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Pharaoh Hound
Weight
20
- 25
kg
Length
Male
58
- 64
cm
Female
53
- 61
cm
Average lifespan
12
- 14
Years
About the Breed
The Pharaoh Hound, often called the ancient “Blushing Dog” of Malta, is an elegant yet resilient sighthound developed to chase small game across harsh, rocky terrain. Swift, determined, and keen on scent, these hounds combine athletic performance in the field with a gentle, affectionate nature at home.
Built for speed, Pharaoh Hounds are sleek, aerodynamic coursing dogs designed for high-speed pursuit. Distinctive features include a smooth tan coat that matches the pigmentation of the nose, ears, and eye rims; striking amber eyes; a white-tipped tail; and the charming ability to “smile.” Most famously, the breed can blush when happy or excited, with the ears and face taking on a rosy glow—an endearing trait admired since ancient times. Graceful and fast-moving, these hounds embody the speed and elegance of coursing dogs descended from their Bronze Age ancestors.
Built for speed, Pharaoh Hounds are sleek, aerodynamic coursing dogs designed for high-speed pursuit. Distinctive features include a smooth tan coat that matches the pigmentation of the nose, ears, and eye rims; striking amber eyes; a white-tipped tail; and the charming ability to “smile.” Most famously, the breed can blush when happy or excited, with the ears and face taking on a rosy glow—an endearing trait admired since ancient times. Graceful and fast-moving, these hounds embody the speed and elegance of coursing dogs descended from their Bronze Age ancestors.
Breed Traits
Affectionate with Family
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
How affectionate the breed is with family and familiar people; some are reserved except with their owner, while others are friendly with everyone they know.
Good with Young Children
Not Recommended
Good With Children
How patient the breed is with children and how family-friendly it is overall; always supervise around young kids or those unfamiliar with dogs.
Good with Other Dogs
Not Recommended
Good With Other Dogs
How friendly the breed is toward other dogs; while supervision is always needed, some breeds are naturally more comfortable around dogs at home and in public.
Shedding Level
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
How much shedding the breed typically has; heavier shedders need more brushing, may trigger allergies more, and require frequent cleaning to remove fur.
Coat Grooming Frequency
Monthly
Daily
How often the breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other coat care; consider your time, patience, and budget, and note that all breeds need regular nail trimming.
Drooling Level
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
How prone the breed is to drooling; if you prefer cleanliness, breeds that leave noticeable slobber may not be a good fit.
Coat Type
Coat Length
Trainability Level
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
How trainable the breed is and how willing it is to learn; some aim to please their owners, while others are more strong-willed and prefer doing things their own way.
Energy Level
Couch Potato
High Energy
How much exercise and mental activity the breed needs; high-energy breeds stay active all day, while low-energy breeds are happy to relax and sleep.
Barking Level
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
How often the breed makes sounds like barking or howling; some are very vocal, others only in certain situations, and even quiet breeds may communicate in other ways.
Mental Stimulation Needs
Happy to Lounge
Needs a Job or Activity
How much mental stimulation the breed needs; working breeds often need challenges to stay engaged, or they may create their own (often unwanted) entertainment.
📚 Sources & references
The breed standard information is based on reliable references, with the content rephrased to suit the reader.
-
American Kennel Club (AKC)
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pharaoh-hound/ -
Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pharaoh_Hound
🎯
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Openness to Strangers
Playfulness Level
Protective Nature / Watchdog
Adaptability Level