Welcome to the wonderful world of Egyptian dog breeds! These pups may hail from the land of Pharaohs and pyramids, but they’ve got a whole lot of personality and love to give.
From the playful and energetic Pharaoh Hound to the regal and dignified Saluki, there’s a breed for every dog lover.
These beautiful, intelligent, and loyal pups have a long history in the land of Pharaohs and pyramids, and they’re sure to steal your heart with their playful personalities and loving nature.
These breeds are prized for their beauty, grace, and athleticism and have played important roles in Egyptian culture and history.
Overall, Egyptian dog breeds are great for those who appreciate their unique history and beauty.
Our Top 5 Egyptian Dog Breeds
| Family Closeness | Children Friendly | Social | Dogginess Rating | |
| Pharaoh Hound | Known to be affectionate and loyal, and they thrive on attention and interaction with their families. | Very affectionate with children that know how to approach and touch dogs. | They generally get along with other dogs, although some are aggressive toward dogs of the same gender. | 3.5/5 |
| Ibizan Hound | Their close bond with their owners often results in them following them around the house in search of attention and affection from them. | As playful and silly as Ibizans are, they are excellent with children. | In addition to enjoying the company of other dogs, Ibizans can also learn to get along with cats if they are introduced to them at a young age. | 3/5 |
| Basenji | They love nothing more than snuggling up with their favorite humans and bond closely with them. | They aren’t known for being especially fond of children, but with their high energy level, they can be good companions for older children. | They should not be trusted around cats or other small animals unless they are raised with them and recognize them as family members. | 3.5/5 |
| Saluki | It is well known that they have strong bonds with their family and that they tend to stay near their owners. | They are perfect for older children but aren’t recommended for families with young children. | They are very friendly towards other dogs, but prefer sighthounds. | 4.5/5 |
| Armant | Involvement in the family’s life is important to these affectionate dogs. | They love children and enjoy playing with them, but if they are not properly educated and socialized, they may develop some herding behaviors. | They are typically good with other animals because they were bred to work as farm dogs. They get along nicely with cats and other dogs. | 3.5/5 |
1. Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound is a breed that is native to the island of Malta. But it has a long history in ancient Egypt where it was prized for its hunting abilities.
This is one of the Egyptian dog breeds known for its striking appearance. It has a sleek and muscular build, long legs, and a distinctive reddish-brown coat.
But don’t let their regal looks fool you. Pharaoh Hounds are energetic and playful, and they love nothing more than to run and play. A true representative of the Egyptian dog breeds.
They’re also highly intelligent and can be trained to do a variety of tasks, from hunting to obedience work.
The Pharaoh Hound is a social and affectionate breed that loves to be around its family and participate in activities with them.
Their playful and energetic personalities are sure to bring joy and laughter to any household.
They are generally good with children and other pets as long as they are socialized at a young age and taught to respect boundaries.
While Pharaoh Hounds are generally friendly and outgoing, they can be somewhat reserved with strangers, especially if they are not properly socialized.
These pups are known for their sleek and muscular build, with long, slender legs that give them a graceful and elegant appearance.
Their coat is short, smooth, and shiny, and it comes in a variety of colors, including rich reds, golden fawns, and warm tans.
And let’s not forget about their signature “blush” – a pinkish-red color on the ears, nose, and lips that becomes more pronounced when the dog is excited or happy.
They have large, almond-shaped eyes that are amber or brown in color and a long, narrow head with a long, slightly curved muzzle and high-set ears that stand upright when the dog is alert.
They have a long, thin tail that is typically carried high and held straight or slightly curved, and they have a powerful, graceful gait that is well-suited for running and hunting.
These pups are known for their high energy levels and playful personalities, and they thrive on activity and interaction with their families.
Pharaoh Hounds are also highly social and affectionate, and they love nothing more than to cuddle up with their humans and show them some love.
Despite their energetic and playful nature, Pharaoh Hounds are also known to be independent and strong-willed.
They can be stubborn at times, and they need owners who are firm but fair and who are willing to put in the time and effort to train and socialize them properly.
