So
you think you want a puppy...
After everything you've seen and read, you think you might be the
right person for one of these beautiful dogs. If you buy from a
reputable breeder, (and since Pharaohs are so rare, they are pretty
much all reputable breeders) you can expect to have to provide
references, including your veterinarian's.
There is
generally a fairly extensive interview as well, and expected
follow-up contact after you take your puppy home. You will most
likely also have to purchase your pup as a co-owner with the
breeder, and sign a co-ownership contract. This contract is
primarily to protect your dog in the event you cannot keep it. If
such an event occurs, the breeder gets the dog. It also ensures that
the breed stays pure, and that any breeding is done selectively and
with plenty of foresight.
Because
Pharaohs are so rare, because of their wonderful personality, and
because we need to insure that the breed stays as healthy as it is,
not everyone is a suitable candidate for ownership. Breeding is only
done when one is assured that there are enough of the right homes
for the pups to be placed in. So they are rather difficult to come
by. |
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| The
Bad News
Pharaoh
hounds are, as I've mentioned, very busy sometimes. They are
curious and get into things. Imagine one as a puppy! You
really have to have a lot of patience with them when they are very
young...
Pharaoh
hounds can be... what's a nice way to put this?... gluttons!
Then again, this applies to most dogs, I think. Feed him from
the supper table, and you will be haunted every time you sit down to
eat. Rattle a bag and he's coming at top speed just in case
you're planning on sharing those potato chips. "And don't
mind if I do just grab one out of your hand!" I think
Pharaohs are at their most beautiful when there is food
around. They are practically humming with tension, and the
ears are up, the eyes focused, foreheads wrinkled... so
pretty. Also kind of annoying, and worse, if you cave in to
their pleas, they will gain weight quickly. Don't do it!
And the worst
news of all.... They are by no stretch of the imagination
inexpensive, though they are less expensive than some other rare
breeds. Everyone who emails me requesting information asks
"How much can I expect to pay for a puppy?" So I'll
give you some ballpark figures.... Co-ownership with the breeder -
$800. If you buy one outright, expect to pay between $1500 and
$2000.
If you are
interested in a puppy, please send me an email! |
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