GROUP 4 - HOUNDS 

Brief History
The Afghan Hound is an ancient breed and recognised from archival paintings to be over 4,000 years old. It is believed that hounds of this kind have been used to hunt in what was Asia Minor for many centuries although records are scarce. The Afghan Hound is an extremely efficient hunter of small to medium prey. He works by sight over rough terrain in harsh desert conditions, so is a dog with great stamina and strength as well as very speedy.

The western world was introduced to the breed in the 1800’s by wives of English officers returning from serving in Afghanistan and these imported dogs were given the name after the country of origin, Afghanistan.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.

The average life span is 11 to 14 years.

Temperament
Independent, keen, dignified and aloof, yet affectionate and friendly.

General Breed Description
The Afghan Hound is often referred to as the “King of Dogs”, being of great beauty with an aloof and dignified manner, a charismatic presence and style of high order, all combining to make this breed quite unique. At the same time, these are a social dog, interactive and watchful of what’s happening around them and needing company to thrive.

Their character is at times clownish, never to be misinterpreted as unintelligent, as they are extremely smart and highly trainable, providing training is carried out correctly with patience and a positive and consistent approach. The Afghan Hound is great with families, loyal and they get on well with other pets, although his sighthound instinct to chase moving, furry things should be respected. They are very adaptable to living in the home and can be lounge lizards.

If properly socialised they will have no problems within the community. Any colour is allowed.

Coat and Care Requirements
The coat does not shed and it is silky, being similar to human hair and grows in length as they mature. A unique feature is the coat pattern. On maturity, the Afghan forms short hair on the saddle (back) to the top of the tail and on the face, with long coat on the top of the head, legs and body.

Afghan Hounds require regular grooming at least weekly, and this is an important factor to consider before you decide this is the breed for you. Thorough brushing to maintain the hair separation and regular bathing keeps the coat in a glorious condition. Owners can also visit a groomer, who may if requested keep the coat at a shorter, more manageable length.

This breed is best with some regular exercise and needs good security.

Size
Height: Males: 68 to 74cms (27 to 29 ins), Females: 5 to 8cms (2 to 3ins) smaller.

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Afghan Hound is generally a healthy breed, but health conditions do occur occasionally.

Suitability
The Afghan Hound can live happily in small confines, provided they are walked regularly and socialized. There is nothing more beautiful than to see the Afghan Hound running free in the confines of a fully fenced oval or park.

They are suitable for Agility, Trick and Therapy dogs. Formal obedience is not necessarily their forte, but there are some examples of achieving high standards. Also, the Afghan Hound is prominent in the conformation show ring.

They can make very good pets for homes that can cater for their specific needs.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard:

https://dogsaustralia.org.au/members/breeds/breed-standards/Afghan-Hound