Pharaoh Hound

A Maltese dog with an Egyptian-sounding name

The Pharaoh Hound is native to Malta, where its documented working identity is rabbit hunting. The Royal Kennel Club discusses its resemblance to dogs in ancient Egyptian imagery, but visual similarity is not sufficient to prove an uninterrupted pedigree from a particular tomb painting to the modern breed.

The name can therefore be misleading if it obscures the Maltese connection. Modern breed development and later international recognition are more securely described through the official standard than through precise ancient migration stories. This profile follows the Maltese Pharaoh Hound, a separate identity from other Mediterranean erect-eared hunting breeds.

A tan jacket over an athletic frame

Short glossy hair exposes the dog's lean outline and erect ears. Tan shades are characteristic, with certain white markings allowed. The coat has no long leg or tail feathering, although its texture can vary from fine and close to slightly harsher hair.

Playfulness alongside pursuit

The standard's friendly and intelligent ideal should be read with its hunting background. Rewarding attention and secure opportunities for activity help owners plan for an individual that notices movement. A dog can be affectionate with familiar people without having dependable recall around every small animal.

Gentle short-coat maintenance

Check feet and equipment contact points after outdoor sessions, using tools that do not scrape lean areas. Introduce examination gradually rather than relying on prolonged restraint. Explain sensitivities to a groomer and seek assessment for persistent skin changes or painful movement instead of assuming athletic appearance proves health.

Plan comfortable care

Our gentle coat-care guide and first grooming appointment guide help you prepare questions about handling, maintenance and a suitable service. This breed profile is independent of named businesses.

Photograph and sources

The photograph illustrates one Pharaoh Hound. See the linked credit for its creator, source and reusable licence. It does not establish the dog's health, age or temperament.

Read the FCI catalogue entry and FCI breed standard. General care and handling guidance is available from PDSA and Dogs Trust.

Additional primary reading: Royal Kennel Club Pharaoh Hound history.

Character and behaviour

The FCI describes an alert, intelligent, friendly and playful dog. A hunting background can involve strong interest in pursuit, even in an affectionate companion. Plan secure exploration and assess recall, animal introductions and unfamiliar handling through the individual's responses.

Breed descriptions are broad tendencies. An individual dog's behaviour also reflects experience, training and circumstances.

Care in daily life

Use gentle tools for short hair and check feet and equipment contact areas after activity. Practise calm examination without scraping lean or sensitive areas. Ask a groomer about comfortable handling, and seek veterinary advice for persistent skin irritation or pain.

Care depends on the individual dog. If you notice a skin or health problem, speak to a vet.