1. The Origin Story
If you’ve ever looked at ancient Egyptian tomb friezes, you’ve probably seen those sleek, jackal-like dogs standing beside Pharaohs. Those images depict the ancestors of this incredible breed. They look like they stepped right out of a 4,400-year-old painting of the god Anubis, right? That’s because the Pharaoh Hound we know today was actually preserved on the island of Malta. Phoenician traders brought them there thousands of years ago, and because of the island’s isolation, the breed remained virtually unchanged. It wasn’t until 1983 that they were officially recognized in the AKC Hound Group. They remain quite rare today because breeders are incredibly protective of their lineage and their deep Maltese roots. There are waiting lists for potential owners wanting to bring one of these beauties home.
2. The Look
There is an effortless elegance to a Pharaoh Hound. They are medium-sized athletes, built with a lithe power that tells you immediately they were born to run. Their smooth coat is a stunning, glossy tan or chestnut that feels like silk. It provides a stark contrast to the lean muscle underneath, which is subtle until you see them in action. Their magnificent ears are naturally erect and those intense amber eyes seem to see right through you.
But the real reason people fall in love with them—the blush and the smile. When a Pharaoh Hound gets excited, happy, or a little embarrassed, their ears and nose turn a deep, rosy pink. It’s one of the most endearing sights in the canine world; they literally wear their hearts on their noses! And if that’s not enough, they love to show off their pearly-whites, but it’s not aggression. That toothy grin pairs adorably with the blush to create a unique and memorable expression of joy.
3. The Personality
Living with a Pharaoh Hound is a bit of a balancing act. This high-energy sighthound has an upgraded “Max Zoomies” mode that’s triggered by squirrels, leaves and everything in between. However, they are also known to be the world’s biggest fans of a soft sofa and a warm blanket. Independent and exceptionally intelligent, they need a job to do and plenty of space to stretch those long legs.
This is exactly the kind of challenge we look forward to at Zoomies. We know what it takes for a Pharaoh Hound to be that calm, “couch-potato” companion at the end of the day. We handle the high-intensity sighthound energy and the mental stimulation befitting a Pharoah. You get to enjoy the relaxed, blushing best friend who is ready for some serious snuggle time.