Things To Keep In Mind
Health
While these pups are generally healthy and hardy, there are a few things to watch out for, so it’s always a good idea to work with a reputable breeder and keep an eye on your Pharaoh Hound’s health.
One health issue that Pharaoh Hounds are known to be prone to is hip dysplasia, a condition in which the hip joint doesn’t develop properly.
Pharaoh Hounds are also prone to certain eye conditions, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal dysplasia.
Finally, Pharaoh Hounds are also prone to certain skin conditions, such as allergies, dermatitis, and mange.
These conditions can be managed with medications and proper care, and it’s important to work with a veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment.
National Breed Club’s advised health examinations:
- Patella Evaluation
- Hip Evaluation
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Grooming
First and foremost, Pharaoh Hounds have a short, smooth coat that is easy to care for. They don’t shed a lot, but they do shed seasonally, so you’ll want to brush them regularly to help remove dead hair and keep their coat looking shiny and healthy.
In terms of bathing, Pharaoh Hounds don’t require frequent baths – once every few months is usually sufficient unless they get particularly dirty or smelly.
Pharaoh Hounds also need regular nail trims to keep their nails from getting too long.
Overall, they are a low-maintenance breed.
Exercise
These pups are known for their high energy levels and athletic build, and they require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Pharaoh Hounds are highly energetic and need plenty of physical and mental stimulation, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of opportunities to run, play, and explore.
This can include activities like walks, runs, hikes, and games of fetch.
Training
Pharaoh Hounds are highly intelligent and learn quickly, so it’s important to start training and socialization early.
This can include basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” as well as house training and crate training.
Pharaoh Hounds are also highly energetic and athletic, and they excel in activities like obedience, agility, and lure coursing, so there are plenty of opportunities to get your Pharaoh Hound involved in training and activities that will keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Nutrition
Pharaoh Hounds are a medium to large breed, and they have a high energy level, so they require a diet that is high in quality protein to support their athletic build and active lifestyle.
Look for a diet that is formulated for large breed dogs that include high-quality sources of protein, like chicken, turkey, or fish.
It’s also a good idea to choose a diet that balances carbohydrates, fats, and other nutrients to support your Pharaoh Hound’s overall health and well-being.
It’s a good idea to feed your Pharaoh Hound two to three times per day, depending on their age, size, and activity level.
2. Ibizan Hound
This is one of the Egyptian dog breeds, also known as the Podenco Ibicenco, which hails from the beautiful island of Ibiza off the coast of Spain.
This breed is native to ancient Egypt and apparently, the Phoenicians brought it to the island in the VII century b.c.
According to the legend, these creatures are sacred and they are directly related to the Egyptian god Anubis.
With their long, lean bodies and big, floppy ears, these hounds are not only a sight to behold, but they’re also full of energy and ready to play.
But don’t let their playful nature fool you – these hounds are also intelligent and independent, making them great problem-solvers and capable of learning new tricks and commands.
They have a strong prey drive and were originally bred for hunting, so they’ll need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Overall, the Ibizan Hound is a lovable, energetic, and intelligent breed that is sure to bring joy and playfulness to any household.
These pups are known for their close bond with their human families and will often follow their owners around the house, seeking out attention and affection.
In fact, the Ibizan Hound is so devoted to its family that it has been known to become anxious or depressed if left alone for long periods of time.
So, if you’re considering adopting an Ibizan Hound, it’s important to make sure that someone will be home with them most of the time.
These charming canines are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, and they love nothing more than making new friends – both human and canine.
That being said, it’s important to properly socialize your Ibizan Hound from a young age to ensure that they grow up to be confident and well-adjusted.
With their long, lean bodies, big floppy ears, and sleek coats, these hounds are truly a sight to behold.
They have a long, lean body with a deep chest and strong, muscular legs, which give them the ability to run and jump with ease.
Their head is long and narrow with a strong jaw and long, pointed ears that flop down towards their cheeks.
