Breed overview
Pharaoh Hound
Elegant, ancient-looking and unmistakably regal, the Pharaoh Hound is the national dog of Malta, where it was bred to hunt rabbit over rocky terrain by sight, sound and scent. It has a party trick too, blushing a warm rose colour on its nose and ears when excited. Sleek and warm-loving, this sighthound-type actually enjoys sunshine and copes well with a 10 to 24 degree climate. Its short coat sheds very little. Athletic and fast, it needs 60 to 90 minutes of daily running and an independent house with secure space. It lives 12 to 14 years, and being rare it commands ₹80,000 to ₹1,50,000.
- Origin
- Malta 🌍
- Size
- Medium Breed
- Lifespan
- 12 - 14 years
- Buying price
- ₹80,000 - ₹1,50,000
- Ideal space
- Independent House
- Weather
- 10 - 24°C
- Coat type
- Short to Medium Coat
Core Behavioral Traits of the Pharaoh Hound
Nutrition
Meal guidance, safe foods, and macro balance.
Nutritional Guide for Pharaoh Hound
An elegant, lean sighthound, the Pharaoh Hound carries little spare fat and does well on a 30 percent protein bowl with a modest 10 percent fat. Adults need about 1,600 calories to match real speed and stamina, more than the 1,200 of pups. Feed to maintain that naturally slim build rather than adding weight. Omega-3 supports the joints and its short coat. This breed feels the cold, but in India, focus on hydration in heat. Monthly feeding is around ₹2,250 to ₹3,000.
At a glance
- Monthly food cost
- ₹2,250 - ₹3,000
- Calories per day
- 1200 / 1600 kcal
Recommended foods
- Cooked deboned chicken providing lean, complete animal protein essential for the Pharaoh Hound's muscle repair, coat health, and high daily energy levels.
- Premium quality dry kibble formulated for medium breed breeds, delivering balanced macro-nutrients and supporting dental health through mechanical chewing.
- Lean fresh meats including turkey, beef, or lamb delivering complete amino acid profiles to sustain the Pharaoh Hound's active musculature and metabolic needs.
- Fresh fish rich in marine Omega-3 fatty acids that reinforce the Pharaoh Hound's brain function, coat condition, joint lubrication, and cardiovascular health.
- Dog-safe fruits like blueberries, apples, and watermelon providing natural antioxidants and vitamins to strengthen the Pharaoh Hound's immune system without added sugars.
Essential nutrients
- High-quality animal protein from chicken, fish, and meat to fuel the Pharaoh Hound's high-energy lifestyle and support lean muscle repair
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids to maintain the Pharaoh Hound's coat condition, joint lubrication, and cardiovascular health
- Complex low-glycemic carbohydrates providing sustained energy release for the Pharaoh Hound's daily activity demands
- Fat and water-soluble vitamins to support the Pharaoh Hound's immune system, vision, and efficient cellular repair processes
- Calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals to sustain the Pharaoh Hound's bone density, dental health, and enzymatic function
- Prebiotic dietary fiber to regulate the Pharaoh Hound's bowel transit and support efficient nutrient absorption throughout the digestive system
Macro breakdown
- Protein30%
High-quality animal proteins from chicken, fish, and meat support lean muscle mass and sustain the Pharaoh Hound's high daily energy demands.
- Fats10%
Essential Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids from fish oil maintain the Pharaoh Hound's coat condition, joint lubrication, and cardiovascular function.
- Carbohydrates45%
Complex carbohydrates from grains and vegetables provide sustained energy release and digestive fiber for the Pharaoh Hound's active lifestyle.
- Vitamins5%
Fat and water-soluble vitamins support the Pharaoh Hound's immune system, vision, and cellular repair processes throughout all life stages.
- Minerals5%
Calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals maintain the Pharaoh Hound's bone density, dental health, and enzymatic function.
- Fibre5%
Prebiotic dietary fiber promotes smooth intestinal transit and efficient nutrient absorption in the Pharaoh Hound.
Foods to avoid
- Alcohol: Alcohol is acutely toxic to the Pharaoh Hound's central nervous system and liver, causing vomiting, disorientation, and potentially fatal respiratory depression even in trace amounts.
- Almonds: Almonds is harmful to the Pharaoh Hound's metabolic system and must be strictly excluded from its diet to prevent toxicity reactions.
- Avocados: Avocado flesh and pit contain persin, a fungicidal toxin that causes vomiting, diarrhea, and myocardial damage in the Pharaoh Hound.
- Cherries: Cherry pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides that release hydrogen cyanide in the Pharaoh Hound's digestive tract, disrupting cellular oxygen uptake.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon is harmful to the Pharaoh Hound's metabolic system and must be strictly excluded from its diet to prevent toxicity reactions.
- Coffee / Tea: Caffeine in coffee and tea overstimulates the Pharaoh Hound's cardiovascular and nervous systems, triggering rapid heart rate, tremors, and seizures in dangerous doses.
Prohibited ingredients
- BHA and BHT synthetic preservatives place unnecessary oxidative stress on the Pharaoh Hound's liver and kidney tissues, accumulating over time and disrupting hormonal balance.
