AFGHAN HOUND
APPEARANCE
Afghan Hounds are highly recognizable with their narrow and tall body and long, thick and profuse coat. Long silky coat can come in all colors including blue, brindle, black, and cream, amongst others. The head is rather lengthy, with a balanced foreface and skull. The muzzle is normally long and very slender. The average height of this large breed is 25-28 inches, and the weight is 50-60 pounds.
PERSONALITY
The Afghan Hound is a very sweet, loving and playful dog that enjoys human interaction and companionship. These dogs are usually determined and quite independent - however, this is not a breed that likes to be left alone for long periods, and if neglected can become bored and destructive. Consistent, regular positive interactions and lots of time with the family is the best way to enhance the Afghan Hounds sweet and gentle personality.
TRAINING
The Afghan Hound is a very intelligent dog but it does have an independent streak that requires patience and understanding. Being that the Afghan Hound is sensitive, this breed must be trained gently, yet consistently. The Afghan Hound will often become bored of the same types of routines and training activities. Try to provide as much of a variety as possible. The Afghan Hound is often very difficult to housebreak and because of their large physical size crate training is usually not an option.
EXERCISE
They are herders and hunters by nature, and require a good deal of physical exercise. Because these dogs are so fast, they need a secure area like a yard with a high fence in which to run. They will chase cars, cats, squirrels and anything else that catches their eye. However, they are also very obedient when trained on the lead, making them simple to walk and exercise on a regular basis.
SOCIALIZATION
Some Afghan Hounds have a tendency to become withdrawn without proper socialization, and therefore you should ensure that he is socialized at an early age. A well socialized Afghan should get on okay with other dogs, and will also get on well with older and more considerate children. Care should be taken around smaller animals, as he may chase them. These cautious dogs can be suspicious around strangers, and are often seen as aloof.
LIVING CONDITIONS
The Afghan Hound is not recommended for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with a large yard. However this breed can live in or outdoors, although it would be happier sleeping indoors.
GROOMING
To keep an Afghan Hounds coat in good shape it will usually take a commitment of several hours of grooming time per week. You will need to trim his bottom and keep his ear canals clean for health and hygiene reasons, and you may wish to get his coat trimmed every few months. The commitment to grooming is essential for families or individuals thinking about choosing an Afghan Hound as a pet. This dog is a medium to high shedder, and therefore is probably not the best choice for those with allergies.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Afghan Hound is around 10 to 12 years. Generally healthy, the Afghan has a low incidence of hip dysplasia, can suffer from cataracts, and has sensitivity to pesticides, also a progressive paralytic disease is unique to the breed. Make sure they have plenty of clean cool water as this breed has a thick coat, which can cause him to become hot.
HISTORY
The Afghan hound originated in an area along the Afghan border with Iran known as Seistan. Afghan Hound a sight hound (meaning they hunt by sight rather than scent). A member of the Greyhound family, this is a breed that enjoys a long history, dating back thousands of years. This hound was first registered with the AKC in 1926.
