Pharaoh Hound Colors & Coat Guide
All recognized Pharaoh Hound colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.
Pharaoh Hound Colors Overview
The Pharaoh Hound comes in several recognized coat colors. Only comes in shades of tan to chestnut with white markings; a white tail tip is strongly desired as it was traditionally used to spot the dog at night..
Coat color is determined by genetics, with some colors being dominant and others recessive. Understanding color genetics can help predict puppy colors and identify responsible breeding practices.
All Pharaoh Hound Colors
The Pharaoh Hound is recognized in 3 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Pharaoh Hounds make equally wonderful companions.
Standard vs Non-Standard Pharaoh Hound Colors
Standard colors (3): Rich Tan, Chestnut, Tan. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Pharaoh Hounds are typically priced within the normal $1500–$3000 range.
How Color Affects Pharaoh Hound Price
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($1500–$3000) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$900–$1500) |
While color can influence the price of a Pharaoh Hound puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Pharaoh Hound in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Pharaoh Hounds is $1500–$3000, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.
Pharaoh Hound Coat Type and Grooming
The Pharaoh Hound's short and glossy coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 1/5 and shedding at 2/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.
The Pharaoh Hound's low-maintenance coat is one of the breed's practical advantages. Weekly brushing removes dead hair and promotes skin health, while baths are needed only when the dog is dirty or every 6–8 weeks. Grooming costs are modest at $42–95 per month, and most routine grooming can be handled at home with basic tools.
Regardless of coat color, all Pharaoh Hounds benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.
Pharaoh Hound Coat Genetics
Pharaoh Hound coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.
DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. Only comes in shades of tan to chestnut with white markings; a white tail tip is strongly desired as it was traditionally used to spot the dog at night..
Rare vs Standard Pharaoh Hound Colors
Among Pharaoh Hounds, the standard colors (Rich Tan, Chestnut, Tan) are most common. With 3 recognized colors, variety exists even within the standard palette. Buyers should be cautious—extremely rare colors can sometimes be associated with health issues or may indicate crossbreeding.
Only comes in shades of tan to chestnut with white markings; a white tail tip is strongly desired as it was traditionally used to spot the dog at night..
Do Pharaoh Hound Colors Change with Age?
Many Pharaoh Hound puppies experience some degree of color change as they mature. Puppies may be born darker or lighter than their adult coat. Standard colors (Rich Tan, Chestnut, Tan) typically stabilize as the puppy coat transitions to the adult coat between 4 and 12 months of age.
Choosing a Pharaoh Hound by Color
When selecting a Pharaoh Hound puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Anesthesia Sensitivity. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
- Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
- Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 3 recognized Pharaoh Hound colors can produce healthy, happy companions.
Controversial Colors
Be cautious of Pharaoh Hound breeders who promote non-standard colors at prices above the typical $1500–$3000 range. These 'rare' colors may not be recognized by kennel clubs and can occasionally carry genetic health risks. A responsible Pharaoh Hound breeder from the Hound group focuses on health testing for Anesthesia Sensitivity and temperament first.
Frequently Asked Questions
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