The Pharaoh Hound is an ancient breed with a rich history that dates back thousands of years. They originated from the island of Malta, where they were bred for hunting small game.
This breed is known for its distinctive appearance, with a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including tan, white, and black. Their ears are also quite striking, being long and narrow.
Pharaoh Hounds are highly energetic dogs that require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, which can include running, playing fetch, or even just a good ol' fashioned walk around the block.
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Health and Care
Pharaoh Hounds are a wonderful breed, but like all dogs, they do require some special care to stay healthy and happy. Brushing your Pharaoh Hound's teeth daily will prevent periodontal disease.
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to catch any potential health issues early on. Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pet's breed. Pharaoh Hounds are more at risk for certain conditions, but that doesn't mean your dog will definitely get them.
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Tumors, both benign and cancerous, can look like anything, so it's essential to have all lumps and bumps checked out. A Mast Cell Tumor is a type of cancer that can appear as a red swelling on the skin surface.
Pharaoh Hounds generally have good teeth, but it's still important to brush them at least twice a week to keep them perfect. Regular ear cleaning is also a must, especially for puppies. Clean their ears weekly, even as a puppy, and don't worry, your vet will show you how.
A proper diet and exercise routine are vital for your Pharaoh Hound's health. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age, and keep her diet consistent. Don't give her people food, as this can lead to unhealthy eating habits.
Here are some specific care tips to keep your Pharaoh Hound happy and healthy:
- Supervise your pet as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and picking up after yourself.
- Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly.
- Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy.
- Keep her mind and body active with regular exercise, but don't overdo it at first.
- Provide a warm winter wardrobe, as Pharaoh Hounds can be sensitive to cold.
- Keep her on a leash and ensure a sturdy fence is in place, as she has a high prey drive.
Care and Lifestyle
Taking care of your Pharaoh Hound is like taking care of yourself - it's all about common sense. Watch her diet, make sure she gets plenty of exercise, and brush her teeth and coat regularly.
Pharaoh Hounds have low grooming needs, but they still need regular brushing, at least weekly. Brushing her coat will help keep her looking and feeling her best.
Pharaoh Hounds generally have good teeth, and with regular brushing, you can keep them perfect - aim for at least twice a week. This will help prevent any dental problems from arising.
Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. This is an important part of her routine care, and it's something you can learn to do with a little practice.
To keep your Pharaoh Hound happy and healthy, it's essential to keep her mind and body active. With plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, she'll be less likely to get bored and engage in naughty behavior.
Pharaoh Hounds can be sensitive to cold, so make sure she has a warm winter wardrobe. This will help keep her comfortable and happy during the colder months.
If you're not careful, your Pharaoh Hound's high prey drive can get her into trouble. Make sure to leash walk her and install a sturdy fence to keep her safe and contained.
To keep your Pharaoh Hound's diet consistent, feed her a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. Avoid giving her people food, as this can lead to digestive problems and other health issues.
Here are some key things to remember when caring for your Pharaoh Hound:
- Supervise your pet as you would a toddler.
- Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary.
- Clean her ears weekly.
- Keep her diet consistent and don't give her people food.
- Exercise her regularly, but don't overdo it at first.
What to Watch
As a Pharaoh Hound owner, it's essential to be aware of any abnormal symptoms your dog may be experiencing. Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease.
It's crucial to know when to seek veterinary help. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Pharaoh Hound needs help.
Keep an eye out for any unusual behavior or changes in your dog's routine. Your Pharaoh Hound's health is a top priority, and being proactive can make all the difference.
History and Characteristics
The Pharaoh Hound is an ancient breed with a rich history. They're believed to have originated from the island of Malta, where they've remained relatively isolated since around 1,000 B.C.
These dogs have a striking resemblance to the hounds depicted in Egyptian temples from before 4,000 B.C. and to the dog god, Anubis. They're also unusual in that they use both scent and sight for hunting.
The Pharaoh Hound is a Sighthound, known for their intelligence, friendly, affectionate, and playful nature. They're alert, active, and very fast, with a marked keenness for hunting.
Here are some key characteristics of the Pharaoh Hound breed:
- Energetic, active, and athletic
- Good with kids and other pets
- Vigilant watchdog with a ready bark
- Outgoing, playful personality
- Brave and ready for adventure
- Lively, with a friendly personality
Their lifespan is generally around 12-14 years, making them a long-term companion for many families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Pharaoh Hounds still exist?
Yes, Pharaoh Hounds still exist and are relatively rare, with a dedicated following among dog enthusiasts. Despite their rarity, they remain a beloved breed with a rich history.
How much does a Pharaoh Hound puppy cost?
A Pharaoh Hound puppy typically costs between $1,500 and $2,500, making it a more expensive breed due to its rarity.
Sources
- Pharaoh Hound History: The Dog That Hunts With Ferrets (akc.org)
- Pharaoh Hound - Breed Info – Valley Animal Hospital (valleyanimalhospitalllc.com)
- Pharaoh Hound - Breed Info – Main Street Veterinary Clinic (mainstreetvetclinic.com)
- Pharaoh Hound - Breed Standards (ukcdogs.com)
- Pharaoh Hound Dog Breed Profile - Maryland Pet (marylandpet.com)
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