Origin
Malta
Lifespan
12–14 years
Weight
18–25 kg
Height
53–63 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Tan · Rich Tan · Chestnut
Pharaoh Hound
About This Breed
The Pharaoh Hound is Malta's national dog, an elegant and athletic sighthound known for its ability to blush—its nose and ears turn rosy when excited. One of the oldest domesticated breeds, they are graceful and playful companions.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Pharaoh Hound
Origin
| Origin | Malta |
| Group | Hounds |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 18–25 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years |
| Height | 53–63 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Tan · Rich Tan · Chestnut |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Intelligent · Active · Friendly · Playful |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Usually needs relatively little coat care. Brush as needed for its coat and shedding.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Teach children to handle it gently and leave it alone when it rests.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Pharaoh Hound is a unique dog breed with a regal appearance reminiscent of ancient Egypt. Elegant and graceful, this breed holds a mystic allure not only for the resemblance to the Egyptian god Anubis, but for the dogs’ unique ability to blush when excited. The Pharaoh Hound is believed to have roots dating back to 4400 BCE Egypt, according to the Pharaoh Hound Club of America (PHCA), before being further developed in Malta. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1983.
Care Guide
Resembling other sight hounds with a slim build, the Pharaoh Hound is a medium-sized dog that stands 21–25 inches tall and weighs 45–55 pounds. They have a statuesque presence that’s hard to overlook, with large ears, a slender muzzle, and long legs. Their coat is short and comes in shades of tan, chestnut, or golden-red. The Pharaoh Hound’s temperament is friendly and sociable, making them great family dogs. They’re playful and have an energetic nature that calls for regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Grooming them is relatively easy due to their short and smooth coat.