Pharaoh Hound
Price range: $1,500-$2,500
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, patella luxation, eye disorders
Additional expenses: Six-foot-high fenced yard
The Pharaoh Hound is a tall, slender dog that’s happiest as a companion animal. Their short coats require little grooming, but regular attention must be paid to their ears, and their nails should be kept short. Regular exercise should include two 15-20 minute running sessions or leashed walks each day.
While they are easy to train and eager to please, they find it difficult, if not impossible, to overcome their instincts and reliably come on command; they should not be trusted off-leash unless in a well-contained area. They enjoy canine sports such as agility and lure coursing, and are good therapy dogs.
Not surprisingly, the Pharaoh Hound originated in ancient Egypt. The Phoenicians brought dogs throughout the ancient world, even to Britain. It is believed they brought the Pharaoh to Malta, where they were used to hunt rabbits. The breed has changed little over thousands of years and they look much the same as they do in reliefs found in ancient Egyptian tombs.