Frequently Asked Questions

 

                                

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

Q:  Are Pharaoh Hounds good with children?

A:  Like many breeds, a Pharaoh Hound that has not been exposed to children, may be leery of the quick energy of a child.  On the other hand, a Pharaoh Hound raised in the company of children will quickly become your child's best friend and they will provide each other with hours of entertainment.  It should be remembered, however that the Pharaoh Hound is not a rough and tumble breed, like a Lab or Golden Retriever.

Q:  Can a Pharaoh Hound be taken off lead?

A:  Considering the fact that the Pharaoh Hound possesses a tremendous prey drive, it is not recommended they be let off lead, at least until such time as they have been trained to a reliable recall.  Even then, caution is advised.  You never know when they might catch sight or scent of something they just can't resist.

Q:  Do Pharaoh Hounds get along well with other animals?

A:  Bringing an adult dog into a home with other animals should be done carefully.  Normally, the Pharaoh Hound will adjust quickly to it's new surroundings.  Of course, the dog's history would play an important role in it's ability to live with other animals.  A puppy raised with other animals will accept and co-exist with just about anything, including cats.

Q:  Do Pharaoh Hounds shed?

A:  Pharaoh Hounds have very short, glossy coats which shed very little.  Many times it has been reported that people who suffer from allergies to dog hair, do not react to the Pharaoh Hound.

Q:  Do Pharaoh Hounds require much grooming?

A:  Due to their short coats, the Pharaoh Hound requires very little grooming.  An occasional bath, regular toenail trims, ear and teeth cleaning is about all that is required.  A good brushing will help keep the coat shiny and healthy.

Q:  Which makes the better pet ... a male or a female?

A:  Much depends on the role the dog is expected to play in your life.  The males often are a bit more laid back.  Both sexes are affectionate and responsive, although the females often tend to display more independence.

Q:  How long do Pharaoh Hounds live?

A:  The average life span for the breed is 12-14 years, although there have been some that have reached the age of 16 or better.

Q:  Do Pharaoh Hounds have any major health issues?

A:  Fortunately, the Pharaoh Hound is a hardy breed and is not prone to problems commonly seen in some breeds.  Of course, an isolated case of just about anything can occur, but is the exception rather than the rule.  Pharaoh Hound breeders have worked hard to maintain healthy animals.

Q:  Are Pharaoh Hounds at risk with anesthesia?

A:  Anesthesia is always a risk in any breed, but the Pharaoh Hounds are not as prone to problems as many of their sighthound cousins.  With the new generation of anesthesia commonly used in today's veterinary medicine, the risks are minimal.  Ask your veterinarian what type of anesthesia they are administering and discuss the risk factors.

Q:  Are the ears natural or are they cropped like a Dobermans?

A:  The Pharaoh Hound ears are natural.  They are born with their ears flat to their heads.  The ears normally begin to lift at about 4 weeks of age.

Q:  Do Pharaoh Hounds come in any other color except brown?

A:  Acceptable color for Pharaoh Hounds ranges from tan through chestnut only.  A white tail tip is strongly desired, although not required.  They are allowed some white on the chest and toes.  A small, white snip on the foreface is also allowed.  Any white on the back of the neck or on the body is a disqualification.  To view the AKC breed standard at the AKC website  or visit the PHCA's Illustrated Guide To The Standard.

Q:  Do Pharaoh Hounds really blush?

A:  Definitely!  When excited, their noses and the inside of the ears turn a rosy pink color.  It is also common for them to "smile", although not all of them do.