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 First Impressions
An aristocratic, elegant coursing dog of huge athletic ability. The slim, muscular body is wrapped in a long glamorous coat. The high-stepping gait of the Afghan is bouncy with the silky coat flowing out behind it.
The History Of The Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is also known as Tazi. They originated in Afghanistan
during the 17th century.
This is a very ancient dog, native to Sinai, and mentioned in Egyptian papyruses as well as depicted in the caves of northern Afghanistan more than 4000 years ago. The breed remained pure for centuries and its exportation was prohibited. It only reached Europe as contraband early this century. This elegant sight hound was used as a shepherd and as a hunter of game including deer, wild goats, wolves and snow leopards. They were also used by shepherds as herders and watchdogs. An extremely fast and agile runner, the Afghan Hound pursues game by sight.
Description Of The Afghan Hound
Long tapering tail, curled at tip is not altered.
The breed averages 25 - 29 inches and 55 - 65 pounds.
The Afghan Hound is a sight hound with an aristocratic bearing. Tall and slender with a long, narrow, head, silky topknot and powerful jaws. The muzzle is slightly convex ("Roman nose") with a black nose. There is little or no stop. Teeth should meet in a level scissors bite. The dark eyes are almond shaped with ears lying flat to the head. The neck is long and strong. The height at the withers should be almost level and the abdomen well tucked up. The hip bones are fairly prominent. The front legs are strong and straight and the feet are large and covered with long hair.
Coat & Grooming
The single coat is long and tangles easily.
Very high grooming maintenance. When showing it must be bathed once a week. Do not brush in-between baths in order to keep coat long and shiny. Brushing a dry coat will damage the coat and even make it more prone to matting. Weekly baths are not as important if your Afghan is a pet and will not be shown, but doing so will keep the coat less matted and will save time in the end. Many show dogs wear snoods indoors to protect their ears
Temperament
Dignified, somewhat aloof with a sweet, loyal, affectionate and sensitive nature. they have a low dominance level. They must be trained gently and sympathetically. The Afghan has been described as "a king of dogs."
Majestic, elegant, noble and courageous. Suspicious of strangers but not hostile. They will pine if they are deprived of attention. They will do best with older more considerate children. At one time, the breed was reputed to be untrustworthy. This has been replaced by a spirited character, more amenable to training and discipline. They can be disobedient if poorly trained.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average life span for an Afghan Hound is around 14 years.
Reported health problems are, like most of the greyhound family, a sensitivity to anesthetics which an be life-threatening.
Allergic to the chemicals on flea collars, and in powders and sprays for fleas and ticks.
Genetic cataracts.
A progressive paralytic disease is unique to the breed.
A tendency to give up fighting an illness. Afghans often just curl up and wait to die.
Generally healthy, the Afghan has a low pain tolerance, thereby suffering even with minor injuries.
Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
The Afghan Hound is not recommended for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and thrive on acreage. They can live in or outdoors, although it would be happier sleeping indoors.
Afghan Hounds love open spaces and must be allowed to run free in a safe area as well as having long daily walks. It needs a minimum of 30 minutes of free running per day.
For More Information on the Afghan Hound
To get more information, check out the Afghan Hound web site:
http://clubs.akc.org/ahca/
There may also be rescue dogs available. Check for details on:
http://www.afghanhound.net/
Summary
Unusual in hunting dogs, Afghans have a low tolerance to pain - and they will let you know it. Very high strung and will become hyperactive if not exercised regularly. One of the first Afghans imported to the US belonged to Zeppo Marx of Marx Brothers fame.
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