The Afghan hound originates from the country of Afghanistan. Prior to being called an Afghan hound, the breed was named Tazi. The breed dates back many thousands of years, having roots in the pre-Christian era. Although there is no written record of these dogs in such early times, DNA testing has confirmed them to be one of the most ancient breeds still in existence. Interestingly, Zeppo Marx was one of the first people to bring an Afghan hound to the United States. The breed gained tremendous popularity, particularly among girls, when a dog doll was fashioned to be sold alongside Barbie in the late 70’s. Today, the dog remains popular but can be difficult to find.
The Afghan Hound has all the physical attributes of a dog that originated in the mountains. It is has strong feet allowing it to keep its balance in rocky terrain and a steep pelvis enabling it to leap high. Its silky coat protects it from low temperatures. Its coat needs be brushed regularly.
Personality
This dog can come across as aloof, but it is protective and affectionate towards its owners. Afghan Hounds are reserved, or timid, toward strangers. Even though they are gentle with children, they may not be willing to interact or play with them. These are sensitive, smart dogs that need long walks on a daily basis and enough room to stretch their legs.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Sighthound |
| Function: | Hunting |
| Origin: | Asia |
| Preferred Climate: | Hot |
| Group: | Hounds |
| Life Span: | 10-13 Years |
| Nicknames: | Tazi, Tazhi Spay, Da Kochyano Spay, Sage Balochi, Ogar Afgan, Eastern Greyhound, Persian Greyhound |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Afghan Hound Build Information
The Afghan Hound has all the physical attributes of a dog that originated in the mountains. It is has strong feet allowing it to keep its balance in rocky terrain and a steep pelvis enabling it to leap high. Its silky coat protects it from low temperatures. Its coat needs be brushed regularly.
| Size: | Large |
| Length (Male): | 22-27 in. |
| Length (Female): | 22-24 in. |
| Weight: | 41 – 65 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 5 – 10 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | No |
Behaviour and Personality
This dog can come across as aloof, but it is protective and affectionate towards its owners. Afghan Hounds are reserved, or timid, toward strangers. Even though they are gentle with children, they may not be willing to interact or play with them. These are sensitive, smart dogs that need long walks on a daily basis and enough room to stretch their legs.
| Activity Level: | Active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Moderate |
| Barking: | Moderate |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | Submissive |
| Energy Level: | Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Moderate Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | No |
| Independant: | Yes |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
The Afghan hound has a very fine coat. In fact, the Afghan’s coat is more similar to human hair than it is to dog fur. Grooming is an absolute must for this breed; there is no getting around it. The fine fur of the hound tangles and mats easily. Most owners choose to have a professional groomer keep their dog’s coat in good condition. Some owners choose to have their hounds clipped to keep the dog clean. If you choose to purchase an Afghan hound, look for a groomer that has experience with these dogs; maintaining the coat can be difficult without experience.
| Colors: | Black & Tan, Sandy |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | High Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Fine |
Afghan Hound Common Health Conditions
Afghan hounds are a generally healthy breed. When it comes to common health issues, this breed is prone to allergies, cancer, hypothyroidism, and juvenile cataracts. While there is nothing that can prevent hereditary issues themselves, you can lessen the chance that your specific dog develops them. Only purchase a puppy that has parents with health certificates. At a minimum, Afghan hounds should be certified against hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, von Willebrand’s disease, and hypothyroidism. The parents should also be tested for thrombopathia, and they should be checked for any eye problems. When you purchase a puppy from a breeder that has taken time to health certify the parents, you are less likely to have to deal with these issues with your own puppy.
Afghan Hound Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Grooming is a must with this breed; it is not a choice. The dog is a natural hunter, chasing small animals with abandon. The breed is highly independent. The breed has a lower pain tolerance than other breeds. Train your puppy with a gentle hand and positive reinforcement.
| Training: | Easy |
| Hunting Companion: | Yes |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | Yes |
| Ideal for Tracking: | Yes |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | Yes |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | No |
| Police Performer: | No |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | No |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | Yes |
| Obedient: | No |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | No |
