Pharaoh Hound — Housing & Enclosures

Pharaoh Hounds are medium-sized dogs with a generous stride and a strong desire to move. While they are surprisingly calm indoors and adapt well to house living, their athletic nature demands adequate space to stretch and relax comfortably. A home with room for the dog to move freely between resting spots without constantly navigating tight corridors or cluttered areas will suit this breed far better than a cramped apartment layout.

Outdoor space is where the Pharaoh Hound's needs become more demanding. This breed has an exceptionally strong prey drive and is capable of clearing impressive heights when motivated. A securely fenced yard with walls or fencing at least six feet tall is considered the minimum for safe off-leash time. Standard four-foot chain-link fencing is inadequate — these dogs are agile jumpers and will clear it with little effort if they spot something worth chasing.

Indoor living areas should include at least one quiet retreat space away from high-traffic zones. Pharaoh Hounds are social dogs that want to be near their people, but they also appreciate having a dedicated spot where they can rest undisturbed. A corner of the living room or a bedroom alcove with a comfortable bed works well. Avoid placing their primary resting area near exterior doors where drafts are common, as this thin-coated breed is sensitive to cold air currents.

For owners in apartments or homes without yards, daily access to secure, enclosed exercise areas is essential. Dog parks with double-gated entries can work, but only if the perimeter fencing is tall enough and the dog has reliable recall. Many Pharaoh Hound owners find that dedicated sighthound playgroups or access to enclosed sports fields provides the safest environment for off-leash running.

Crate training is highly beneficial for Pharaoh Hounds, particularly during puppyhood and adolescence when their curiosity and energy can lead to destructive behavior if left unsupervised. The crate should be large enough for the dog to stand at full height, turn around comfortably, and lie down with legs extended. For most adult Pharaoh Hounds, a 42-inch crate is appropriate, though taller individuals may need a 48-inch model to accommodate their long legs.

Wire crates offer excellent ventilation and visibility, which suits the Pharaoh Hound's social nature. Many dogs of this breed prefer to see their surroundings rather than being enclosed in a solid-sided space. A removable tray at the bottom simplifies cleaning, and a crate cover or blanket draped over the top and sides can create a den-like atmosphere for dogs that prefer more seclusion during rest. Avoid fully enclosing wire crates in warm weather, as airflow is important for a breed that regulates temperature primarily through panting.

Plastic airline-style kennels are a secondary option, useful primarily for travel. They provide more insulation than wire crates, which can be beneficial during car trips in cold weather but may cause overheating in warm conditions if ventilation is limited. For Pharaoh Hounds that travel frequently, investing in a crash-tested travel crate that meets safety certification standards is worthwhile for vehicle use.

Positive association with the crate is critical. This breed is sensitive to confinement stress and will not respond well to being forced into a crate as punishment. Use treats, comfortable bedding, and calm reinforcement to build a positive relationship with the space. Most well-adjusted Pharaoh Hounds come to view their crate as a preferred resting spot and will seek it out voluntarily.

Pharaoh Hounds have virtually no body fat and very thin skin, making them particularly sensitive to pressure points when lying on hard surfaces. Orthopedic beds with memory foam or high-density supportive foam are the best choice for this breed, providing cushioning that prevents calluses on elbows and hocks — a common issue for lean sighthounds that rest on inadequate surfaces.

Elevated cot-style beds are another excellent option, especially in warmer months. These beds allow air to circulate beneath the dog, helping regulate body temperature. Many Pharaoh Hounds gravitate toward elevated beds naturally, as the slight elevation also provides a vantage point that satisfies their alert, observant nature. Look for models with a taut, breathable fabric that supports the dog's weight without sagging into a hammock shape.

Bedding material matters as much as the bed itself. Pharaoh Hounds are notorious burrowers and nest-builders. Providing a soft fleece blanket or two along with the bed allows the dog to arrange its sleeping area to its liking. In cooler weather, many Pharaoh Hounds will burrow completely under blankets, using them for warmth that their thin coat cannot provide. Washable covers and blankets are essential, as this breed's short coat does shed moderately and the bedding will need regular laundering.

Place at least one bed in the main family living area and consider a second in the bedroom if the dog sleeps near its owners. Pharaoh Hounds form strong bonds and often experience separation anxiety if isolated at night. Having a bed in the bedroom — even if the dog is not allowed on the furniture — provides the proximity this breed craves while maintaining boundaries.

