Dog Breeds - Afghan Hound

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The degree of affection a breed shows towards family members or familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds might display reserved behavior towards everyone except their owner. In contrast other breeds warmly welcome everyone they recognize, treating them as if they're their closest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
A breed’s capacity for patience and its ability to graciously handle the unpredictable behaviors of children are key indicators of its compatibility with family life. All interactions between dogs and young kids or indeed children of any age not accustomed to dogs should be closely monitored to ensure safety for both parties.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The innate tendency of a breed to be amicable towards fellow canines varies widely. While some breeds exhibit a natural inclination to form friendships with other dogs both within the household and during public encounters others may show less propensity for such interactions. Regardless of a breed's inherent sociability supervision during meetings and introductions with other dogs is crucial to ensure harmonious interactions.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed sheds can significantly impact grooming needs and household maintenance. Breeds known for their high shedding rates necessitate more frequent brushing to manage loose fur, may trigger allergies more readily, and often require more diligent efforts in vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the living environment clean.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming demands of a breed encompassing bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat care vary considerably. When evaluating the grooming effort a breed necessitates it's important to assess your own capacity for time patience and financial resources dedicated to such care. It's crucial to remember that regardless of breed-specific grooming requirements all dogs need regular nail trims to maintain their health and comfort.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
For those who value cleanliness above all, dog breeds that are inclined to leave behind strings of drool on your arm or large moist stains on your clothing may not align with your preferences.
COAT TYPE +
Silky
COAT LENGTH +
Long

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The friendliness of a breed towards unfamiliar faces varies significantly. Certain breeds may display a more reserved or wary demeanor in the presence of strangers regardless of the setting. On the other hand some breeds are always eager to greet a new person with enthusiasm whenever the opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The inclination for playfulness within a breed can persist well beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds maintain a zest for engaging in games like tug-of-war or fetch deep into adulthood whereas others might prefer to spend most of their time lounging on the sofa beside you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The propensity of a breed to notify you of the presence of strangers is notable. These breeds are more prone to respond to perceived threats be it the mailman or a squirrel scampering outside the window. Typically these breeds will become more accommodating to strangers once they observe that their family accepts these individuals into the home.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to change is an important characteristic. This can encompass adjustments in living situations, levels of noise, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training your dog and its eagerness to learn new things varies by breed. Some breeds are highly motivated to please their owners and readily absorb new commands and tricks, while others exhibit a more independent streak, preferring to act on their own terms whenever they choose.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The required levels of physical exercise and mental engagement differ significantly among breeds. High-energy breeds are always on the move, bursting with enthusiasm for their next activity. They dedicate their days to running, leaping, and engaging in play. Conversely, low-energy breeds resemble couch potatoes, content to lounge and nap for extended periods.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency and manner in which a breed vocalizes including barking or howling vary widely. Some breeds may alert every passerby or bird in the window with their barks while others are more selective only vocalizing in specific circumstances. Moreover there are breeds known for being virtually bark less yet they may still communicate using a range of other sounds to express themselves.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The requirement for mental stimulation to maintain a breed’s happiness and health varies significantly. Dogs bred for specific purposes often need tasks that demand decision-making, problem-solving concentration or other cognitive efforts. Without adequate mental exercise they might resort to creating their own activities to occupy their minds. Unfortunately these self-appointed tasks may not align with what you'd prefer underscoring the importance of providing suitable challenges to keep them engaged in constructive ways.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The degree of affection a breed shows towards family members or familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds might display reserved behavior towards everyone except their owner. In contrast other breeds warmly welcome everyone they recognize, treating them as if they're their closest companions.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