They have a short, smooth coat that comes in various colors, including white, red, fawn, and shades of brindle.
These dogs are known for their playful and curious nature, and they’ll happily spend hours running, playing, and exploring their surroundings.
The Ibizan Hound is a lovable, energetic, and intelligent breed that is sure to bring joy and playfulness to any household.
So, if you’re ready to bring some fun and laughter into your life, the Ibizan Hound just might be the perfect fit for you!
Things To Keep In Mind
Health
While these pups are generally healthy and hardy, they can be prone to certain conditions that it’s important to be aware of.
One health issue that is commonly seen in the Ibizan Hound is hip dysplasia, which is a condition where the hip joint is not properly formed.
Another health issue to be aware of is hypothyroidism, which is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This can cause weight gain, lethargy, and other health problems.
It’s important to work with your veterinarian to monitor your Ibizan Hound’s health and address any issues that may arise.
National Breed Club’s advised health examinations:
- Hip Evaluation
- Thyroid Evaluation
- BAER Testing
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Grooming
One of the great things about the Ibizan Hound is that they have a short, smooth coat that is relatively easy to groom.
A weekly brushing and an occasional bath should do the trick to keep their coat looking clean and shiny.
It’s also important to take care of their ears, as the Ibizan Hound’s long, floppy ears can be prone to infections if not properly cared for.
Exercise
These energetic pups will need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep them at their best, so be prepared to give them plenty of opportunities to run, play, and explore.
One of the great things about the Ibizan Hound is that they are a breed that loves to run and play.
They have a strong prey drive and were originally bred for hunting, so they’ll need plenty of opportunities to run and explore.
In addition to daily walks and runs, the Ibizan Hound will also benefit from activities such as fetch, agility, and obedience training.
Training
One of the keys to training an Ibizan Hound is to start early and be consistent. These pups are smart and will quickly learn what is expected of them, but they can also be stubborn at times, so it’s important to be patient and persistent.
It’s also important to use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior.
The Ibizan Hound is a breed that responds well to rewards and will be more likely to repeat behaviors that are reinforced with treats or praise.
Nutrition
Two to three cups of high-quality dry food are recommended daily, divided into two meals.
One of the keys to feeding an Ibizan Hound is to choose a food that is formulated specifically for their size and activity level.
These dogs are medium to large in size and are known for their active and energetic nature, so they’ll need a food that provides them with the protein, fat, and other nutrients they need to support their bodies.
It’s also important to pay attention to portion sizes and avoid overfeeding.
3. Basenji
Originally hailing from central Africa, the Basenji is one of the Egyptian dog breeds known for its intelligence, independence, and athleticism.
These pups are always on the go and love to play, whether it’s chasing a ball or exploring the great outdoors.
They’re also known for their unique vocalizations – rather than barking, they make a yodeling sound that’s sure to catch your attention!
So if you’re looking for a playful companion to keep you on your toes, the Basenji might be just the breed for you.
These little hounds are known for their close bonds with their human families and love nothing more than snuggling up with their favorite people.
So if you’re looking for a social and playful companion to join in all your family fun, the Basenji might just be the perfect fit.
Just be prepared for plenty of wagging tails and endless energy – these pups are always ready for a good time!
These pups are known for their outgoing and friendly personalities, and they love nothing more than making new friends – human or canine.
They’re always up for a good time and will happily join in on any activity, whether it’s a game of fetch or a trip to the park.
But don’t let their love for socializing fool you – these pups are also fiercely independent and love to explore on their own.
The Basenji is a small to medium-sized breed with a sleek and athletic appearance. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including red, black, chestnut, brindle, and tricolor.
Basenjis are known for their slender and agile bodies, with long legs and a slender neck. They have a small, triangular head with almond-shaped eyes and large, pointed ears.
Their tail is typically carried upright and is often described as being “crooked” or “squiggly.”
The Basenji can be a reserved dog, very affectionate with his family yet reserved with outsiders.
Basenjis are intelligent canines who are difficult to train. To bring forth their greatest traits, they require innovative and patient handling.
