Afghan Dog
Hound Dog Breeds
Background and Description
The Afghan dog is one of the more exotic and elegant members of the hound dog breeds. His long
and lustrous flowing coat combined with an eastern facial expression, 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, the Afghan 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 at 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 dog. Their coats will get matted without regular attention.
Personality and Traits:
The Afghan dog appears to be aloof around strangers, but this is just part of its cautions 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
positive and non-harsh 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:
Afghans 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. This is a very large dog breed that needs adequate space to move
around, 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 try to provoke or tease them.
Elderly:
Although the Afghan dog has been used successfully as a therapy breed in hospitals, they are not suitable for elderly
or sedentary owners who have no way of providing 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 Dog (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.
Return From Afghan Dog, To Hound Dog Breeds
Return to dog-spoiling-made-easy HOME
