Pharaoh Hound

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingWash & go

  The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Living spaceFlexible

  Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–14 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Patellar luxation · Hip dysplasia · Allergies

The Pharaoh Hound is Malta's ancient rabbit hunter, a sleek, elegant, smiling athlete with a charming party trick: its nose and ears 'blush' rosy pink when it is excited or happy. Alert, playful, friendly and intelligent, it is more outgoing than many sighthounds and makes an affectionate family companion, but it is also independent and sensitive, so it needs gentle, positive, patient training and does not respond to harsh methods. It has real athletic energy and a strong prey drive, needing daily exercise and the chance to run safely in an enclosed space; it cannot be trusted off-lead near small animals, and it is an accomplished jumper, so fences must be high. The short, fine coat is wonderfully easy, needing only a weekly wipe, but with little insulation it feels the cold and needs a coat in winter. Health-wise the Pharaoh Hound is one of the healthier, hardier breeds with no major breed-specific disease, but the usual care applies: buy from a reputable breeder, watch for patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, allergies and dental disease, and note its sensitivity to cold and to some anaesthetics (tell your vet). Give a Pharaoh Hound exercise, safe running, gentle training and warmth, keep up dental care, and this smiling, blushing athlete will be a devoted companion for twelve to fourteen years.

• How much exercise does a Pharaoh Hound need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Pharaoh Hound need?

  Wash & go. The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Is a Pharaoh Hound suited to apartment living?

  Flexible. Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Is a Pharaoh Hound a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Pharaoh Hound live?

  12–14 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Pharaoh Hound?

  Keep an eye out for Patellar luxation, Hip dysplasia, Allergies. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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