Origin
Pharaoh Hounds are thought to be one of the oldest breeds on the planet. They are elegant, noble dogs that over the ages have found their way into the hearts and homes of many people throughout the world thanks to their distinctive looks, kind and loyal natures. Pharaoh Hounds, true to their breeding are never happier than when they are kept busy and as such they are not the best choice for first time owners because they need to be trained and handled by someone who is familiar with the needs of this type of energetic hound. They thrive in households where one person usually stays at home when everyone else is out and they make great companions and family pets for people who boast large, secure back gardens.
The Pharaoh Hound is thought to be one of the oldest domesticated breeds in the world with similar hounds having been around since the Ancient Egyptians. However, the exact origins of the breed remain a bit of a mystery. With this said, artefacts have been found in Pharaoh's tombs and hieroglyphs on walls show a similar type of hound that could well be the Pharaoh's Hounds ancestor.
In ancient times, these hounds were used to hunt small game, but they were also the loyal companions of Pharaohs. Some people believe these hounds were introduced to Malta by the Phoenicians when they occupied the island in 1000 BC. With this said, there is some evidence of the breed originating in Malta and that they were taken to Egypt by travellers and traders in ancient times. Today, the Pharaoh Hound is Malta's national dog and are known as the Kelb Tal-Fenek, which literally translated means 'Dog of the rabbit'.
The Pharaoh Hound first appeared here in the UK in the 1930's, but the breed was not recognised by The Kennel Club until the 1960's. Today, anyone hoping to share their homes with one of these proud and noble dogs might find it hard to find a breeder because very few puppies are registered every year with the kennel club here in the UK.