They do not bark, as previously said, but their yodeling is rather loud. They can be chewers and diggers if left to their own devices.
Basenji breeders and owners frequently describe them as “catlike” since they groom themselves by licking and are quiet.
They also appear to enjoy climbing to high areas, possibly to view their kingdoms from there.
Things To Keep In Mind
Health
One common health concern for Basenjis is hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint is improperly formed and can cause lameness or arthritis.
Another concern is eye problems, such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) or cataracts, which can lead to vision loss.
It’s important to work closely with a veterinarian to monitor your Basenji’s health and address any concerns as they arise.
Despite these potential health issues, the Basenji is generally a healthy and hardy breed.
National Breed Club’s advised health examinations:
- Hip Evaluation
- Thyroid Evaluation
- PRA-BJ1 DNA Test
- Fanconi Syndrome DNA Test
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Grooming
These little hounds have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming to keep it looking its best.
Basenjis are known for their cleanliness and often groom themselves like cats, which means less shedding and fewer baths for you!
A weekly brushing with a slicker brush or rubber curry comb should be sufficient to remove loose hair and keep their coat looking shiny and healthy.
These pups are also relatively easy on the ears – they don’t require regular ear cleanings like some breeds, as their ears are small and close to their head.
Exercise
Basenjis are medium-energy dogs and require daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy.
They love to run, play, and explore, and they’ll happily join you on a hike, a jog, or a game of fetch.
They’re also great at agility courses and can excel in obedience and other dog sports.
Training
Basenjis are generally easy to train, as they are highly intelligent and eager to please their humans.
They respond well to positive reinforcement and rewards-based training methods and are quick to learn new commands and tricks.
However, it’s important to remember that these pups are also fiercely independent and may require a bit more patience and persistence when it comes to training.
They may try to test their boundaries and challenge your leadership, so it’s important to be consistent and firm in your training approach.
Nutrition
The recommended amount of dry food per day is 3/4 cup to 1 cup, divided into two meals.
When it comes to feeding your Basenji, it’s critical to select a high-quality dog food that is suitable for their size and energy level.
To support their active lifestyle, look for a formula that is high in protein as well as necessary vitamins and minerals.
It’s also a good idea to avoid foods with fillers or artificial additives, which can be hazardous to your dog’s health.
4. Saluki
The Saluki is one of the Egyptian dog breeds that are native to the Middle East, including Egypt, where they were used for hunting and coursing.
These graceful canines have been around for thousands of years, and they have a rich history that is steeped in legend and lore.
With their sleek coats, long ears, and regal bearing, Salukis are truly a sight to behold.
But don’t let their refined appearance fool you – they are also known for their athleticism and love of adventure.
So whether you’re looking for a regal companion to join you on long walks through the countryside or a loyal friend to curl up with on the couch, the Saluki is sure to be the perfect fit.
These gentle giants are known for their strong bond with their loved ones and are often referred to as “velcro dogs” because of their tendency to follow their owners around and stay close by their side.
Salukis are also fiercely loyal and will do whatever it takes to protect their loved ones. So if you’re looking for a four-legged guardian to keep your family safe, the Saluki is definitely the breed for you.
These friendly and outgoing pups love nothing more than making new friends and charming everyone they meet.
With their friendly dispositions and outgoing personalities, Salukis are always the life of the party and are sure to win over the hearts of everyone they encounter.
They generally get along with other dogs, but prefer other Salukis, or at least other sighthounds.
Salukis are medium to large sized dogs with a slender and athletic build. They have long, silky coats that come in a variety of colors, including white, cream, fawn, red, black, and various shades of sable.
They have long, floppy ears and a long, thin tail that is often carried low. Salukis are known for their graceful gait, and they are capable of great speed and endurance.
They have powerful legs and deep chests, which allow them to run for long distances without tiring.
They also have strong, agile bodies that make them well-suited for activities such as lure coursing and racing.
The saluki is a one-family dog who might be reserved or even shy towards strangers. This is a faithful yet unobtrusive breed that prefers to sit by your side rather than on your lap.
