Jericho

Pharaoh Hounds & Pointer

d'Lea

Cirneco dell'Etna

There are a couple of theories on the history of the Pharaoh Hound, each with their following of believers.  The Mediterranean Island of Malta is credited with preserving the Pharaoh Hound as a hunting dog, guardian of homes and companion.  Malta is listed as the country of origin, but many believe the dogs' roots lie within the tombs of Ancient Egypt.  Still more believe the dog originates in the Mediterranean Maltese Islands.

The Egyptian Theory:

The Pharaoh Hound is one of the oldest domesticated dogs in recorded history, with lineage tracing back 5000 years.  It is remarkable how the dog we know today as the Pharaoh Hound, is virtually unchanged from the hounds depicted in the tombs of Ancient Egypt.  It is suggested that the Pharaoh Hound was taken by the Phoenician traders from Ancient Egypt and disbursed throughout the Mediterranean.

The Maltese Theory:

A recent discovery of work by Margaret Murry, and Egyptologist, uncovered a plate, called an Ostrakon from the Roman era.  This Ostrakon depicted a man holding two prick eared dogs with writing describing them as "Maltese."  It is believed that the dogs were taken from the Mediterranean Islands to Egypt, likely as gifts for the Royalty.

Modern Summary:

The Pharaoh Hound as we know it today was developed and preserved on the islands of Malta and Gozo.  These hounds are treasured by the Maltese farmers and are bred primarily for rabbit hunting.  The Pharaoh Hound, known on Malta as "Kelb-tal-Fenek" (meaning rabbit dog), was declared the National Dog of Malta in 1979, and a silver coin was minted showing the likeness of a standing Pharaoh to commemorate the occasion.

They were first introduced to England in the early 1960's, then finally brought to the United States in 1967.  Since then, the Pharaoh has steadily increased in popularity and numbers.

The Pharaoh is a medium sized dog, ranging from 21 to 25 inches and weighing from 40 to 70 pounds.  They have large natural upright ears which are carried erect when alert.  An elegant head, a long slightly arched neck and a graceful but powerful  body.  Their tail is whip-like and is carried over their back when in motion.  They can only be one color, ranging from tan to rich tan to chestnut.  A white tip on the tail is strongly desired with white being allowed on the chest, toes, and a slim white snip on the center line of the face.  The white markings are important part of the breed.  The Maltese hunt with the dog at night, and the white markings allow the hunter a means of seeing his dog by the moonlight.  An outstanding feature of the breed is their hauntingly beautiful amber eyes.  Their nose, eye rims and lips are flesh colored......blending with the coat.  It was intended for the color to blend in with the sands of the Egyptian desert, and the Maltese found it useful in blending with the Islands' rocky habitats, giving the "hunter" an invisible advantage with his prey.

Many Pharaohs display a marvelous trait of smiling, showing their pearly white scissors bite.  Some smiles are just grins, with the corners of the mouth upturned, but most smiles are huge nose-wrinkling displays of a mouthful of teeth, occasionally embellished with violent sneezing.  The Pharaoh smile can never be confused with an aggressive show of teeth, for it is always accompanied by much wagging of the tail and wiggling of the body and sometimes happy groans and snorts.  Another interesting feature is that they "blush".  It is beautiful to see a Pharaoh glow with excitement, happiness, or contentment--the nose and ears turning a deep rose color, and the lovely amber eyes further enriched with a deep rose hue.

The Pharaoh is a wonderful household pet and they never lose their zest for life.  Though not suited for kennel life as they crave human attention, many times interrupting the activities for their fair share of the attention.   They are intelligent, alert, fun-loving and affectionate.  They make an excellent watchdog, protective of their environment, wary of strangers, but friendly when properly introduced.

The active owner has a wide range of choices to participate in with their Pharaoh.  Aside from showing, they make an excellent obedience partner, and lure coursing is an exciting activity to enjoy with your Pharaoh.  It's an artificial sport that allows us the opportunity to humanely watch what our dogs were bred to do 5000 years ago.  It is thrilling to see them run, and listen to them bark with delight in the chase.  Other activities enjoyed by some Pharaoh owners have included Tracking, Weight pulling, Oval and Straight racing, Flyball, Freestyle (dancing with your dog), and the most popular sport of Agility.  The opportunities are only as limited as the owner makes them.