Pharaoh Hound

The Pharaoh Hound is the national hound of Malta — a lithe, amber-eyed hunting dog that famously "blushes", its nose and ears flushing rose when it is happy or excited.

History

Despite a name and a look that recall ancient Egypt, it is a Maltese breed, known there as the Kelb tal-Fenek — the "rabbit dog" — bred to hunt rabbit over rough terrain by sight, scent and hearing together. Its build has stayed close to that working purpose.

Temperament

The breed is known for being intelligent, playful and affectionate with its family while aloof with strangers, and independent in the way of a hunting hound. It is sensitive and does not suit harsh handling.

Care and training

It needs regular chances to run in a safe, enclosed space, along with patient, gentle training. The short coat is easy to keep, but the lean build feels the cold.

Health

The breed is generally very healthy with few inherited problems; its main consideration is a sensitivity to some anaesthetics that comes with a lean, low-fat build. These are patterns for the breed rather than a verdict on one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.