Afghan Hound
🧠 Temperament & character
The Afghan Hound is dignified, independent and often aloof towards strangers, but loyally bonded to his person. Indoors he shows himself calm, composed and almost cat-like self-reliant, outdoors, however, his pronounced hunting drive awakens. He is sensitive and proud and cannot be led by coercion, but only by respect and patience. Anyone who understands his reserved, strong-willed nature finds in him an affectionate and sensitive companion.
📜 Origin & history
The Afghan Hound is a very old breed that was coursed over centuries in the mountains and deserts of Afghanistan on gazelles, hares and other game. Its long coat protected it from the extreme temperature fluctuations of the mountains, while its agility enabled it to hunt in rough terrain. At the beginning of the 20th century British officers brought the first animals to Europe, where the breed quickly advanced to an elegant show and companion dog. Today the Afghan is kept above all as a family, show and coursing dog.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The Afghan Hound's long, silky coat is very demanding and must be brushed thoroughly several times a week to avoid matting. As a sighthound he needs the regular opportunity to gallop in a securely fenced area and to indulge his joy of movement. Because of the strong hunting drive he should mostly be led on the leash outdoors, and the recall is only conditionally reliable, even with patience. He is intelligent but independent; training works best with sensitivity, short sessions and without any coercion.
🩺 Health
The Afghan Hound is basically robust and reaches an age of about twelve to fourteen years. Like many sighthounds, he reacts sensitively to anaesthetics because of his low body fat content, which is why a sighthound-experienced vet is important. Among the breed-specific risks are juvenile cataract and hypothyroidism. Responsible breeders have the eyes examined and the thyroid values checked and pay attention to a balanced nature in their breeding animals.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Afghan Hound suits experienced, patient dog owners who appreciate his independence and do not expect a submissive 'order-taker'. He needs sufficient space, safe running opportunities and people who invest time in the elaborate coat care; for first-time owners he is rather unsuitable. Indoors he is calm and adapts even to larger apartments, provided he gets enough exercise. In Switzerland his hunting drive and the leash requirement in many cantons and near wildlife should be borne in mind.