Hound group

Pharaoh Hound

The blushing dog of Malta — graceful, playful and quick as the wind.

Pharaoh Hounds are elegant, amber-eyed hunting dogs from Malta, famous for “blushing” when excited. They are affectionate, playful and clownish, but need exercise, secure fencing and gentle training.

Height
21–25 in53–64 cm
Weight
45–55 lb20–25 kg
Life expectancy
12–14 years
Size
Medium
Group
Hound
Origin
Malta

Coat: Short, glossy, fine coat. Colours: Tan, Rich tan, Chestnut, With white markings.

At a glance

Exercise Requirement4.0 / 5
20-30 min gentle walk2+ hours intense stamina
Indoor "Off-Switch"3.5 / 5
Restless / constantly searching for actionInstantly curls up and relaxes indoors
Trainability3.0 / 5
Strong independent thinkerEager biddable student
Mental Stimulation3.5 / 5
Content with routineNeeds a job or creates mischief
Affection Level4.0 / 5
Polite distanceConstant lap snuggler
Stranger Friendliness3.0 / 5
Naturally aloof / watchfulGreets every stranger as best friend
Child Patience & Safety4.0 / 5
Prefers quiet adultsRemarkably sturdy & patient
Other Dog Friendliness4.0 / 5
Strong solo-dog preferenceLoves pack play and multi-dog homes
Prey Drive5.0 / 5
Ignores crittersHigh pursuit instinct / fence chaser
Vocalization & Barking3.0 / 5
Nearly mute / quietWatchful alarm barker or howler
Shedding Level2.0 / 5
Minimal to non-sheddingHeavy year-round fur shedding
Grooming Burden1.0 / 5
Wash & wear coatDaily brushing + salon visits
Drool Tendency1.0 / 5
Dry-mouthedRequires dedicated slobber towels
Apartment Suitability3.0 / 5
Needs acreage or private runThrives in urban elevator apartments
Beginner Friendliness3.0 / 5
Demands experienced handlerIdeal forgiving companion for first-timers
Owner Demand Level3.0 / 5
Very forgiving for novicesRequires skilled firm handling

Ratings describe typical dogs of the breed on a 1–5 scale. Individual dogs vary with lines, upbringing and training.

Temperament

Pharaohs are friendly, intelligent and fun-loving. They bond closely with their families and are usually good with children and other dogs.

They are independent hunters with strong prey drive and can be sensitive. Recall is unreliable, and they are escape artists.

Living with a Pharaoh Hound

Exercise

Needs an hour or more of exercise daily, including safe off-lead sprints.

Grooming

Minimal: weekly brushing with a soft brush and regular nail care. Light shedding; provide a coat in cold weather.

Training

Clever but independent, and sensitive to harsh handling. Keep training short, fun and positive, and never rely on recall near prey.

Kids & other pets

Good with children and usually friendly with other dogs. Unsafe with cats and small pets unless raised with them.

Time alone

Tolerates moderate alone time; needs warmth and secure fencing.

Home fit

Can manage in an apartment with committed daily exercise; a house with outdoor space is easier.

Is a Pharaoh Hound right for you?

Take the Breed Fit quiz to see how a Pharaoh Hound matches your home, schedule and tolerance for shedding, barking and exercise — or find out which breed matches your personality with Dogsona.

Take the Breed Fit quizTry Dogsona →

Health

With good breeding and care, a Pharaoh Hound typically lives 12–14 years. These are the conditions most associated with the breed — not a prediction for any individual dog.

  • Hip dysplasia

    Screened parents reduce the risk of joint disease.

  • Patellar luxation

    Loose kneecaps occasionally occur.

  • Anaesthesia sensitivity

    Lean hounds may react differently to anaesthesia; choose an experienced vet.

  • Hypothyroidism

    An underactive thyroid; managed with daily medication.

Ask a breeder for

  • Hip evaluation
  • Patella evaluation
  • Eye examination
  • Thyroid evaluation

Sources: OFA health testing guidance: Pharaoh Hound; Pharaoh Hound Club of America. This is general information, not veterinary advice — talk to your vet about your own dog.

Cost to own

After the first year, expect roughly $1,200–$2,500 a year for food, routine vet care, preventives, insurance and supplies (US estimate).

  • Pet insurance for a puppy typically runs $30–$60 a month; premiums rise with age and breed risk.
See the full first-year cost breakdown →

History

Despite the name, the Pharaoh Hound is Malta’s national dog, where it is called Kelb tal-Fenek (rabbit dog). It hunts rabbits by sight and scent, often at night.

The breed’s resemblance to ancient Egyptian dogs gave it its English name. The AKC recognised the Pharaoh Hound in 1983.

Did you know?

  • Pharaoh Hounds “blush” — their nose and ears turn rosy when they are excited.
  • The breed is Malta’s national dog.
  • Their amber eyes are a breed hallmark and blend with the tan coat and flesh-coloured nose.

Library guides for Pharaoh Hound owners

Similar breeds

Frequently asked questions

Are Pharaoh Hounds good family dogs?
Yes — they are affectionate and playful, with enough exercise and secure fencing.
Do Pharaoh Hounds shed?
Lightly. Their short coat is easy to care for.
Are Pharaoh Hounds from Egypt?
No — they come from Malta, though they resemble dogs in ancient Egyptian art.