Afghan
Hound Dog Group

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Background and Description

The Afghan is one of the most exotic and elegant looking dogs. With its long flowing coat and eastern expression, it never fails to draw attention. Originally from Afghanistan the breed dates back over 5,000 years or so. Pictographic engravings of the breed have been found on ancient tablets.

This breed is classified as a sighthound and has been used to hunt both very large and small game, as well as herding and watching over livestock. Although the hound that is most often seen in America, is of the bigger muscled and long-coated type that lived in mountainous regions, there is evidence of another variety that is short in coat and thinner, that inhabited the desert terrain. In addition to being a great looking dog, it has proven to be very versatile and can frequently be seen at dog shows, competing successfully in comformance, agility, coursing and obedience.

Appearance:

Height: 25-27 inches, Weight: 50-60 lbs.
Color variations: There is quite a variety of coat color seen among this breed although a sand color is quite common. Some of the other color are: fawn, gold, cream, gray, white, gold, brindle and tricolor.

Coat and Care:

The glamorous good looks of this breed are all about its long flowing coat. However, this does not come without a price. Weekly bathing and grooming is recommended to minimize tangles and matting. In addition, daily combing and brushing is necessary to keep this beautiful hound looking its best. Care should be taken never to brush a coat that is dirty, as it will become damaged. Expect to spend at least 15 minutes grooming time every day. Shedding is about average for this breed.

A tube-like head covering called a snood is a useful accessory to be worn mealtimes to keep the ears and hair out of the food. Potential owners should have a realistic understanding of the grooming needs before acquiring an Afghan. Their coats will get matted without regular attention.

Personality and Traits:

The Afghan appears to be aloof around strangers, but this is just part of its cautionary nature. It is a non-aggressive gentle dog, both affectionate and sensitive, that enjoys getting attention. They make good watchdogs.

Training is best done in a kindly way as they do not respond well to harsh methods, but they are quite intelligent and can learn almost anything. From his hunting background, this dog an independent thinker and owners need to establish dominance early on in a "gentle" way.

Housetraining will be easier if you mark an outside area with their urine - remember they are hounds and will easily sniff out the right spot.

Activity Level:

These dogs need exercise - LOTS of it! They love to run and need to be able to do this for extended periods each day. If you are an active runner, this dog will be an ideal running partner for you. Additionally, they should also have a big yard in which to exercise. It would be unfair to have this dog if owners do not have the time to for plenty of vigorous exercise. They are OK with other dogs in household.

Space Needs:

Not suitable for apartment living. They are big dogs and need adequate space, plus a large outdoor area where they can romp and play.

Children:

These dogs do best with older children who have respect for animals and will not tease them.

Elderly:

Although the Afghan has been used as therapy dogs in hospitals, they are not suitable for elderly or sedentary owners who would not be able to provide the high level of exercise they need.

Books:

Afghan Hounds, World Of Dogs

History of the breed, show dog information for the experienced fancier, and very importantly a chapter on grooming the long silky coat. Other sections on lure coursing and racing. Lots of full color photos.





Afghan Hound (KCB)

Breed history, tips on puppy selection, feeding, training, health care and behavior. Advice on preparing for the puppy, housetraining and avoiding puppy problems. Many color pictures.

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