Salukis are peaceful at home, gentle with children, and get along well with other dogs. They make good watchdogs but poor protective dogs.
Salukis must be given the opportunity to run, and run hard, every day. Given the opportunity, they are somewhat obedient, as long as they want the same thing you want.
Salukis like to lounge and run, but they live to chase. Without a doubt, this serene, sweet, ethereal being with the wide innocent eyes is a serious hunter at heart.
Things To Keep In Mind
Health
One health issue that is common in Salukis is hip dysplasia, which is a condition in which the hip joint is improperly formed and does not fit together correctly.
This can cause pain and difficulty moving, and it may require surgery to correct.
Salukis are also prone to eye problems, such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which is a degenerative eye disease that can lead to vision loss.
They may also be prone to cataracts, which are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye that can cause vision loss.
Other health concerns that may affect Salukis include heart conditions, such as patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), and autoimmune disorders, such as autoimmune thyroiditis.
It is important to work with a veterinarian to monitor and manage these conditions and to provide the necessary care and treatment.
National Breed Club’s advised health examinations:
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
Grooming
Salukis have a long, silky coat that requires minimal grooming to maintain its sleek and shiny appearance.
They are prone to shedding, but regular brushing and combing will help to minimize shedding and keep their coat looking its best.
When it comes to bathing, Salukis only need to be bathed every few months or as needed.
In terms of other grooming needs, Salukis should have their nails trimmed regularly, and their ears should be checked and cleaned as needed to prevent infections.
Exercise
In terms of daily exercise, Salukis typically require at least an hour of moderate to intense exercise each day.
This can include activities such as running, playing fetch, or going for a long walk or hike.
It is important to provide your Saluki with plenty of opportunities to exercise and burn off excess energy, as they are prone to boredom and can become destructive if they do not have enough mental and physical stimulation.
Training
When it comes to training, Salukis respond best to positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards-based training or clicker training.
They are sensitive and do not respond well to harsh punishment or negative reinforcement, so it is important to use positive training methods that are gentle and kind.
Nutrition
It is recommended to feed your dog 1.75 to 2.75 cups of high-quality dog food twice a day, divided into two meals.
Salukis do best on a high-quality, protein-rich diet that is formulated for large-breed dogs. It is important to choose a diet that is appropriate for their size and energy needs, and to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding.
Salukis should be fed a measured amount of food based on their age, size, and activity level.
Salukis are the dog world’s supermodels, although they may be picky eaters. Remember, they’re supposed to look slim, and you might be able to see the contour of their ribs beneath their skin.
5. Egyptian Armant
A medium-sized sheepdog, the Egyptian Armant Herding Dog is one of the lesser-known and rare Egyptian dog breeds on the entire planet.
It’s thought that they originated when Napoleon brought his Briards with him on a march through Egypt; those dogs then bred with local street dogs, creating the Armant.
Despite not being popular outside of Egypt, these pups are often used for everything from herding livestock to guarding valuables, making them excellent working dogs.
Armant dogs can be wonderful pets, especially if introduced early in life. They are devoted dogs who form strong bonds with their owners.
In fact, this breed struggles when left alone for extended periods of time and is prone to developing separation anxiety.
The Armant is a sweet and peaceful dog who gets along well with youngsters, although they do require plenty of space to run and play.
Egyptian Armants, which were bred to work on farms, typically get along with a variety of animals. Although they should be socialized with them early for the most peaceful interactions, they get along well with other dogs and cats.
Additionally, if you live on a farm, Armants will blend in seamlessly with the cows, goats, lambs, and other animals. They’ll probably try to herd the animals as per instinct, which the cows might not like.
Also, Armant dogs make ideal watchdogs to protect your property because they are also inherently wary of strangers.
The medium-length shaggy coat of the Armant makes it simple to recognize. The tough, rough coat of this breed aids to shield it from bad weather and predatory creatures.
It is available in a wide range of hues, including black, tan, gray, yellow, or any combination of those colors.
