snip on the centerline of the face, and on the tip of the tail, although these markings are "allowed" they are definitely not essential, many judges tend to look for a white tail tip and star on the chest, the tail tip is desired according to some standards, but the overall picture when examining the pharaoh should be taken into account, not the lack of any white, the balance and type must be maintained, so the old phrase "Less Is Best" comes into play regarding white markings.  When trotting naturally, they should appear to "float" along, covering a lot of ground quickly yet effortlessly.  Some other distinguishing characteristics of the breed are, of course, the large upright ears, the long whip-like tail, the powerful and well-arched neck, and the strong jaws filled with a set of large teeth.  Additionally, the breed smiles and "blushes" one of the only breeds that has this attribute of emotion.  When they are excited, embarrassed, happy or sometimes even when they're dreaming, the nose leather, eye rims, and inside of the ears turns a deep rosy colour, a truly remarkable breed, Elegant-Athletic-Aesthetically Appealing.   

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