Hound Dog Breeds

Hound Dogs

The Hound Group is a name used by most kennel clubs to describe hound dogs. This list of hound dogs share the common trait of being used for hunting. Hound dogs use very strong scenting powers to follow trails and demonstrate great stamina as they run down their quarry. Popular hound dogs include the Bassett Hound and the Bloodhound.

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Featured Hounds

Hound Dogs | Pharaoh Hound

Introduction

The Pharaoh Hound, also known as the Kelb tal-Fenek or the Pharaoh Dog, is a breed in the Hound Dog Group. This breed has the distinction of being one of the oldest known domesticated dogs in recorded history, and they are immediately recognizable by their very unique features. The Pharaoh Hound was AKC approved in 1983.

The average Pharaoh Hound stands 21 to 25 inches high at the shoulders and weighs between 45 and 55 pounds. Their very short coat requires minimal grooming, and a quick brush will help to control any shedding.

Temperament

The lean, agile, and athletic Pharaoh Hound dog is very alert, affectionate, loyal, and this breed loves to play with children. The Pharaoh Hound is naturally aloof towards strangers, but they are never aggressive or shy. This dog is very calm, they do not bark much, and they are easy to train.

Early socialization is a must for this hound dog though to ensure that their natural personality develops properly, and consistent training is needed or they can try to become dominant over other people and dogs. These hound will get along well with other dogs if socialized properly, but due to their strong chasing instincts they should be in a canine only household.

The Pharaoh Hound is not a high energy breed, but they do require regular exercise. This breed also needs plenty of mental stimulation, and pet owners may want to enroll their Pharaoh in agility or competition classes to help their Pharaoh excel and flourish mentally and physically.

The Pharaoh hound dog should never be left alone to roam due to their tracking and hunting instincts, and they can jump over high fences so pet owners need to ensure their hound cannot escape out of the back yard.

Health

The life expectancy of this hound dog is between 11 and 14 years, and their main health risks are sensitivities to insecticides, some medicines, and cold temperatures.

History

The Pharaoh Hound was well documented in Egyptian records as far back as 3000 B.C. The dog was a favorite in Egyptian households due to their excellent hunting instincts and their companionable nature. From Egypt the hound was transported to Malta through trading ports, and on the Island of Malta the breed’s pure bloodlines were preserved for thousands of years. Today, the Pharaoh Hound is still the national dog of Malta.