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Pharaoh Hound Breed Description

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Breed Organization

Pharaoh Hound Club of America

Native Country
Malta

Other Names
Kelb Tal-Fenek, Rabbit Dog, Pharaoh

Life Expectancy
Approximately 11-14 Years

Litter Size
Average 6-8 Puppies

Breed Group
AKC Hound

General Description

The Pharaoh Hound is a tall, slender, athletic sighthound. The length of the body is slightly longer than it is tall. The neck is long and lean, slightly arched. The head is wedge-shaped and chiseled. The muzzle is slightly longer than the flat skull and has a slight stop. The nose is almost the same color as the coat. The teeth meet in a scissors bite. The small, oval eyes are moderately deep set, and amber in color. The large ears are medium-high-set, erect and are broad at the base. The long, whip-like tail is medium set, thicker at the base and tapering. The front legs are straight. Dewclaws are sometimes removed. The short, glossy, fine to close coat comes in red or tan, often with white markings.


Breed Standard

Head: Blunt wedge shape. Long, dry, finely chiseled skull. Slight stop. Nose bridge slightly longer than the skull. Flesh color nose. Powerful jaws.
Ears: Large. Thin leather. Broad at the base. Carried erect but very mobile.
Eyes: Oval shape. Amber color matching the coat.
Body: Supple, almost square. Long, dry, muscular neck without dewlap. Chest is well let down. Ribs well sprung.
Tail: Fairly thick at the root and tapering to the tip. Hangs down just past the hocks when at rest. Carried high and curved when in action.
Hair: Short, smooth, glossy, ranging from fine and close to slightly harsh.
Coat: Self-color fawn with white markings on the tip of the tail (bly desired), on the forechest (star), and on the toes. Narrow white stripe on the face is permissible.
Size: Dog: 56 to 63.5 cm Bitch: 53 to 61 cm
Weight: Approx. 28 kg

History

The Pharaoh Hound looks like the prick-ear hounds depicted in paintings on ancient Egyptian tombs. From Egypt, the breed spread to Europe through Spain and was maintained in the Balearic Islands.

Behavior

This active, very swift, supple dog is an excellent jumper and eager hunter (rabbit, hare, pheasant, etc.). He is a loving, affectionate, playful pet.

The Pharaoh Hound is not suited to life as a house dog. He needs frequent exercise. Regular brushing is required.

Function

Hunting Dog, Pet.

Health

Pharaoh hounds, being somewhat uncommon outside of the Maltese Islands of Malta and Gozo, and because they are not profitable for commercial breeding, have not been subjected to as much irresponsible breeding as some more popular breeds. Breeders try hard to prevent hereditary diseases from entering the gene pool and according to the American breed club, Pharaohs are virtually free from genetic diseases. Reputable breeders continue to test their breeding stock for genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, and myriad eye conditions just to ensure that these disorders do not become a problem. Reputable breeders should be able to show documentation of health screening performed on their breeding dogs. Note that Pharaohs, like most sighthounds, are sensitive to barbiturate anaesthetics. Their ears are thin and prone to frostbite when in cold climates.


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