- Artificial colorants and synthetic dye agents like Red 40 and Yellow 5 offer zero nutritional value while triggering dermal sensitivities and intestinal allergic reactions in the Pharaoh Hound.
- Xylitol and artificial sweetener compounds cause immediate dangerous insulin surges in the Pharaoh Hound, leading to acute hypoglycemia and irreversible liver cell destruction.
- Excessive sodium and synthetic flavor enhancers in processed pet food spike blood pressure levels in the Pharaoh Hound and accelerate the progression of chronic kidney disease.
- Low-quality corn, soy, and wheat gluten fillers trigger systemic inflammatory responses in the Pharaoh Hound, manifesting as persistent itchy skin rashes and compromised immune function.
Feeding guidelines
- Feed to maintain the naturally lean sighthound build, not to add weight.
- Fuel real stamina with about 1,600 calories for active adults.
- Add omega-3 to support joints and the short coat.
- Prioritise hydration during hot weather and activity.
Recommended brands
Health and wellness
Common issues, vaccinations, and daily care.
Healthcare and Preventative Guide for Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound is an elegant, athletic sighthound with high energy, needing 60 to 90 minutes of daily activity including safe chances to run. Its documented concerns include hip dysplasia, skin allergies, progressive retinal atrophy, and parasites, so joint, skin, and eye care matter. With its short coat and lean build, it feels cold easily and needs sun protection. In India, exercise it in cooler hours and provide a warm bed indoors. Expect around ₹600 to ₹1,200 monthly for preventive care and health monitoring for this graceful hound.
At a glance
- Energy level
- High
- Monthly cost
- ₹600 - ₹1,200
- Exercise
- 60 - 90 min/day
Hereditary and Common Health Conditions in Pharaoh Hound
Monitor breed-specific hereditary and common conditions with regular veterinary screening.
- Hip Dysplasia: The Pharaoh Hound can be predisposed to hip dysplasia, requiring regular veterinary monitoring and targeted preventive care protocols.
- Parasites: The Pharaoh Hound can be predisposed to parasites, requiring regular veterinary monitoring and targeted preventive care protocols.
- Skin Allergies: The Pharaoh Hound can be predisposed to skin allergies, requiring regular veterinary monitoring and targeted preventive care protocols.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): The Pharaoh Hound can be predisposed to progressive retinal atrophy (pra), requiring regular veterinary monitoring and targeted preventive care protocols.
Recommended activities
- Offer safe sprinting in a fenced area to satisfy its sighthound drive.
- Set up lure coursing or fast chasing games where possible.
- Combine daily walks with recall training in secure spaces.
- Provide gentle play that avoids hard impact on the joints.
- Use scent and puzzle games for indoor variety.
Signs of stress
- Stiffness or limping after running pointing to hip dysplasia.
- Scratching or red skin that suggests allergies.
- Bumping into objects or night time hesitancy hinting at vision loss.
- Shivering or seeking warmth, as this lean breed chills easily.
- Restlessness when it lacks a proper run.
Vaccination schedule
| Growth stage | Vaccines |
|---|---|
| Age 6-7 Weeks | DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza) and Bordetella (Kennel Cough) to establish protective immunity for the Pharaoh Hound |
| Age 9-10 Weeks | DHPP, Bordetella, and Leptospirosis to establish protective immunity for the Pharaoh Hound |
| Age 12-13 Weeks | DHPP, Leptospirosis, Canine Influenza, and Lyme Disease to establish protective immunity for the Pharaoh Hound |
| Age 15-17 Weeks | DHPP, Rabies, Canine Influenza, and Lyme Disease to establish protective immunity for the Pharaoh Hound |
General care tips
- Provide a warm bed and a coat in cooler weather.
- Monitor the skin and bathe gently to manage allergies.
- Keep parasite prevention consistent year round.
- Exercise in a secure area, as the strong prey drive risks chasing.
- Have the eyes checked periodically for retinal changes.
Senior care
- Replace sprints with gentle, steady walks.
- Add joint support and provide extra warmth for the lean body.
- Schedule eye exams to track retinal health.
- Offer a soft, cushioned bed for ageing joints.
Grooming
Coat care, hygiene, and shedding notes.
Simple grooming care for Pharaoh Hound
Pharaoh Hounds have a sleek short coat that sheds minimally and maintains itself with almost no effort. Their elegant lean frame and close-lying fur handle India's heat naturally given their ancient desert origins. Grooming focuses entirely on skin protection and health monitoring rather than coat management. Their thin delicate skin needs UV protection, and their large erect ears funnel dust inward. Monthly costs stay at ₹700 to ₹1,200 primarily for skin care and dental supplies.
At a glance
- Shedding level
- Low Shedding
- Monthly cost
- ₹700 - ₹1,200
Hygiene checklist
- Use a grooming mitt on the Pharaoh Hound every few days if the coat starts looking dull or dusty.
- Give the Pharaoh Hound a bath every three to four weeks, or sooner if a muddy walk or humid week leaves the coat smelling off.
