Pharaoh Hound (Kibbutz Hound / Rabbit Hound)
Pharaoh Hound
Kibbutz Hound / Rabbit Hound
Basic Information
- Category: Pet Dog
- Origin: Egypt
- Body Type: Large
- Height: 53-63cm
- Hair Length: Short-haired
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
Ratings
| Trainability | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Affection Level | ⭐️⭐️ |
| Barking Level | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Shedding Level | ⭐️⭐️ |
Breed Introduction
The Pharaoh Hound, also known as Kibbutz Hound or Rabbit Hound, originated in Malta around 1000 BC. Its exceptional hunting skills and the tacit relationship with humans are invaluable treasures for our understanding and research into the history of dogs. Alert and active, it is a loyal and keen hunting dog with excellent vision and smell.
The Pharaoh Hound is one of the oldest dog breeds, generally believed to have originated in Egypt. As far back as four thousand years ago, a dog breed resembling it appeared in ancient Egyptian paintings, and traces of them can also be found in ancient Egyptian literature and even hieroglyphics. They were once favored by the ancient Egyptian kings. King Tutankhamun of Egypt in the 14th century BC favored a Pharaoh Hound, and even after the dog died, he ordered that his beloved dog be wrapped in fine linen, anointed with perfumes, and placed in the coffin so that it could achieve glory before the gods. One can imagine the esteemed position of the Pharaoh Hound at that time.
Later, the Pharaoh Hound was brought to Malta by Phoenician traders, and although it has undergone over two thousand years of breeding and evolution, this breed still retains its original traits and the appearance of its Egyptian ancestors. In Malta, the Pharaoh Hound became skilled at hunting rabbits, which is why they are also known as Rabbit Hounds. In 1979, the Maltese government declared this breed to be the national dog and issued commemorative silver coins bearing its likeness. It was introduced to the UK in 1968, and in 1983, the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized it.
One of the notable features of the Pharaoh Hound is its beautiful amber-colored eyes; when they are happy or excited, their nose and ears turn a deep rose color. No wonder they were described in a letter from ancient Egypt as having a glow on their faces, like a god. With their speed, alertness, agility, and keen eyesight and sense of smell, Pharaoh Hounds are excellent hunting dogs.
