Description: The Afghan Hound is an aristocrat, their whole appearance is one of dignity and aloofness with no coarseness. Afghan Hounds' striking characteristics are their exotic expression, long silky topknot, peculiar coat pattern and prominent hipbones. They are large, powerful, squarely built and agile. They are one of the most glamorous breeds. An Afghan Hound's elegance makes them a popular show dog with their long, refined head and neck and long, tapered muzzle. Their coats are long and silky except on the face and back where the hair is short. Afghan Hounds have a side which is an arrogant mischievous companion, but they can be aloof with strangers, but are friendly and affectionate with their family. Afghan Hounds have recently been utilized in the sport of Afghan racing. They make delightful pets, but require much grooming on behalf of their beautiful coat.
Other Names: Tazi, Baluchi
Hound
Type: Sighthound
Height: Males:
27 inches; Females: 25 inches.
Weight: Males: 60 lbs.; Females:
50 lbs.
Colors: Afghan
Hounds come in all colors, and many different patterns.
Coat: Long and fine and silky.
They have a soft topknot and long straight fur that creates an elegant appearance.
Temperament: Afghan
Hounds are reserved, lively, and active. They are a strong willed and dignified
dog. They can be very aloof with strangers, which is their trademark, but they
can also be the best of playmates. Quite clownish at times, the Afghan Hound
can do well with children if socialized. They are affectionate and friendly
with family. They can be rather independent however, which makes it difficult
to train. They can get along with other dogs but are never ever trustworthy
with smaller animals, as they have a high prey drive.
With Children: Yes, the Afghan Hound is
fine with children if they are socialized, but they will do better in families
with older children.
With Pets: Yes, they do well with other
dogs but are never trustworthy with small animals as they have a strong prey
drive.
Special Skills: Hunter by sight of large
and small wild game, also watchdog, racing dog and a companion.
Watch-dog: High.
Guard-dog: High. They may use their powerful
teeth on an intruder if their warnings are not heeded.
Care and Training:
Afghan Hounds' coats need extensive grooming, daily grooming is recommended
especially for mat removal. Bathing them two or three times per month, pay special
attention to the ears. Afghan Hounds love to run. Daily exercise is needed,
preferably morning and evening runs. They are difficult to train because of
their independent nature. Intelligent they are, but they need a strong, committed
owner. This will lead to a happy relationship in the household.
Learning Rate: High. Obedience - Low. They
are very independent in nature. Problem Solving - Very high.
Activity: Moderate - High.
Special Needs: Exercise, fenced
yard, grooming, leash, and socialization.
Living Environment: The Afghan Hound adapts
well to many different places. City or country, house or apartment, the Afghan
Hound will do fine as long as they get enough exercise, socialization and have
a patient, active owner. Keep them leashed or within a fence. The best
owner for this breed would be an active, attentive individual or family living
in a rural or suburban area.
Health Issues: This is generally a healthy and robust breed. There is potential for juvenile cataracts and possible hip dysplasia. They may also have a sensitivity to drugs, flea powders and tickicides. There have been rare cases of progressive paralysis. Cryptorchidism, monorchidism and heart problems may also pertain to this breed.
Life Span: 12 - 15 years.
Litter Size: 6 - 8 puppies.
Country of Origin:
Afghanistan
History: One of the oldest breeds,
the Afghan Hound dates back thousands of years. Some even believe this is the
type of dog that accompanied Noah on his Ark! The Afghan Hound is a member of
the Greyhound family. Their ancestors were originally from Persia moving to
Afghanistan where they worked protecting sheep and cattle. Afghans were once
a harsh hunter in their native land where they used to hunt leopard, wolves
and jackals. They have now been breed to be an obedient, gentle dog. The Afghan
Hound was introduced into Western civilization late in the nineteenth century.
Much credit to the breed is given to Major Amps and his wife Mary who, while
living in Ghazni, Afghanistan, established their kennel "Ghazni". Mary also
did much research and writing on the breed. Their hounds are found in most American
Afghan Hound pedigrees. In the 20th century the breed was brought to England
by the British Captain Banff. He brought a hound named "Zardin", and from there
the breed spread into England. He was exhibited in the Crystal Palace Show in
1907 and began a strong interest in the breed. Today the breed is not extremely
popular pet due to the intense grooming needs, but they do very well in
dog shows.