Outdoor enclosures for Pharaoh Hounds must prioritize escape prevention above all else. This breed combines powerful jumping ability with a relentless prey drive, and a squirrel or rabbit on the other side of a fence is an irresistible invitation. Fencing should be at least six feet tall, with no horizontal rails or crossbars that could serve as footholds for climbing. Solid privacy fencing is preferable to chain-link, as it removes the visual stimulation of passing animals and pedestrians that triggers chase behavior.

For yards where six-foot fencing is not practical or permitted by local codes, coyote rollers or angled fence extensions can add an extra layer of security. These devices mount to the top of existing fencing and prevent the dog from gaining purchase over the top edge. Underground barriers or L-shaped footer extensions along the fence line address digging, which some Pharaoh Hounds will attempt if they cannot jump over an obstacle.

Shaded areas within the outdoor enclosure are important but not for the reason most owners assume. While the Pharaoh Hound originated in a warm Mediterranean climate, they are susceptible to sunburn on their nose, ear tips, and any lightly pigmented skin. A covered patio, shade sail, or mature tree canopy provides relief from direct sun during peak hours. Conversely, these dogs should not be left outdoors for extended periods in cold weather — their thin coat offers virtually no insulation, and temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit warrant a move indoors.

Outdoor kennels or dog runs should be considered temporary containment, not a substitute for indoor living. Pharaoh Hounds are companion dogs that deteriorate behaviorally and emotionally when isolated outdoors for long stretches. A well-designed outdoor space supplements their indoor environment and provides enrichment opportunities, but the dog's primary living area should always be inside the home with its family.

The Pharaoh Hound's thin, short coat and low body fat make climate management one of the most important aspects of their housing setup. This breed has essentially no undercoat and no insulating fat layer, which means they lose body heat rapidly in cold conditions and can overheat quickly in extreme warmth. Indoor climate control is not optional — it is a fundamental requirement for responsible ownership.

In cold climates, supplemental warmth beyond standard household heating may be necessary. Self-warming pet mats that reflect the dog's body heat back are a low-energy option for crate or bed use. Heated pet beds with thermostatic controls provide more aggressive warmth for dogs in particularly cold homes or drafty older buildings. If using heated products, choose only those with chew-resistant cords and automatic shutoff features to prevent burns or electrical hazards.

Summer presents the opposite challenge. Pharaoh Hounds can overheat during vigorous exercise even at moderate temperatures. Indoor spaces should be air-conditioned or well-ventilated with fans during warm months. Cooling mats — gel-based pads that absorb body heat — offer a portable solution for dogs that prefer to lie on cool surfaces. Elevated beds also help in summer by allowing airflow beneath the dog.

Humidity is an often-overlooked factor. High humidity impairs a dog's ability to cool itself through panting, which is the primary thermoregulation mechanism for all dogs. In humid climates, maintaining indoor humidity below 60 percent with dehumidifiers or air conditioning protects the Pharaoh Hound from heat stress even at temperatures that would otherwise be manageable. Owners in tropical or subtropical regions should be especially attentive to this balance.

Pharaoh Hounds generally coexist well with other dogs, particularly other sighthounds that share their play style and energy level. However, their strong prey drive means that introductions with smaller animals — cats, rabbits, ferrets, and small dog breeds — must be handled with extreme caution. Housing arrangements in multi-pet homes should include physical barriers that allow safe separation when direct supervision is not possible.

Baby gates and room dividers are practical tools for managing multi-pet dynamics. Choose gates that are tall enough to prevent the Pharaoh Hound from jumping over — standard 30-inch baby gates are usually too short for this breed. Walk-through pressure-mounted gates at 36 to 42 inches tall, or hardware-mounted options at full doorway height, provide reliable separation. Cats should have access to elevated escape routes and rooms the dog cannot enter, ensuring they always have a safe retreat.

Feeding stations should be separated in multi-pet households. Pharaoh Hounds are not typically food-aggressive, but resource guarding can develop if dogs are forced to eat in close proximity. Feeding each pet in a designated area — ideally in different rooms or at staggered times — prevents competition and allows each animal to eat at its own pace without stress.

Sleeping arrangements may need adjustment as well. Some Pharaoh Hounds are happy to share a dog bed with a companion dog, while others prefer their own space. Provide enough beds for each dog in the household plus one extra, placed in different locations, so every animal can choose where and with whom to rest. Monitor initial sleeping arrangements closely, as hierarchy disputes sometimes surface during rest periods when dogs are settling in for the night.

Crate training becomes especially valuable in multi-pet homes as a management tool. Each dog having its own crate provides a guaranteed separation option for times when the household is unattended, during meal preparation, or when tensions occasionally rise. The crate should remain a positive space, never used as isolation punishment, so the dog views it as a personal retreat rather than a penalty.