Although the Pharaoh Hound had its origins in ancient Egypt it is thought dogs were brought from
Egypt by the Phoenicians when they settled on the Mediterranean islands of Malta and Gozo. There the breed has been preserved and is known to have existed for over 2,000 years. In Malta the dogs are breed for hunting rabbit and are known as "Kelb-tal-Fenek" or "Rabbit Dog" One of the most remarkable facts about the Pharaoh Hounds today is that they remained unchanged from those hounds depicted in the tombs of ancient Egypt. The dogs are described in a translation of the XIX Dynasty which reads:
"The red long tailed dog, goes at night into the stalls of the hills.
He is better than the long faced dog.
He makes no delay in hunting, his face glows like a god and he delights to do his work."
The blushing trait has not been lost throughout the ages. It is beautiful to see a Pharaoh Hound glow with happiness or excitement. The nose and ears turning a deep rose colour, and the lovely amber eyes further enriched with a deep rose hue.
Pharaoh Hounds came to Australia during the 1970’s. And are now shown in all states of Australia and many parts of the world including the UK, USA, NZ, and Scandinavia.
APPEARANCE
A medium sized hound, the Pharaoh hound gives an impression of grace and power, his clean cut lines and elegant bearing make him stand out in any company. In colour he is tan, any shade from pale tan to deep mahogany, with a white tip to his tail, a small white star on his breast and white on the toes.
CHARACTER
In older times the dogs were companions to the Pharaoh, the modern dog remains devoted to human company. He is an excellent watch-dog, very observant, possessing both keen eyesight and acute hearing. He barks promptly at the approach of strangers, but is friendly when properly introduced. He is quick to learn, eager to please and an ideal house dog. Bearing all this in mind, anyone contemplating owning a Pharaoh Hound should realise that he is not the easiest dog to keep. They are highly intelligent with very keen senses of sight, hearing and scent. As a hunting dog he is fast and clever with great speed. As a pet he is affectionate and loving, excellent with children and has a real sense of fun. He is not a dog that can be left in the back yard on his own, he truly needs the company of people. Lastly, and most essential for a Pharaoh’s well-being, they need a large, well fenced area for his yard and lots and lots of exercise. The Pharaoh Hound is extremely clean, hardly sheds any hair even when changing his coat. He is never smelly and his smooth short coat, seems to shake off dirt and mud. Usually a good brush is all that is needed.
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