The Pharaoh Hound Mix is a unique and captivating breed that can make a wonderful companion for the right owner. They are a cross between a Pharaoh Hound and another breed, resulting in a dog that's both energetic and affectionate.
Pharaoh Hound Mixes typically weigh between 30-50 pounds and stand between 18-23 inches tall. Their short coats require minimal grooming, but they do need regular nail trimming and ear cleaning.
These dogs are intelligent and trainable, but they can be strong-willed at times, requiring patient and consistent training. With positive reinforcement, they can learn to obey commands and behave well in public.
Physical Characteristics
Pharaoh Hound mix dogs are sleek and muscular, with a more "filled out" appearance that's not too thin or too fat.
Their ears are large and expressive, always giving away what they're thinking. You'll never be left wondering what's on their mind!
Pharaoh Hound mixes lack the pigment that gives other dogs their black nose or pads, instead having a light tan to reddish brown color. Some may have a big patch of white on their chest and tail, but it's not a requirement.
You can still see their ribs, which is a good thing to keep in mind when checking their weight - they shouldn't be too chubby, but a little extra weight is okay too.
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Appearance
Pharaoh Hounds have a sleek and muscular appearance, without looking too athletic or overworked.
They have large expressive ears that can give away their mood, so you'll always know what they're thinking.
Their bodies are long and graceful, but not as thin and aerodynamic as some other sighthounds, like the Greyhound.
You should be able to see their ribs, but they shouldn't be too thin or gaunt.
Pharaoh Hounds lack the dark pigment that gives other dogs their black nose or pads.
Their coloring falls somewhere between light tan and a reddish brown hue.
Some Pharaoh Hounds have a big patch of white on their chest and the end of their tail, but it's not a requirement for the breed.
Unique Characteristics
The Pharaoh Hound is a unique breed with some fascinating characteristics. They're a sighthound, bred to hunt by sight, which means they're always on the lookout for something interesting.
Their high energy level means they need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. In fact, they require high exercise needs, which is essential for burning off excess energy.
One of the most notable traits of the Pharaoh Hound is their high prey drive. This means they'll chase other pets like birds and small mammals if they get the chance. It's essential to supervise interactions between your Pharaoh Hound and other pets to ensure everyone gets along.
Their friendly temperament makes them great with kids, but it's crucial to supervise interactions between small children and boisterous Pharaoh Hounds. After all, those energetic dogs might accidentally knock over a small child if not watched closely.
Here's a breakdown of the Pharaoh Hound's characteristics:
Breed Overview
Pharaoh hounds can make great family pets in the right homes where they receive plenty of exercise and outlets for their hunting instincts.
They typically weigh between 45–55 pounds.
Active families and experienced dog owners are the best suited for these dogs.
Pharaoh hounds are gentle and affectionate, making them great companion dogs for the right family.
They can be very intelligent, though they're often independent, which doesn't always carry over to obedience training.
They were bred as hunting dogs for thousands of years, so they aren't the best dogs for more laidback families.
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Temperament and Behavior
Pharaoh Hounds are highly sensitive dogs that react strongly to their environment. They can be willful and require an experienced owner, making them unsuitable for new dog owners.
These dogs are known for their love of family and playful spirit. They enjoy spending as much time with their humans as possible and will happily participate in any family activities.
Pharaoh Hounds have a unique characteristic of "blushing" when excited, with the nose and ears turning a rosy color. They're also gentle, affectionate, and playful, making them great companion dogs for the right family.
Here's a quick rundown of their temperament and behavior:
- Kids: Yes, Pharaoh Hounds get along very well with kids, especially since they're both high-energy creatures.
- Cats: Sort of. They have a high prey drive, so you'll need to keep a close eye on your Pharaoh Hound around your cats.
- Other Dogs: Yes, Pharaoh Hounds generally get along well with other dogs.
- Strangers: This one is iffy. They love meeting new people when out and about, but can be shy when strangers come to the house.
Temperament & Intelligence
Pharaoh Hounds are known for their love of family and playful spirit, making them great companion pets. They enjoy spending as much time with their humans as possible, and they'll happily participate in any family activities.
Pharaoh Hounds are undoubtedly smart, and they can learn commands quickly. However, their independent streak can make them stubborn at times, requiring an experienced owner.
They're sensitive dogs that react strongly to their environment, so it's essential to keep things fun and engaging during training. Pharaoh Hounds have a high prey drive, and they'll chase after anything they see or smell.
This means that training must be entertaining and fun, using positive methods with plenty of treats, toys, or playtime as rewards. They're highly intelligent, but they won't just do something because you ask.
Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind when interacting with Pharaoh Hounds:
Pharaoh Hounds are highly sensitive dogs that require a gentle and patient approach. They'll "blush" when excited, with their nose and ears turning a rosy color. They're also prone to being drama queens, requiring plenty of hugs and attention when they're upset.
Despite their independent nature, Pharaoh Hounds are very attached to their owners and can become anxious when left alone. They'll often follow their owners around the house, and they may even get upset when they leave the house.
Overall, Pharaoh Hounds are intelligent, sensitive, and playful dogs that require a lot of attention and care. With the right approach, they can make wonderful companions for active families and experienced dog owners.
Energy Level
Pharaoh Hounds are known to have two speed modes: lightning fast and sleep mode. They can switch between these modes in an instant.
Their high energy levels can make them run like greyhounds, so it's essential to stay out of their way. I've seen this firsthand when my Pharaoh Hound, Freya, knocks people over with her zoomies.
You'll want to keep a close eye on your Pharaoh Hound when they're in high-energy mode, especially in tight spaces. Their long necks can make regular collars ineffective.
To manage their energy levels, regular exercise is a must. Taking them to a dog park or going for a walk around the neighborhood can help burn off their excess energy.
A Martingale collar or a good harness is recommended for walks, especially with Pharaoh Hounds. Their necks are quite long, and regular collars can't keep up.
Pharaoh Hounds need room to run, so keeping them in an apartment might not be the best idea. However, with regular exercise and the right equipment, they can thrive in a variety of living situations.
Upkeep
Pharaoh hound mixes need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy, which is similar to other hound breeds.
They require long daily walks on leash and occasional sprints, but they also love to run in a safe area.
Their short coat sheds very little, making them a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming.
A simple weekly wipe down over the body with a damp cloth is often all that's needed to keep their coat glossy.
They don't have a strong doggie odor, so baths are only necessary when they get dirty.
Pharaoh hound mixes need soft bedding and warmth to feel comfortable, and they love to snuggle under a blanket with their owners to keep warm.
In cold weather, it's recommended to provide extra care for this breed, and many owners outfit their dogs in warm coats for winter walks.
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Health and Nutrition
Pharaoh Hound mixes are generally healthy dogs, but there are some things to be aware of. They're more sensitive to anesthesia than most breeds, so it's essential to find a vet who uses the Greyhound Protocol for surgery.
Their rapid metabolism also makes them more sensitive to medication, so be cautious when giving them any medication. Pharaoh Hounds are prone to certain health issues, including cataracts, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV or bloat).
To keep your Pharaoh Hound mix healthy, feed them high-quality dog food with plenty of protein and a food ideally formulated for large breeds. They thrive on a diet that caters to their energetic lifestyle, so choose a commercial formula designed for athletic or active dogs.
Diet and Nutrition
Pharaoh Hounds are lean dogs that need a diet that supports their muscles, so look for commercial dog foods that are designed for athletic or active dogs. These diets typically contain more protein and calories.
Their short coats can make them more susceptible to itchy skin conditions or environmental allergies, so a balanced diet is crucial. A high-quality dog food with plenty of protein is a great place to start.
Pharaoh Hounds are prone to bloat, a condition where gases expand in the stomach and cause it to twist. To prevent this, your vet may recommend feeding several smaller meals throughout the day.
To ensure your Pharaoh Hound is getting the right amount of nutrients, consult your veterinarian to determine a healthy diet and portion schedule based on your dog's age, weight, and activity level.
Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
Healthy fats like omega fatty acids are also important for supporting your dog's joints, which may take more strain than most due to their active nature.
Are Hypoallergenic?
Some breeds are more suitable for people with allergies than others.
The Pharaoh Hound is not considered a hypoallergenic dog, but they do shed very little.
This makes them a better option for people with mild allergies, but it's essential to note that every person's allergies are different.
The Pharaoh Hound's low shedding is a significant factor in their potential suitability for allergy sufferers.
It's crucial to consider individual circumstances and allergies when deciding on a pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pharaoh hound mixes are often a topic of curiosity, and I've got some answers to common questions.
Pharaoh hound mixes are a cross between a Pharaoh Hound and another breed, resulting in a unique combination of characteristics.
One of the most common questions about Pharaoh hound mixes is how they compare to their purebred counterparts.
Sources
- Pharaoh Hound Dog Breed Information (akc.org)
- Pharaoh Hound rescue group (ph-club.org)
- Pharaoh Hound Club of America (ph-club.org)
- Pharaoh Hound Club of America Rescue Dogs (ph-club.org)
- https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/pharaoh-hound (dogtime.com)
- Pharaoh Hound Dog & Puppy Breed and Adoption Info (petfinder.com)
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