A breed’s capacity for patience and its ability to graciously handle the unpredictable behaviors of children are key indicators of its compatibility with family life. All interactions between dogs and young kids or indeed children of any age not accustomed to dogs should be closely monitored to ensure safety for both parties.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The innate tendency of a breed to be amicable towards fellow canines varies widely. While some breeds exhibit a natural inclination to form friendships with other dogs both within the household and during public encounters others may show less propensity for such interactions. Regardless of a breed's inherent sociability supervision during meetings and introductions with other dogs is crucial to ensure harmonious interactions.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed sheds can significantly impact grooming needs and household maintenance. Breeds known for their high shedding rates necessitate more frequent brushing to manage loose fur, may trigger allergies more readily, and often require more diligent efforts in vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the living environment clean.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming demands of a breed encompassing bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat care vary considerably. When evaluating the grooming effort a breed necessitates it's important to assess your own capacity for time patience and financial resources dedicated to such care. It's crucial to remember that regardless of breed-specific grooming requirements all dogs need regular nail trims to maintain their health and comfort.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

For those who value cleanliness above all, dog breeds that are inclined to leave behind strings of drool on your arm or large moist stains on your clothing may not align with your preferences.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Silky

COAT SPECTRUM

Long

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The friendliness of a breed towards unfamiliar faces varies significantly. Certain breeds may display a more reserved or wary demeanor in the presence of strangers regardless of the setting. On the other hand some breeds are always eager to greet a new person with enthusiasm whenever the opportunity arises.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The inclination for playfulness within a breed can persist well beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds maintain a zest for engaging in games like tug-of-war or fetch deep into adulthood whereas others might prefer to spend most of their time lounging on the sofa beside you.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The propensity of a breed to notify you of the presence of strangers is notable. These breeds are more prone to respond to perceived threats be it the mailman or a squirrel scampering outside the window. Typically these breeds will become more accommodating to strangers once they observe that their family accepts these individuals into the home.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to change is an important characteristic. This can encompass adjustments in living situations, levels of noise, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training your dog and its eagerness to learn new things varies by breed. Some breeds are highly motivated to please their owners and readily absorb new commands and tricks, while others exhibit a more independent streak, preferring to act on their own terms whenever they choose.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The required levels of physical exercise and mental engagement differ significantly among breeds. High-energy breeds are always on the move, bursting with enthusiasm for their next activity. They dedicate their days to running, leaping, and engaging in play. Conversely, low-energy breeds resemble couch potatoes, content to lounge and nap for extended periods.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The requirement for mental stimulation to maintain a breed’s happiness and health varies significantly. Dogs bred for specific purposes often need tasks that demand decision-making, problem-solving concentration or other cognitive efforts. Without adequate mental exercise they might resort to creating their own activities to occupy their minds. Unfortunately these self-appointed tasks may not align with what you'd prefer underscoring the importance of providing suitable challenges to keep them engaged in constructive ways.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Black & Tan	018
Black & Silver	016
Blue	037
Blue & Cream	273
Cream	076
Red	140
Silver	176
White	199

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Mask	004
Brindle	051
Brindle Black Mask	069
Brindle Domino	070
Domino	017

About The Breed

The Afghan hound stands out as one of the most visually stunning dog breeds, characterized by a demeanor that is at once aloof and majestic yet capable of showing surprising bouts of goofiness and deep loyalty. This breed's noble appearance belies an ancient lineage renowned for its sophisticated beauty. The Afghan Hound's luxurious, silky coat, which cascades elegantly to the ground, is not merely for aesthetics; it originally served as a protective layer against the severe weather conditions of the mountainous terrains where they were first put to work. Beyond their glamorous facade lies a robust agile hunter, capable of reaching up to 27 inches at the withers designed for enduring the rigors of lengthy hunts. Their large paw pads provided necessary cushioning across their native rugged landscapes. The Afghan Hound is not a breed suited to every dog enthusiast but for those who are the right match this breed offers an unparalleled companionship experience. As noted by a breed expert, "It's not the breed for all would-be dog owners but where the dog and owner combination is right no animal can equal the Afghan hound as a pet."

