Pharaoh Hound
Male: 20-25 kg, Female: 18-23 kg
53-63.5 cm at the shoulder
11-14 years
Malta
About the Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound is an ancient and elegant breed, often likened to the jackal-god Anubis of Egyptian mythology, though its true genetic development is rooted in Malta. Characterised by its alert, upright ears and noble bearing, this sighthound possesses a unique combination of grace and power. They are one of the few hounds that hunt using both sight and scent, making them versatile and highly tuned to their environment. In the home, they are devoted companions that form deep bonds with their families. They are known for their cleanliness and lack of 'doggy' odour, often behaving with a cat-like independence indoors while remaining deeply affectionate. Their distinctive 'smile' and ability to blush make them incredibly expressive and endearing pets for active households that appreciate a dog with both history and high spirit.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Pharaoh Hound must exude a regal and 'keen' expression, accentuated by their large, fine, mobile ears and amber-coloured eyes. Their movement should be free and flowing, with the head held high, showing great reach and drive without any suggestion of heaviness. The topline should be almost straight, flowing into a slight arch over the loin.
In Australia
The Pharaoh Hound was first introduced to Australia in 1974. The first specimens were imported to establish the breed within the ANKC framework for breeding purposes, and they were also imported for show purposes.
Bred For
Originally bred for hunting rabbits (known as 'Kelb tal-Fenek' or 'dog of the rabbit') using both sight and scent in the rugged terrain of the Maltese Islands.
Temperament
Intelligent, affectionate, and playful, the Pharaoh Hound is known for its noble yet clownish personality. They are famously 'blushers,' where their ears and nose turn a deep rose colour when excited or happy.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
While generally a very healthy and hardy breed, they can be predisposed to , , and certain eye conditions such as . Like many sighthounds, they are also notably sensitive to barbiturate anaesthesia and certain topical insecticides.
Exercise Needs
High.
Grooming Needs
Minimal. Their short, fine coat requires only a weekly wipe-down with a damp cloth or a rubber grooming mitt to remove loose hairs and maintain shine.
Living Suitability
Suited to houses with a medium-to-large, securely fenced yard.
Good with Kids
Generally very good with children, particularly those old enough to respect a dog's space. Their playful nature makes them excellent companions, though their speed and size might be overwhelming for very small toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Usually good with other medium-to-large dogs. However, due to an exceptionally high prey drive, they are often not suited to homes with cats, rabbits, or other small pets unless raised with them under strict supervision.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but independent-minded. They respond best to positive reinforcement and variety; they can become bored or 'stubborn' with repetitive, traditional obedience drills.
Coat & Colours
Short and glossy, ranging from fine and close to slightly harsh, with no feathering.. Tan or rich chestnut with specific white markings permitted on the tip of the tail (highly desirable), chest ('star'), and toes.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that Pharaoh Hounds are sighthounds with a profound prey drive; they are notorious 'escape artists' if a fence is not high enough or if they spot a rabbit. They are more likely to be sensitive to the cold due to their thin coats and lack of body fat, so winter coats are often a necessity in Southern Australia. Some Pharaoh Hounds can be predisposed to skin sensitivities or digestive upset when fed highly processed commercial kibbles containing artificial dyes or fillers—this doesn't mean every dog will, but many thrive significantly better on a clean, fresh-food diet. Additionally, their vocal nature during play or when 'talking' to their owners is a breed quirk to be prepared for. Crucially, owners must inform their veterinarians of the breed's predisposed sensitivity to certain anaesthetics, which requires specific protocols during surgery.
Feeding Guide for Your Pharaoh Hound
Healthy Weight
18-25 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
440-660 grams
For a Pharaoh Hound, a fresh or raw diet should focus on lean muscle meats to support their athletic frame. Based on an average weight of 22kg, we recommend feeding approximately 440g to 660g of fresh food per day, divided into two meals. Adjust portions based on individual metabolism and activity levels to keep them lean—you should be able to feel, but not prominently see, the ribs.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A diet rich in high-quality animal proteins and moderate fats is essential to maintain their lean, muscular physique. They often thrive on a low-residue, highly digestible diet that avoids excessive fillers or artificial additives.
A Pharaoh Hound's ideal raw diet should consist of approximately 70-80% lean muscle meat, 10% edible bone, and 10% organ meat, supplemented with small amounts of crushed vegetables. At Majestik Pet Food, we recommend lean Kangaroo or Beef as primary protein sources to maintain muscle without excess fat. Inclusion of Sardines provides essential Omega-3 fatty acids for skin health, which is vital given their thin coats. Avoid high-purine organ excess and ensure bones are appropriate for their jaw size to prevent dental wear.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Pharaoh Hound Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Pharaoh Hound? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-8 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.