The 60-second version of the Pharaoh Hound: what they're like, what they need, and whether one would suit your home — written for Australian owners.
Pharaoh Hound at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed group | Hound |
| Weight | 18–27 kg |
| Lifespan | 11–14 years |
| Energy | High — sprint and play |
| Coat | Short, glossy tan |
| Grooming | Minimal |
| Shedding | Low |
| Good with kids | Yes — playful and gentle |
| Puppy price (AU) | $2,500–$4,000 |
| Insurance (AU) | ~$50–$85/month |
Living with a Pharaoh Hound in Australia
The Pharaoh Hound looks like it stepped off an Egyptian tomb painting, and the resemblance is more than cosmetic — this is one of the oldest domesticated dog types. Their party tricks are famous: they "blush" (nose and ears flush pink when excited) and they smile. At home they’re affectionate goofballs; outside, they’re sighthounds with relentless prey drive. In Australia they’re rare, low-maintenance and heat-loving — one of the few breeds that finds summer agreeable.
Health watch-outs
A notably healthy, low-maintenance breed:
- Generally robust — few inherited problems in well-bred lines.
- Sighthound anaesthesia sensitivity — worth a vet conversation.
- Cold sensitivity — that thin coat means winter jumpers in the southern states.
Budget at a glance
- Puppy price: typically $2,500–$4,000 from a registered breeder — much lower offers are often scams.
- Insurance: around $50–$85/month — see our pet insurance cost guide for what shapes premiums.
- Among the cheapest pedigrees to keep — minimal grooming, robust health.
Is a Pharaoh Hound right for you?
Great fit if you… ✅
- Active homes wanting a low-maintenance athlete
- Warm-climate Australians
- Sighthound lovers after a more trainable option
Think twice if… ⚠️
- Prey drive means secure fences and no off-leash near wildlife
- Rare in Australia — waitlists are the norm
Keep exploring
🍖 Best food: See our dog food picks — chosen for Australian conditions and budgets
🛡️ Insurance: What pet insurance costs in Australia — breed-by-breed premium guidance