Belgian Tervuren vs Pharaoh Hound
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Belgian Tervuren
Herding Group
Pharaoh Hound
Hound Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Belgian Tervuren Overview
Belgian Tervuren dogs showcase elegant proportions with a proud carriage and alert expression. Their distinctive long, straight double coat features rich fawn to russet mahogany coloring with black overlay. Square-built and muscular, they possess a refined yet powerful frame, complemented by their characteristic black mask and erect triangular ears.
Pharaoh Hound Overview
Noble and graceful, Pharaoh Hounds possess a distinctive copper-colored coat and expressive amber eyes. Their athletic build features long, clean lines and a streamlined silhouette characteristic of ancient sighthounds. Standing proudly with erect ears and an alert expression, these dogs combine elegance with surprising strength. Their muscular frame supports effortless movement, while their intelligent gaze reflects their keen hunting heritage.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Belgian Tervurens are less energetic than Pharaoh Hounds, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Belgian Tervurens require more grooming attention compared to Pharaoh Hounds.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Belgian Tervurens tend to be more reserved with strangers than Pharaoh Hounds.
- Trainability: Pharaoh Hounds may be slightly easier to train due to their Pharaoh Hound's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Pharaoh Hounds adapt better to apartment living, while Belgian Tervurens typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Belgian Tervuren and Pharaoh Hound, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Belgian Tervuren | Pharaoh Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 12-14 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Herding Group | Hound Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Belgian Tervuren | Pharaoh Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 22-26 inches 56-66 cm | 21-25 inches 53-64 cm |
| Weight | 45-75 lbs 20-34 kg | 45-55 lbs 20-25 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Belgian Tervuren | Pharaoh Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Courageous, Alert, Intelligent | Friendly, Smart, Noble |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Belgian Tervuren | Pharaoh Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Belgian Tervuren Temperament
The Belgian Tervuren is known for being courageous, alert, intelligent, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Pharaoh Hound Temperament
The Pharaoh Hound is characterized by being friendly, smart, noble, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Belgian Tervuren and Pharaoh Hound, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Belgian Tervuren
Rating: 3/5
Pharaoh Hound
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Belgian Tervuren
Rating: 3/5
Pharaoh Hound
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Belgian Tervuren
Rating: 4/5
Pharaoh Hound
Rating: 4/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Belgian Tervuren
Rating: 1/5
Pharaoh Hound
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Belgian Tervuren
Rating: 4/5
Pharaoh Hound
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Belgian Tervuren Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Belgian Tervurens require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Belgian Tervurens require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Pharaoh Hound Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Pharaoh Hounds need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Pharaoh Hounds require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Belgian Tervuren Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Eye Problems
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Thyroid Issues
Pharaoh Hound Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Allergies
- Eye Problems
- Cardiac Issues
- Thyroid Problems
Pros & Cons
Belgian Tervuren
Pros
- Highly intelligent
- Excellent working dog
- Loyal and protective
- Athletic and agile
- Good with family
Cons
- High exercise needs
- Intensive grooming required
- Can be aloof with strangers
- Strong herding instinct
- Requires experienced owner
Pharaoh Hound
Pros
- Elegant and graceful
- Low grooming needs
- Athletic and agile
- Gentle with family
Cons
- Strong prey drive
- Independent nature
- Needs secure fencing
- Can be aloof
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Belgian Tervuren and Pharaoh Hound, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.