Breed Overview

The Pharaoh Hound is a strikingly beautiful, elegant sighthound with an ancient appearance reminiscent of Egyptian tomb paintings. Despite their name, they are the national dog of Malta, not Egypt. These athletic, graceful dogs are known for their unique ability to blush — their nose and ears turn rosy pink when excited. They combine the speed and grace of a sighthound with a surprisingly playful, affectionate personality.

History & Origin

Despite the Egyptian-sounding name, the Pharaoh Hound actually developed on the island of Malta over 2,000 years ago, where they were used to hunt rabbits. Known locally as the Kelb tal-Fenek (Rabbit Dog), they have been an integral part of Maltese culture for centuries. Their resemblance to ancient Egyptian depictions of Anubis-like dogs has fuelled speculation about Egyptian origins, though modern DNA evidence suggests they are an ancient Mediterranean breed. They were recognised internationally in the 1970s and designated Malta's national dog.

Appearance

Pharaoh Hounds are medium-large, elegant dogs with clean, chiselled lines. They have a long, lean head with amber eyes, large erect ears, and a noble expression. Their short, glossy coat comes in rich tan to chestnut shades, often with a white tail tip, white chest patch, and white toes. Their body is athletic and graceful, built for speed and agility. Their most unique physical feature is their ability to blush — when excited or happy, their nose and ears flush to a rosy pink. They are breathtakingly beautiful in motion.

Temperament & Personality

Pharaoh Hounds are affectionate, playful, and surprisingly clownish for a sighthound. They are gentle and love their families deeply. They are more social and outgoing than many sighthound breeds, greeting friends with enthusiastic tail wagging and their characteristic blush. They are good with children and other dogs. They retain a strong prey drive and will chase small animals. They are alert and will bark to announce visitors. Their combination of elegance and playfulness makes them delightful companions.

Exercise & Activity Needs

Pharaoh Hounds need regular exercise — around 45 to 60 minutes daily. They love running and should have access to secure, fenced areas for off-lead sprints. They excel in lure coursing and agility. Always exercise on-lead or in fully fenced areas due to their strong chase instinct. They also enjoy walks and gentle play. They are not overly demanding of exercise but appreciate regular opportunities to run.

Training Tips

Pharaoh Hounds are intelligent and responsive, making them trainable with positive methods. They are sensitive and do not respond well to harsh corrections. Early socialisation develops their naturally friendly temperament. They can be independent thinkers, so training should be varied and interesting. Recall training is important but may not be fully reliable due to their prey drive. They respond to gentle, consistent handling.

Grooming & Care

The Pharaoh Hound's short, glossy coat is extremely low-maintenance. Weekly brushing with a soft cloth or hound glove keeps the coat gleaming. They shed minimally. Bathing is rarely needed. Regular nail trimming, dental care, and ear cleaning complete the simple routine.

Health & Common Conditions

Pharaoh Hounds are generally healthy dogs. Some conditions to be aware of include sensitivity to anaesthesia (like many sighthounds), allergies, and occasional eye conditions. They are lean dogs with low body fat, which affects medication dosing. Inform your vet of their sighthound status. Regular veterinary check-ups support their good lifespan.

Diet & Nutrition

Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for their activity level. They are lean dogs with a fast metabolism. Divide meals into two portions daily. Maintain their athletic, lean build. Fresh water should always be available.

Living Conditions

Pharaoh Hounds do best in homes with secure, high fencing. They can jump fences and will chase small animals. They are sensitive to cold due to their thin coat and may need protection in winter. They should live indoors with their family. They adapt to various living situations if exercise needs are met.

Fun Facts

• Pharaoh Hounds are the only dog breed that blushes — their nose and ears turn rosy pink when excited
• Despite the name, they are the national dog of Malta, not Egypt
• In Malta they are called Kelb tal-Fenek, meaning Rabbit Dog
• Their resemblance to ancient Egyptian hunting dogs has fascinated historians for centuries
• Pharaoh Hounds can reach speeds of up to 55 km/h

Is the Pharaoh Hound Right for You?

The Pharaoh Hound is ideal for owners who appreciate sighthound elegance with a more social, playful temperament. If you want a beautiful, affectionate, and low-maintenance companion and can provide secure fencing and regular exercise, the Pharaoh Hound is a magnificent choice.