Anticipating the Needs of Your Afghan Hound: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Sighthounds, including Afghan Hounds, inherently possess lower body fat reserves, making them particularly sensitive to anesthesia. Therefore, it's crucial for owners to choose a veterinarian experienced with sighthounds when their pets require surgery. Additionally akin to other breeds with deep chests Afghan Hounds are susceptible to bloat. This condition, characterized by a rapid and life-threatening expansion of the abdomen requires immediate attention. Owners of such dogs should familiarize themselves with the symptoms of bloat and understand the necessary steps to take in the event it occurs to ensure the health and safety of their pets. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Thyroid Evaluation

Grooming

	Afghan Hound puppies are distinguished by their short fuzzy coats which feature charming facial hair known as "monkey whiskers" necessitating minimal grooming effort. This phase, however does not last long, and as they mature into adolescents and adults Afghans develop their trademark long silky coats that demand considerable grooming attention. Owners should anticipate dedicating several hours each week to brush their Afghan's hair to prevent tangles and mats, as well as to eliminate any collected debris. The focus on maintaining a clean and mat-free coat is essential for preserving the breed's magnificent appearance.

Exercise

	Given that Afghans are sighthounds, specifically bred for their ability to hunt and chase prey using their sight they possess a deeply ingrained instinct to bolt after anything they perceive as prey. This trait makes it risky to walk them off-leash, as they may suddenly run off in pursuit. Merely short walks will not suffice for this athletic breed's exercise needs. Some owners, recognizing the breed's requirements, opt to take their leashed Afghans for lengthy runs once they are fully grown. To truly thrive, Afghans should be given chances to run at full speed on multiple occasions throughout the week. This necessitates access to a large safely enclosed space where they can exercise without restraint. It's important to note that Afghan Hounds are not only tall and lean but also possess considerable strength contributing to their ability as outstanding jumpers. Consequently any exercise enclosure must be secured with a high fence to safely contain these agile and spirited dogs.

Training

	Afghan Hounds possess a unique mixture of independence, dignity and reserve juxtaposed with an enduring affection and loyalty to their bonded humans. This duality can make transitions to new homes complex for adult Afghan Hounds. Their inclination to please however, often aids in their housetraining. For many, the foundational commands like "come," "sit," and "stay" are sufficient for a well-adjusted pet except for those seeking to enter obedience or agility competitions. Enthusiasts of the breed repeatedly voice that the Afghan hound’s natural propensity for chasing is an aspect that training can scarcely mitigate.

Nutrition

	For an Afghan hound, a diet of high-quality dog food, whether it's commercially produced or homemade with a veterinarian's guidance, is conducive to good health. It's important to tailor the diet to the dog's life stage—puppy adult or senior. Remember Afghan Hounds naturally have slender silhouettes and visible hip bones, a breed trait that shouldn't be mistaken for insufficient weight. These energetic and athletic dogs require diets that fulfill their nutritional demands. Familiarize yourself with human foods that are safe for canine consumption and those that aren't. If there are any doubts about your dog's weight or dietary requirements a vet should be consulted. Ensure there's always clean fresh water available for drinking.

Historiography

Renowned as possibly the most ancient of dog breeds, the Afghan Hound's origins are steeped in legend and lore, with some narratives suggesting their presence on Noah's Ark. Embedded in the annals of time the breed's genesis in the mountainous regions now known as Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan remains an enigma. Historically, Afghans distinguished themselves as agile hunters and symbols of opulence among the aristocracy of Asia's elevated realms. Classified as sighthounds for their exceptional visual hunting prowess and quickness, these dogs have been integral to Eastern societies since time immemorial.

The late 19th century marked their Western debut, introduced by English servicemen from the furthest flung outposts of the British Empire. This led to their ascendancy within British aristocratic circles by the early 1900s and their eventual acknowledgment by the American Kennel Club in 1927. Their popularity surged in the United States in the early 1930s, propelled significantly by Zippo Marx's introduction of an English-bred pair. The Afghan Hound's esteemed status in the U.S. is supported by their alluring qualities as domestic pets and their dynamic allure in competitive shows. Pablo Picasso's enormous sculpture of his cherished Afghan Hound, Kabul, in Chicago's Daley Plaza, stands as a tribute to the breed's enduring appeal.