Pharaoh Hound Care Guide: Everything You Need to Know3 min read

The Pharaoh Hound is a unique and athletic breed known for its friendly disposition and high energy levels. This care guide provides essential information on how to keep this breed healthy and happy.

Pharaoh Hound at a Glance

The Pharaoh Hound is an ancient breed with a rich history. Originating from Malta, this medium-large dog is renowned for its speed and agility. Below is a quick overview of the breed's key characteristics.

• Weight: 18-27 kg (males), 16-25 kg (females)
• Height: 56-64 cm (males), 53-61 cm (females)
• Coat: Short, glossy, fine
• Shedding: Low
• Temperament: Friendly, Smart, Playful, Alert

Exercise Requirements

Pharaoh Hounds are high-energy dogs requiring about 1.5 hours of exercise daily. Activities like running, agility training, and interactive play are ideal for keeping them physically fit and mentally stimulated. Regular outdoor activities are crucial, as they enjoy exploring their environment.

• Daily exercise: 1.5 hours
• Best suited activities: Running, agility courses, fetch
• Social playtime with other dogs is beneficial

Grooming & Coat Care

The Pharaoh Hound has a short, glossy coat that requires minimal grooming. To maintain a healthy coat, brush 2-3 times per week to remove loose hair and dirt. Bathing should be done every 2-3 months or as needed, and they typically do not require professional grooming.

• Shedding level: Low
• Brush 2-3 times per week
• Bathe every 2-3 months

Feeding & Nutrition

Feeding a Pharaoh Hound involves providing high-quality dog food tailored to their size and energy level. Portion sizes can vary based on weight, but generally, adult males should receive 2-3 cups of food daily, while females need about 1.5-2.5 cups. It's important to feed them twice a day to avoid bloat, a common health issue for the breed. Avoid feeding them human food, particularly those that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate and onions.

• Adult males: 2-3 cups daily
• Adult females: 1.5-2.5 cups daily
• Feed twice a day to prevent bloat
• Avoid toxic foods like chocolate and onions

Training & Socialisation

Pharaoh Hounds are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start training early and use positive reinforcement techniques. Socialization is crucial; expose them to a variety of people, environments, and other animals to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults. Group classes can be beneficial for both training and socialization.

• Use positive reinforcement for training
• Start socialization early
• Consider group training classes

Common Health Issues

While generally healthy, Pharaoh Hounds are prone to specific health issues. Common conditions include anesthesia sensitivity, hypothyroidism, bloat, and skin allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups and screenings are recommended to catch any potential issues early. Be vigilant about their diet and watch for signs of bloating, such as a swollen abdomen.

• Anesthesia sensitivity
• Hypothyroidism
• Bloat - monitor for signs
• Skin allergies - watch for rashes or irritation

Is the Pharaoh Hound Right for You?

Pharaoh Hounds make excellent companions for active individuals or families. They thrive in environments where they can run and play. If you're looking for a playful and friendly dog that requires a commitment to exercise and training, this breed could be a great fit. However, they may not be suitable for households with small pets, as they have a strong prey drive.

• Great for active families
• Requires regular exercise
• Not ideal for homes with small pets