Afghan Hound

Name: Afghan Hound
Official name: Afghan Hound
FCI Number: 228

It is a tall dog giving the impression of strength, dignity and speed. It has a medium-long torso, straight back and muscular deep chest. The long but not too narrow head is carried proudly. His facial expression is elevated and exotic, sometimes even giving the impression that he is looking 'through a man'. His ears are long, low-hanging, covered with silky fur and pressed against his head. Its legs are long and strong. The tail is not very short, low set, curled at the end and carried high in movement.

Character of the Afghan Hound

It is an independent, lively, friendly and sensitive dog that both likes and demands human attention. He inherited a more violent temper from his ancestors, but unlike them he is more disciplined and easier to train. He requires plenty of exercise to maintain his physical and mental condition.

Height of the Afghan Hound

There is no set weight limit, but the average weight ranges from 23 to 27 kg.

The coat of the Afghan Hound

Very long and silky coat, except on the back and face, where it is short and close-fitting.

Coat colour

All coat colours are acceptable.

History of the Afghan Hound

This breed is very old, its depiction can be found in four thousand year old Afghan paintings. It probably originated in the Middle East, from which it came to Afghanistan, where it was used for hunting gazelles and wolves. It did not reach Europe until the second half of the 19th century and its standard was recognised in the first decade of the 20th century.

Advantages - why get an Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is a fascinating breed with many advantages. Its beautiful and long coat, along with its aristocratic appearance, attracts attention and makes it a great companion for owners who appreciate its aesthetics. Afghans are calm and independent dogs that are loyal to their family and have a gentle nature. They are intelligent and enjoy the company of their people, making them a great companion for both quiet households and those who enjoy an active outdoor life.

Disadvantages - why not get an Afghan Hound

The first of the disadvantages is the demanding care of their long coat, which requires regular and careful brushing and maintenance. This process can be time-consuming and require patience and experience to care for the coat. Afghans are also known for their independent nature and can be prone to stubbornness, which can make training difficult. They also have a strong hunting instinct and may chase smaller animals or attempt to escape, which is important to consider in their outdoor training and safety precautions.