Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound is the national dog of Malta and one of the most ancient dog breeds on Earth, though this claim is complicated by genetics.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
Malta
Lifespan
11–14 years
Weight
18–27 kg (40–60 lbs)
Height
53–63 cm (21–25 in)
Exercise
30 to 60 min/day
Diet
Omnivore — active medium-breed formula; sensitive to anesthetics — inform vet of breed
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Pharaoh Hound is the national dog of Malta and one of the most ancient dog breeds on Earth, though this claim is complicated by genetics. Dogs very similar to the Pharaoh Hound are depicted in ancient Egyptian paintings and carvings, leading to the assumption of direct lineage — however, DNA studies have shown the modern Maltese breed is genetically distinct from ancient Egyptian dogs, suggesting the similar appearance is convergent evolution rather than direct descent. Regardless of their precise origins, Pharaoh Hounds are unique for a remarkable characteristic: they blush — their nose and ears flush noticeably pink when excited.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
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Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
The Pharaoh Hound is an athletic, elegant sighthound-type dog with a clean-cut head, large amber eyes, and extremely large, erect ears that are particularly mobile and expressive. The coat is short, glossy, and tight. The rich tan to chestnut colouring with a white-tipped tail is characteristic. The blushing ability — visible pink flush to nose and ears when excited — is a unique biological trait.
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Low
Brushing
1x-Weekly
Bathing
Every-6-8-Weeks
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Pharaoh Hounds are affectionate, playful, and intelligent. They are sociable with their family and generally friendly with strangers once introduced. Their prey drive is extremely high — they should never be trusted off-lead near small animals. They are sensitive dogs that respond well to positive, patient training. Their independent sighthound streak makes them selective about compliance.
Personality Scores
Adaptability
3/5Attention Need
3/5Friendliness
4/5Playfulness
4/5Protectiveness
2/5Living Profile
Ideal Space
House-Large-Garden
Daily Exercise
30 to 60 min/day
Ideal Weather
10°C to 35°C
Cognitive Benchmarks
Adaptability
30%
Attention
30%
Playfulness
40%
Communication Style
Stress Signals
escape attempts, aloofness, trembling, blushing (nose/ears turn rosy when excited)
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •Daily vigorous exercise in a securely fenced area. The short coat requires minimal maintenance — weekly wipe-down. Like all sighthounds, anaesthetic sensitivity should be communicated to the vet. They are sensitive to cold.
Nutrition Notes
Lean build is normal — sighthound physique. Very few breed-specific dietary concerns — one of the healthiest purebred dogs. Sighthound anaesthesia sensitivity.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Senior Care
Remarkably healthy breed with very few genetic issues. The only dog breed that blushes — nose and ears turn deep rose when excited or happy. Malta's national dog. Sighthound drug sensitivities apply. 12-14 years.
Wellbeing Activities
Nutrition & Sustenance
Daily Calories (Adult)
1000 kcal
Daily Calories (Young)
700 kcal
Recommended Foods
Foods to Avoid
Health Overview
Generally a healthy, robust breed with few documented hereditary conditions. Hip dysplasia occurs rarely. Anaesthetic sensitivity (sighthound) should be managed carefully. They are sensitive to certain medications including anaesthetics.
Common Conditions
Price Estimates
Pricing Guide
Average estimates as of 2025
One of the most expensive breeds. Very rare globally. Suits Indian climate well (Mediterranean origin). India: essentially unavailable domestically.
Purchase Price
$2,000 to $5,000
Adoption Fee
$100 to $500
Data from 2025
Fun Facts
The Pharaoh Hound literally blushes — when excited, its nose and ears flush a noticeably deeper pink due to increased blood flow. This phenomenon is unique in the dog world.
The Pharaoh Hound is the national dog of Malta, where it has been used for centuries to hunt rabbits in the rocky Maltese countryside using both scent and sight.
DNA analysis has challenged the Pharaoh Hound's claimed ancient Egyptian origin — genetic studies suggest the modern breed developed more recently in Malta, with the Egyptian similarity being convergent evolution rather than direct descent.
