Several weeks ago, I wrote about an unusual breed called the Xoloizquintli. This week, the spotlight shines on another unusual breed, the Pharaoh Hound. This breed is one of the oldest known, going back at least to 3,000 BC, and is thought to have originated in Egypt as there are numerous ancient artifacts showing a dog that is an obvious ancestor of the Pharaoh Hound.

This breed belongs to a group known as ‘sighthounds’ along with Afghan Hounds, Irish Wolfhounds, Scottish Deerhounds, and Greyhounds. Like these other breeds, this dog is fast, sleek, and excels at chasing a moving target (lure coursing, squirrel, rabbit, etc.), which is why these dogs should not be let off leash or left unattended unless they’re in an area with a very high fence. (This dog can jump REALLY high to get out of a space.) They also cannot be totally trusted around smaller non-canine animals due to a high prey drive; however, the Pharaoh Hound can be a calm companion with adequate exercise. This breed is generally good with children and other dogs provided they are well-socialized at an early age. Pharaohs are adept at picking up on their owners’ emotions, so a nervous owner equals a nervous, timid dog.

The Pharaoh Hound is a sleek, elegant-looking breed, with a smooth, low-maintenance coat that only requires brushing with a rubber brush once a week. Height ranges from 23 to 25 inches for males and 21 to 24 inches for females and weight ranges from 45 to 55 lbs. This breed gets cold easily and prefers warmer temperatures. so a sweater or coat in winter is a must. But the most unusual trait of the Pharaoh Hound is this is the only breed that blushes. (You heard me correctly.) When a Pharaoh Hound is happy or excited, its nose and the tips of its ears will glow a deep rosy pink.

Think this unusual breed might fit with you and your family? Find out more about the Pharaoh Hound at www.dogbreedinfo.com.