 The Pharaoh Hound is said to be the oldest domesticated dog in recorded history, dating back some 5,000 years. In their native Egypt, Pharoah Hounds were seen as representatives of the Ancient Gods by the original Egyptians who used them as guard dogs and faithful companions. They were also used to hunt gazelle and other small game using both sight and smell, making them the ultimate in sighthounds. Like the greyhound, the also possess considerable speed and stamina.
Although the first Pharoah Hound imported into England was as late as the 1930s, it is believed that Phoenician traders took these dogs with them when they settled on Malta some 2,000 years ago, and the Pharoah Hound is now the national dog of Malta where it is primarily used for rabbit hunting.
The Pharaoh Hound (a member of the Hound group of dogs) is a medium-sized, elegant and graceful dog with a short, easily manageable coat. They possess considerable intelligence and accordingly are considered to be independent and somewhat aloof, although properly handled can be easy-going gentle, affectionate and fun-loving dogs who are excellent with children and extremely playful.
The Pharaoh Hound is an unusual dog in a number of respects. Pharaoh Hounds actually 'blush' when they are excited, their ears and nose turning bright red much as do humans when they are embarrassed. Equally, they possess no doggy odour and, with only minimum hair loss, require only minimal grooming. |
