The Afghan Hound Dog Breed

Country of Origin: The Afghan Hound originated in Afghanistan

Height of the Afghan Hound: In the USA males 26-28", females 24-26"; in Europe and Australia males 27-29", females 25-27".

Weight: Afghan Hound males weigh 55-65 lbs, females 45-55 lbs.

Description: The Afghan Hound is one of the most distinctive members of the greyhound family. Clothed in long silky hair, and with a long slender head crowned by a flowing topknot, this dog breed's appearance is eyecatching and exotic. The Afghan Hound's ancestors were hunters in the mountains and deserts of their native land, and from them he inherited his long legs, large feet and athletic body. The Afghan Hound is in the Hound group.

Colors: The Afghan Hound comes in a wide variety of colors which include solid black or blue, black and tan, red,

Coat: The Afghan Hound is a high maintenance breed and requires regular grooming and bathing. They are not seasonal shedders, because their hair has to stay on the dog for a long time in order to grow to its full length,. They have very little oil in their coats so they don’t have “doggy” odor.

Temperament: The adult Afghan Hound has a royal bearing and may be aloof and dignified but should never be shy. With his family he can be a clown and very affectionate. They are intelligent watchdogs and do not bark just to make a noise. Training an Afghan Hound can be a challenge - they learn very quickly but then have to be convinced that there is a purpose behind what they have learned! Reward training works well with an Afghan Hound. They are sighthounds and will chase live game, so off leash exercise should be restricted to safely fenced areas.

Health Concerns: The Afghan Hound is a generally healthy breed and the incidence of hereditary problems is low. Cases of hip dysplasia, juvenile cataract and hypothyroidism do occur, but the percentage is fortunately small.

Life Expectancy: The Afghan Hound can life expectancy is about 13-15 years.

Living Environment: Afghan Hounds are very easy to live with and adults are equally at home in a mansion, a townhouse or an apartment. Dogs that do not have a fenced yard in which to run will need plenty of exercise and walks to the local park. Puppies are not recommended for apartment dwellers.