They have a large head, small eyes and a deep, and broad chest. Their ears differ in each one and there is not standard concerning the ears (the ears may be erect or dropped).
Armant dogs are an extremely agile breed. The breed is loyal and extremely protective of its area, which it will defend without hesitation.
They are excellent working dogs with a brave and devoted attitude. Armant dogs often react well to instruction, but this requires the involvement of a firm owner.
They get along well with other animals and are excellent with youngsters.
Things To Keep In Mind
Health
As an ancient breed, these dogs do not appear to be predisposed to many serious health conditions.
However, due to its stature, this breed may be prone to hip dysplasia and osteochondritis dissecans; Armants with drop ears may also be prone to ear infections.
Grooming
In the colder months, the Armant’s coarse, medium-to-long coat becomes dense, shielding them from the elements when they are out with the flock.
Once a week brushing is recommended to keep the coat looking healthy and to get rid of any dirt. When grooming, use a metal comb, a pin brush, a slicker brush, or a brush with natural bristles.
The Armant’s coat rarely tangles, however matting can happen if it is not constantly combed. To keep their longer coats from tangling, Armants with longer coats should be brushed daily or every other day.
They do shed a lot, and when they are shedding, they need additional grooming care. Every week, especially if they have ears that hang down, clean their ears.
They should have their nails clipped every several weeks or as needed. Bathing the Armant too frequently might cause their skin to grow dry and flaky.
Exercise
The Armant is a very active breed. They were originally raised to work and run all day on farms, and their exercise needs reflect that heritage.
If you live in an apartment or a crowded metropolis, getting the Armant the necessary exercise may be difficult.
Unless you live somewhere with plenty of area for them to roam and run, the Armant requires regular daily exercise.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Armants will not perform well if they are kenneled or crated for long periods of time due to their high energy level and want to be engaged in family life.
Training
The Armant is a smart, highly trainable canine that was created as a farm dog. These dogs make wonderful household pets and may be trained for both herding and protecting cattle.
Positive reinforcement training is especially effective with this breed since they form strong bonds with their owners.
Remember that if these dogs are not given enough exercise or are left alone for an extended period, they may become destructive.
Nutrition
The Armant should be fed premium dry food designed for medium-sized dogs as it is a medium-sized dog.
Depending on the brand and formula of the meal, a healthy adult Armant should consume 3 to 4 cups.
Instead of one meal a day, Armant dogs should be given multiple meals to avoid life-threatening bloat.
The Armant was created as a working breed, thus it might also benefit from a working or active breed formula’s higher calorie and fat content.
Owners Also Ask
Are Egyptian dog breeds good with children?
Many Egyptian dog breeds are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them good companions for children.
However, it is important to supervise all interactions between children and dogs and to teach children how to behave around dogs in a respectful and safe manner.
Are Egyptian dog breeds prone to any health issues?
All breeds of dogs can be prone to certain health issues, and it is important to work with a veterinarian to prevent and manage any health problems that may arise.
It is also essential to choose a reputable breeder and to keep up with regular veterinary checkups to ensure the health and well-being of your dog.
What is the history of Egyptian dog breeds?
Many Egyptian dog breeds have a long and rich history in the region.
The Pharaoh Hound and Ibizan Hound were used for hunting small game in ancient Egypt, while the Saluki was prized for its hunting and coursing abilities in the Middle East, including Egypt.
These breeds have played important roles in Egyptian culture and have been prized for their beauty and athleticism for centuries.
Conclusion about Egyptian dog breeds
In conclusion, Egyptian dog breeds are an excellent choice for those who appreciate their unique history and beauty.
From the sleek and athletic Pharaoh Hound to the graceful and elegant Saluki, these breeds are prized for their intelligence, athleticism, and graceful movement.
Whether you are looking for an active companion or a graceful and elegant presence, an Egyptian dog breed is perfect for you.
It is vital to research the specific needs and characteristics of a particular breed before adopting an Egyptian dog and to work with a veterinarian to ensure the health and well-being of your pet.
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