Pharaoh hound is one of the oldest breeds of dogs. Pharaoh hounds originated in ancient Egypt, where they were used for hunting antelope and other game. Their likenesses have been found on walls of the tomb of Pharaoh Antefa II, dating to 2300 B.C. About 1500 B.C., the Phoenicians brought the breed to the island of Malta, where it survived into modern times. The breed was introduced into the United States in the 1950’s.
Pharaoh hounds are sleek dogs that stand from 21 to 25 inches (53 to 64 centimeters) high at the shoulder and weigh from 35 to 50 pounds (16 to 23 kilograms). Their short, flat, glossy coat is a rich tan. Pharaoh hounds have white toes and a starlike white marking on the chest. The tip of their whiplike tail is also white, and many of the dogs have a white line up the center of the face. Pharaoh hounds “blush” when excited—that is, their nose and their erect ears change from the normal flesh color to a deep rose. Their eyes are an unusual amber color. Pharaoh hounds hunt by both sight and scent. They move swiftly and gracefully, and their bite is powerful.