- A weekly look at the ears helps the Pharaoh Hound avoid wax buildup, itchiness, and the small infections that can creep in quietly. A quick paw and belly check after active play also helps catch mud or ticks early.
- A regular nail trim matters for the Pharaoh Hound, especially if most of the time is spent indoors.
- Brush the teeth two to three times a week with dog-safe toothpaste, because dental issues are easier to prevent than fix.
Grooming benefits
- Reduces the amount of fur that ends up across the sofa and car seats.
- Lets the Pharaoh Hound stay comfortable even when the weather gets sticky or dusty.
- Helps you keep an eye on nails, ears, and paws without making the routine complicated.
- Makes home grooming feel quick enough that it actually gets done on time.
- Gives the coat a fresher look with only a small amount of effort.
Adopt and shop
Buying guidance, adoption guidance, and monthly costs.
Pharaoh Hound Adoption and Buying Guide
A Pharaoh Hound can be a wonderful fit when the home is ready for its size, coat and energy level. This breed tends to do best where there is enough room, enough time for exercise and a clear plan for feeding, training and vet care. With a price range of ?80,000 to ?1,50,000, the real question is not just what the dog costs today, but whether the household can support it well for 12 to 14 years.
At a glance
- Market price
- ₹80,000 - ₹1,50,000
General overview
- Make sure the upfront cost of ?80,000 to ?1,50,000 sits comfortably inside your budget before you move ahead.
- Check that your home and routine can support a medium breed dog that suits a independent house more naturally than a rushed setup.
- Keep the short to medium coat in mind, because coat care and climate comfort are part of the long-term picture.
- Ask yourself whether you are ready for a dog whose temperament will need structure and patient handling over a life of about 12 to 14 years.
Buying guidelines
- Ask for clear pedigree, age and lineage details so you know exactly what you are paying for in a Pharaoh Hound.
- Review vaccination, deworming and health records before you agree to the handover, not after.
- Visit the breeder or seller in person so you can see how the puppy is housed, handled and socialized.
- Make sure the puppy has been checked for common breed concerns and is ready to move into independent house living.
- If possible, get written support on health and early care so the first few weeks feel more manageable, especially for a short to medium coat and a temperament that leans active.
Adoption guidelines
- Check rescue groups and shelters first, because a good match can come from adoption rather than purchase.
- Ask for any medical notes, behaviour history and recent vet information so you understand the dog before bringing it home.
- Spend time with the dog in person if possible, because temperament and handling are easier to judge face to face than on paper.
- Prepare a calm first-week setup with food, water, bedding and a quiet corner, especially if the dog is adjusting to a new independent house environment.
- A short to medium coat and a personality that tends toward routine and companionship both benefit from a slow, patient start and a vet check soon after adoption.
Monthly expense summary
- Monthly care₹3,550 - ₹5,400
- Food₹2,250 - ₹3,000
- Grooming₹700 - ₹1,200
- Health₹600 - ₹1,200
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about the Pharaoh Hound.
What are the common health issues in the Pharaoh Hound?
The Pharaoh Hound can be prone to conditions such as Hip Dysplasia, Parasites, and Skin Allergies. Not every dog will develop these, but routine veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and a healthy weight go a long way in early detection and prevention.
How much activity does the Pharaoh Hound need?
Plan for about 60 to 90 minutes of activity each day for the Pharaoh Hound. This is an energetic breed, so a mix of walks, active play, and mental challenges works best to prevent boredom and restlessness.
Is the Pharaoh Hound suited to the Indian climate?
The Pharaoh Hound adapts reasonably well to most parts of India, being most comfortable around 10 to 24 degrees Celsius. Even so, provide shade and fresh water through the hottest months and avoid activity during the hottest part of the day. Basic heat precautions keep this dog healthy across Indian conditions.
What is the price of a Pharaoh Hound in India?
A Pharaoh Hound puppy in India typically costs ₹80,000 to ₹1,50,000, depending on lineage, breeder reputation, and city. Always choose an ethical breeder who shares health and vaccination records, and consider adoption as a rewarding alternative.
Does the Pharaoh Hound need a house with a yard?
The Pharaoh Hound is happiest with more room to move and ideally suits an independent house. Access to a secure outdoor space helps it burn off energy, though committed daily exercise can still make apartment life workable for this dog.
Does the Pharaoh Hound shed a lot?
The Pharaoh Hound has a shedding level described as low shedding. This makes grooming easier, though regular brushing still keeps the coat and skin healthy.
Is the Pharaoh Hound easy to train?
The Pharaoh Hound tends to be quick to learn thanks to its intelligent nature. Short, consistent sessions with positive reinforcement bring the best results, and early socialisation helps this dog grow into a well mannered companion.
What is the temperament of the Pharaoh Hound?
The Pharaoh Hound is known for being Athletic, Energetic, Intelligent, and Loyal. With a high energy level, this dog does best when its social and mental needs are met through regular interaction and enrichment. They are best suited to an independent house and settle in well when their daily routine is consistent.