Afghan Hound Breed Description

An Owner's Afghan Hound Description
Gracey is a wonderfully built and elegant animal. Her elegance cause many to think that Gracey comes from the city and with her nose up in the air lives within the walls of a fifth avenue penthouse. But truth be told; she really isn't much of city girl. She's very athletic and loves to run. In fact, she loves to romp and play so much that the city life really doesn't suit her well at all.

Gracey can be somewhat spirited, stubborn and even a bit defiant at times. Because of that, training requires a firm hand. She can even become depressed when I don't give her the needed attention. But what I really like about Gracey is her affectionate way and her sensitive personality. Perhaps this is why she is not particularly protective when strangers come around. Rather, Gracey can be reserved and shy, even a little timid. But when she's in her comfort zone at home, she'll relax and get a little goofy. She'll roll around and with her hair across her eyes, act a bit ditzy.

As much love as she requires, she gives in return. Although Afghans, in general, don't care much for kids, they love their owners and sincerely look forward to their daily exercise routine. Gracey absolutely loves to jump and will display her skill by running and leaping over the lawn furniture. When I do take Gracey for a walk in the city, I make sure she is always on a leash. That way I know we will return together. The time we spend together brushing her long luxurious coat gives us girls much needed time to bond and talk about who really lives in that penthouse.

 

 

Introduction

Afghan Hounds are known for their flowing, silky coat and exotic features. Part of the Greyhound family, these dogs were first discovered in Afghanistan and India. Their widely spaced hip joints enable them to travel with agility and speed to bring down deer, antelope, wolves and snow leopards. These dogs stand 27" at the shoulders. Weekly grooming is needed to maintain their long coat They are aloof and dignified, yet fun loving.

History

These sight hounds are instantly recognizable thanks to their long flowing hair and the circular ring on the end of their tail. Afghans are the most ancient of their kind, with little divergence from wolves according to recent genetic research. The breed didn't leave its home of origin until British soldiers brought dogs back to the U.K. in the late 1800s. In the early 1900s, two different breed strains arose thanks to the efforts of dedicated kennel owners; eventually the breed lines converged and the standard was created in 1948.

Description

Tall and graceful, Afghans are noble looking animals with a naturally regal bearing. Their long silky hair, large feet and pointed muzzle combine to produce an overall quality of elegance. The AKC standard permits all colors, but notes that white on the head is undesirable.

They are arresting when running, as they maintain a strong posture, yet they have a floating gait that contains a natural 'spring' to the movement. The flow of their hair when in motion is also a trademark of the breed.

Temperament

Afghan owners are devoted and many have asserted that they are uniquely human in many ways. True or not, the dogs routinely are deemed slow when tested for obedience aptitude. Yet trainers note that with positive reinforcement, they learn as well as most other breeds. Whatever level of training an owner works toward, they quickly discover that their Afghan has a sense of humor largely unparalleled by other dogs. This alone may account for the 'humanity' many perceive in dealing with these beautiful animals.

Health and Care

Grooming is a constant necessity for Afghan Hounds and there are no shortcuts to the task. Daily brushing and combing is mandatory for their coat to look its best. Skipping the task even briefly can result in snarls and knots that are nearly impossible to remove. The coat should never be trimmed or cut. The top knot is one of the more notable breed characteristics.

In addition, Afghan Hounds require daily exercise. Like several other large breeds, they can be easily content in a small space presuming they have a daily outlet to expend energy and keep in shape.

Sources

The American Kennel Club, Wikipedia,The Afghan Hound Club of America

Colors

all colors and patterns acceptable but white on the face or body is considered very undesirable.

Living Area

The Afghan Hound needs large spaces to be able to run and exercise. They can tolerate apartments provided they have lots of exercise but do best in a house with a large fenced yard.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

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