What is a Pharaoh Hound?

A Pharaoh hound is a medium-sized sighthound--a group of dogs which includes the Greyhound, Borzoi, Irish Wolfhound, Whippet, Afghan Hound, Saluki, and others. These dogs were bred to hunt by sight, coursing game in open areas. Their natural instinct for hunting 'critters' like moles, squirrels, chipmunks, birds, etc,  is extremely high which is the main reason that sighthounds, in general, must be kept on leash when outside a fenced yard. 

Where can I get a Pharaoh Hound?

There are a variety of Pharaoh hound breeders worldwide.  I strongly discourage anyone from purchasing a Pharaoh Hound through a pet store or other commercial breeder.  These are fronts for puppy mills.   How do you distinguish a reputable breeder from a puppy mill/commercial breeder/backyard breeder?   Please click the following link:    A comparison of the traits of a responsible breeder vs backyard/puppy mill breeder

It is best if you contact a reputable breeder and ask lots of questions (use the link above to help formulate your questions).  Most reputable breeders will not plan a litter until the absolute best stud dog has been selected for the breeder's high quality female.  [In general, breeder's who own both male and female could be a backyard breeder or puppy mill.]  Then the reputable breeder will begin a list of prospective puppy owners that they believe would be great new owners for their puppies.  Once that list is long enough with prospective puppy owners, the breeder will then decide to do the breeding.

Note: Many prospective puppy owners wait months to years to get a puppy.  It is best to decide on a breeder that you can work with (as most reputable breeders will want to be involved in the good, the bad and the ugly with the puppy as it ages), then ask more questions, then get placed on the waiting list for a puppy if you are sure you want to own (or be owned) by a Pharaoh Hound.  Often times, many reputable breeders will request a deposit as it gets close to the breeding.  Being placed on the waiting list does not guarantee you a puppy as one can not control the number of puppies born or the genders of the puppies if you want a specific gender.

How can I contact someone from Pharaoh Hound Rescue?

On occasion a Pharaoh hound comes into rescue.  Pharaoh hound rescue is done by members of the Pharaoh Hound Club of America.   Check the website at http://www.ph-club.org/rescue.htm  for a list of national rescue volunteers.  It is extremely rare for a Pharaoh Hound puppy to come into rescue, generally they are older more mature hounds.

Should I get a male or a female Pharaoh Hound?

Both sexes make excellent companions. Males tend to be slightly more lovey-dovey and enjoy repetitive play. Females can be a little more complex and strong-willed, and tend to be a bit more intelligent. Males tend to be taller and slightly heavier than females.

What about contracts?

Most reputable breeders sell their puppies on contracts.  The contract serves to define the description of the purchase and contains specific language outlining the breeder's responsibility to the purchaser as well as what is required of the purchaser in providing a home for the pup.  The contract should also include a breeder's guarantee for the health of the puppy.  Contracts that require the puppy purchaser to breed in the future should be avoided. You should NOT BE REQUIRED to breed your dog!!! Breeding a litter of puppies should be a carefully planned event. It requires an enormous commitment of energy and time, not to mention the responsibility of finding suitable homes for the puppies and being responsible for those puppies for their entire lives.  Breeders who require you to breed your dog and then require a "puppy back" are operating a self-serving "puppy pyramid scheme" and encouraging backyard breeders who have no desire to improve and protect the breed.  Avoid these breeders.

All CharmedWons puppies are sold with a contract and a health guarantee, no exceptions!!!

What are co-ownerships?

My intent in co-ownership is not to interfere in the home life of the puppies or the total integration into their new owner's homes. I view co-ownership as a way to mentor and assist those people new to Pharaoh hounds, new to the activities we do with our Pharaoh hounds and also to retain a 'guardianship' of these animals which I chose to produce in my breeding program. Under the present regulations of the AKC, co-ownership is the only avenue I have. The optimum arrangements are that both breeder and co-owners are in agreement and work totally in concert and all is spelled out ahead of time before the puppy leaves the breeder's house.  My co-ownerships do NOT require you to breed your Pharaoh hound if you so choose not to.  That will always be your decision. Co-ownerships that require you to breed your dog and then require a "puppy back" are operating a self-serving "puppy pyramid scheme" and encouraging backyard breeders who have no desire to improve and protect the breed.  Avoid these breeders.

How should I care for my Pharaoh Hound?

Pharaoh Hounds, like other dogs, require a good quality diet and plenty of fresh water. Grooming is minimal -- cut their nails regularly, bathe as needed, and keep them free of parasites. They are not well-adapted for living in a kennel or as outside dogs. Their coats do not provide the insulation for them to withstand prolonged periods of exposure to the cold.  They need soft bedding on which to sleep, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care. Pharaoh Hounds (and dogs in general) require you to keep them safe, so the most important thing you can do is provide them with a safe environment.  In most cases, this means a fenced yard (5-6' high is recommended). Invisible fences are not recommended as they will not contain a pharaoh hound (or dog in general) who is chasing prey.  Invisible fences also 'punish' a dog for attempting to return home.  Puppies can be chewers, so crating is recommended when you are not able to supervise their activities.  Obedience training based on positive motivational techniques will make your Pharaoh Hound a better canine citizen.

What kind of activities can I do with my companion Pharaoh Hound?

Many enjoyable competitive sports are open to Pharaoh Hounds such as lure coursing, straight racing, and oval track racing. In these events, a temporary track and lure system is set up. The lure is usually a white plastic trash bag. All of these events are purely for sport, and are put on for the enjoyment of the dogs and their owners. Top competitors win ribbons and points towards running titles. No betting is allowed. Thus, win or lose, every dog goes home to be "king of the couch".

With new methods of motivational obedience training being used, Pharaoh Hounds are becoming successful obedience and agility dogs. Some have even tried herding, flyball and tracking. All of the above activities are open to Pharaoh Hounds including those that are spayed or neutered. For racing and coursing, your Pharaoh Hound must not have any breed disqualifications, such as white on the side or back (see breed standard). The other type of activity that Pharaoh hounds participate in is the show ring, but to be successful at this sport, you must purchase a puppy who is considered by its breeder to be show quality and is kept intact (not spayed or neutered).

What types of health problems do Pharaoh Hounds have?

Given proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care, many Pharaoh Hounds live for 10-13 years. As a whole, the breed is generally healthy.  Some of the health issues with Pharaoh hounds have been reported to be allergies, hypothyroidism and loose patellas (kneecaps).  The incidence of hip dysplasia is very low in Pharaoh Hounds.  When looking to acquire a Pharaoh Hound, you should ask about health testing. Certifications from the breeders can be provided or found on the OFA page. There is never a reason for your prospective puppies parents to be bred without health clearances.

Will I be able to keep my Pharaoh Hound off the furniture?

Probably not!. They love the sofa and will gladly if allowed, keep you company in bed at night. Luckily for them and for you, it is easy to keep your Pharaoh hound clean and free of parasites so that he will be a welcome guest on your furniture. You can also put a sheet or throw over the "dog chair" and remove it when company comes.

Do Pharaoh Hound bark a lot?

In general, yes.  So this may not be the perfect dog for apartment or condominium living.   My dogs bark the most when they see prey (real or artificial) out in the backyard or at a field trial.  They also bark alerts for strangers at the door.