Pharaoh Hound: Personality, Health, Grooming

Group: Southern, AKC Hound.

AKC Ranking: 141

Also Known As: Kelb Tal-Fenek

About Pharaoh Hound

Origin The first two specimens of the breed were brought to Britain in the 1920s, but at that time, no litter was bred. Again, some dogs were imported to the UK in the early 1960s, and the first litter was born in 1963. Description The Pharaoh Hound is a graceful, lithe, athletic sighthound. The head is wedge-shaped and chiseled. The flat skull and muzzle are long and slim. The small eyes are amber or light brown. The ears are very large and stand erect. The nose is tan and speckled with pink. The brisket is deep and the abdomen moderately tucked up. The whip-like tail with a white tip is carried down, thick at the root, tapering to a point. The front legs are straight.

Coat

The coat is short and glossy in red or tan, often with white markings. A white star on the chest, white on toes and/or a thin white line down the center of the face are permitted.

Height

Dogs 23-25 inches (59-63 cm.)
Bitches 21-24 inches (53-61 cm.)

Weight

Male Pharaoh Hounds weigh 50-55 lbs.
Females weigh 45-50 lbs.

Temperament of the Breed

The Pharaoh Hound is reasonably independent, peaceful, playful, loyal, brave, intelliegent, quiet, well-behaved and a most pleasant companion dog. This breed loves children, but treats strangers with reserve, dominant toward other male dogs and should not be trusted with rabbits, cats and other small non-canine pets. When the dog is excited, it blushes, with his nose and ears turning a glowing deep rose. This breed is very fast and likes to chase things.

Living Condition

The Pharaoh Hound will be okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large, high-fenced yard. It needs soft bedding and warmth and generally should not be expected to sleep outside except in warm climates. It would prefer to sleep with its family.

Exercise & Training

It would enjoy brisk, long walks, running alongside on a leash while the owner bicycles and occasional sprints. Training should always be consistent and gentle as this breed can be very sensitive to a harsh voice. Prone to timidity, the trainer must be well experienced with this breed so they're not to frighten him. The Pharaoh Hound is rather intelligent and can do well in obedience. It should be socialized at an early age to avoid timidity.

Grooming

It is only necessary to remove dead and loose hair of this average hedder with a rubber brush. It should be bathed or dry shampooed only when necessary. The Pharaoh Hound is a clean dog with no doggy odor.

Health Issues

This is a very healthy and hardy breed, but can be highly sensitive to insecticides and medicines. They are sensitive to barbiturate anaesthetics. Their ears are thin and prone to frostbite when in cold climates.

Life Expectancy: 11-14 years.

Breed Club: www.ph-club.org/

Rescue Link: www.ph-club.org/rescue.htm