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Quote from an Owner:  The Kelb Tal-Fenek is a very sociable breed and consequently require a lot of companionship - be it that of humans or other dogs. The Kelb Tal-Fenek is not a breed suited to someone who has little time. They also require a fair amount of exercise, and even a large well-fenced area does not exempt owners from taking out their dog for long walks and to offer him the opportunity for off-lead exercise as often as possible. On the plus side, a Kelb Tal-Fenek could make a wonderful companion. This breed is a dog of medium size, and therefore easily handled. He is playful, highly inquisitive and full of life. He is an affectionate companion who evokes attention, and loves his owner to death. The Kelb Tal-Fenek is very friendly with children. One reason for this might be the fact that it is usually the farmer's children, who are responsible for grooming and feeding the dogs on Maltese farms.                 - Peter Gatt, Malta

 

AKC Height: Dogs 23 inches - 25 inches. Bitches 21 inches - 24 inches. Allover balance must be maintained. Length of body from breast to haunch bone slightly longer than height of withers to ground. Lithe. Coat: Shorthaired  Color: Ranging from tan/rich, tan/chestnut with white markings allowed as follows: White tip on tail strongly desired. White on chest (called "the Star"). White on toes and slim white snip on center line of face permissible. Flecking or other white undesirable.

Basic Requirements: The Kelb Tal-Fenek has a short coat, which does not require too much attention. A light weekly brushing will suffice. He also does not shed too much hair, and therefore is not a nuisance in the home. He does not have a strong 'doggy' odor due to his short coat. Given an area which he can call his own, the Kelb Tal-Fenek will take the opportunity for a long, healthy sleep after he has enjoyed his daily exercise.

 

Temperament: The Kelb Tal-Fenek is highly intelligent. Like most hounds he is difficult to train, but many have been successful in obedience competitions. He does however have a mind of his own. Owners should be aware of this and must always take up the dominant position with their dogs. Happy, energetic and inquisitive are terms  often  used  to describe  the breed.  The Kelb Tal-Fenek is somewhat aloof of strangers but having made the initial assessment they are extremely lovable. The Kelb Tal-Fenek is never aggressive.

 

Health: (Health dictionary link - click here)       The Kelb Tal-Fenek is considered to be one of the most healthy breeds. We suggest eye and general health checks before breeding any dog.

Myths Unfortunately, one of the strongest myths around is that the Kelb Tal-Fenek is of Egyptian origin. This cannot be further from the truth. It is ridiculous to take a simple similarity in appearance to the depictions on Egyptian toombs as a reason to justify the theory of the Egyptian origin. The Kelb Tal-Fenek is of Maltese Origin. It has lived in Malta since time immemorial. The Kelb Tal-Fenek is an indigenous breed of Mediterranean hounds from the Maltese Islands. The misleading name 'Pharaoh Hound' is a creation by British fanciers from the 1960'ties. There is also proof that the Kelb Tal-Fenek was exported from Malta into Egypt as far back as 100 -200 B.C.   ~ Peter Gatt, Malta

Rescue / Pharaoh Hound breeders

Pharaoh Hound Club of America

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