Afghan Hound

A capable hunting dog, the Afghan hound is a swift runner and a powerful jumper

Originated in the wilds of Afghanistan. When Westerners first saw the breed in the 1800s, they found a fast, sure-footed sighthound who would chase and bring down hare or deer and would corner predators, such as wolves and jackals.

The Afghan has a regal appearance, standing 25 to 27 inches tall and weighing between 50 and 60 pounds, with females smaller than males. The head is held high, and the eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The ears are long. The body is that of a runner with long legs, a strong back, and a deep chest. The tail is long and has a curve at the end. The coat is long and silky and may
be of any color.

Training
Training the Afghan can be a challenge. Bred to work independently, he prefers his own agenda to someone else’s and can have quite a stubborn streak. In the house, young Afghans are known to be destructive chewers if given too much freedom and not allowed enough exercise. With the right motivation, the Afghan can learn to enjoy training and to go along with
household rules.

Training should be structured yet fun. This is a fun breed for people who understand it. Afghans
are good with children if raised or well-socialized with them. Bred as hunting dogs, they are not good with small pets.

Taking Care and Health Issue
The coat requires daily combing and brushing to maintain it without tangles. The Afghan Club of
America recommends bathing adult Afghans once a week. Bathing and blow drying the coat and
brushing and combing it as it dries requires two to three hours. Many pet owners choose to keep
the coat significantly shorter for ease of care.

The Afghan enjoys a chance to stretch his legs at least once each day. The Afghan should always
run in a fenced yard because if he is off leash and happens to flush a rabbit, he will be gone in a
heartbeat. Afghans also appreciate comfort and will enjoy a snuggle on the sofa once the exercise is over.

Health concerns include hip dysplasia and eye and heart problems.