Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound is an elegant, athletic sighthound from Malta, famous for its unique ability to blush - its nose and ears turn a deep rose colour when excited.
Personality Traits
History and Origins
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undefinedIs a Pharaoh Hound Right for You?
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Pharaoh Hounds are affectionate, playful dogs who bond closely with their families. They are gentle with children and generally sociable. They have an extremely strong prey drive and are not safe off-lead in unfenced areas. They are sensitive dogs who dislike conflict and harsh treatment. They prefer warmth and may need a coat in cold weather.
Training Tips
- Use gentle, positive methods only - they are very sensitive
- Never use harsh corrections or raised voices
- Off-lead recall is nearly impossible due to prey drive
- Socialise well but respect their sensitive nature
- Lure coursing and other sighthound sports satisfy their instincts
Temperament
Graceful, playful and affectionate. Pharaoh Hounds are intelligent dogs with a clownish sense of humour. They are gentle and loving with their families. They are the only breed known to blush when happy or excited. They are sensitive to their environment and can be affected by household tensions.
Exercise Needs
About 45-60 minutes of exercise daily with opportunities for sprinting in secure, fenced areas. They are fast and athletic but not endurance runners. They enjoy lure coursing and free running. They must always be on lead or in a fully secure area due to their prey drive.
Grooming
The short, glossy coat is extremely low-maintenance. A quick wipe with a hound glove or soft cloth once a week keeps it in good condition. They are clean dogs who rarely have a strong odour. Minimal shedding. Regular nail trimming and ear checking complete their grooming needs.
Health
Generally very healthy with few breed-specific problems. Some incidence of allergies, hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. They are sensitive to anaesthesia and some chemicals, which is important for veterinary care. They have thin skin that can tear easily. Average lifespan 11-14 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Pharaoh Hounds really blush?
Yes - they are the only breed known to blush. When happy, excited or embarassed, their nose and ears turn a distinctive deep rose or pink colour. This is visible through their thin, unpigmented skin in those areas. It is one of the most charming features of the breed.
Can Pharaoh Hounds be let off lead?
Generally no, not in unfenced areas. Their prey drive is extremely strong and they can reach speeds of 35 mph. Once in pursuit, they are unlikely to respond to recall. Exercise off-lead should only happen in fully secure, fenced areas.
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