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A Guide To Breeds - Hounds
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Description
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The Afghan Hound is a sighthound known for it's aristocratic bearing, their heads are held high showing their
nobility and elevated self esteem. They are tall and slender with a long narrow refined head, powerful jaws, dark
almond shaped eyes and a slightly convex muzzle. The tail has a curl or ring at the tip and the long, rich, silky coat
is most often the colour of sand with a darker face and ear fringes - all colours are permitted but white markings
are discouraged. An Afghan Hound in full flight is a sight to see, it's long silky coat flowing in the breeze as it
covers the ground with long, powerful strides.
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Breed Origins
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The Afghan Hound is an ancient dog from Sinai and is pictured in Afghanistani cave paintings as long as 4000
years ago. The breed was pure bred, and it's exportation banned, for centuries only reaching Europe after being
smuggled in during the early 1900's. A typical sighthound the Afghan is a hunter and will chase almost anything
that moves - as well as being show dogs Afghans are also today used in lure coursing.
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Temperament
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The Afghan hound is an intelligent and confident though sometimes highly strung breed. Noble, majestic and
courageous they can be suspicious of strangers though rarely hostile. Although a physically tough breed they will
pine if deprived of attention and do best with older, considerate children. They can be stubborn and headstrong
whilst at the same time they may have a low dominance level and need to be trained kindly. Perseverance,
consistency and patience are required and puppies have a reputation as being difficult to house train.
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Care
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Grooming must not be underestimated - frequent, fastidious combing is necessary to ensure the Afghan remains
looking his best and feeling comfortable. Dry shampoo when necessary and bathe once a month.
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Exercise and Feeding
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Afghan hounds need to be allowed free run in a safe area plus long daily walks, a minimum of 30 minutes per day
of free running plus normal lead time is required for optimal health and mental well being. As they are susceptible
to bloat it is a good idea to feed small meals two or three times a day and avoid exercise after meals.
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Potential Health Problems
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Although generally a healthy breed the Afghan Hound has a low pain tolerance and may suffer with minor injuries
that some other more robust breeds would shrug off. Unique to the breed is necrotic myelopathy, a respiratory
paralysis resulting in death which usually shows at around 3 to 6 months. They also have a known sensitivity to
anaesthesia, tranquillisers and cortisone so you should discuss with your vet before proceeding with any
treatments involving these drugs. Some dogs may suffer from hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and eye problems,
such as cataracts.
Health & Nutrition - This growing sections of Beantown Dogs includes an alphabetical listing of canine health
issues as well as information on nutrition.
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Kennel Club Group
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Hounds
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General Size
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Large
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Exercise requirements
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High
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Adult Height
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Female: 24-26 in (61-66 cm)
Males: 26-29 in (66-74 cm)
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Suitability for Children
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Medium
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Adult Weight
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Females: 45-55 lbs (20-25 kg)
Males: 55-65 lbs (25-29 kg)
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Compatibility other pets
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Medium
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Average Lifespan
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9 - 15 years
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Grooming Requirements
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High
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Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized of all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by
other registries not indicated here.
* The FCI is the World Canine Organization, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees
and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 332 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a
breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees.
