Pharaoh Hound — breed guide
Malta's national hound, the Kelb tal-Fenek. Blushes — its nose and ears flush genuinely pink when it is happy or excited.
At a glance
- Group
- hound
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 20–25 kg (44–55 lb)
- Life span
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short, fine, glossy tan coat
Living with a Pharaoh Hound
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Almost no grooming.
- Light shedding.
- Trainable with consistency.
- Vocal when there is a reason.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- Better with previous experience behind you.
- Handles warm weather well.
- Feels the cold.
Temperament
Playful · Clever · Affectionate · Independent
Health to watch
- Anaesthesia sensitivity
- Patellar luxation
- Hypothyroidism
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Pharaoh Hound good with kids?
Generally yes. Pharaoh Hounds are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Pharaoh Hound good with cats?
It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.
How much exercise does a Pharaoh Hound need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Pharaoh Hound handle hot weather?
It copes well with warm days.
Leash Life keeps a Pharaoh Hound's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.