Dogs - Afghan Hound

About the breed

The Afghan Hound is an ancient breed and can be traced back thousands of years to Afghanistan.

Afghans are tall, stately dogs with long silky hair which requires regular brushing. The Afghan Hound was used for hunting in rough, harsh terrain.  Its long legs could speedily chase any game that the dog saw.  The Afghan's speed and size make it capable of bringing down large animals like gazelle and leopard.

There are two types of hounds - scent hounds, which follow a scent with their nose, and sight hounds, which follow movement with their eyes and give pursuit. An Afghan hound is a sight hound. It fixes it's eyes on its quarry and gives chase with single-mindedness.

More about the origins of breeds of dogs

These dogs need a big yard where they can run at speed. A high fence is recommended.

Afghans hesitate to befriend strangers but with their own people they are loyal and full of fun. They tend to be unfriendly towards other dogs. 

Large dogs need firm, consistent discipline and training.    

Colour: any

Height: males 68 - 74 cm at shoulder, females 63 - 69 cm

Class: hound

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