Is the Kelb tal-Fenek a sighthound?
The Kelb tal-Fenek basically works by scent and by using its ears. Only in sight of a prey, it chases it like a real sighthound. However, the anatomy of the Kelb tal-Fenek (as well as of other Mediterranean Hounds) shows marked sighthound characteristics. As a compromise, the FCI placed the Mediterranean Hounds (Kelb tal-Fenek, Podenco Ibicenco, Podenco Canario, Cirneco dell’ Etna and Podengo Portugus) in the Group 5 (Spitz and primitive type) instead of the Groups 10 (Sighthounds) or 6 (Scenthounds). However, in most countries the breed is governed by the national sighthound clubs and can participate in sighthound sports such as lure coursing and track racing.
