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Afghan Hound

Afghan Hound

A noble, dignified-looking hound, the Afghan Hound stands proudly and elegantly, with their long, lustrous coat as their crowning glory.

The need-to-know
  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids

Key Facts

Lifespan: 12–14 years
Weight: 20–27kg
Height: 63–74cm
Colours: The glorious coat comes in all colours – from black to silver, with every colour, pattern and combination in between!
Size: Large
Kennel Club group: Hound

Ratings

Family-friendly: 5/5
Exercise needs: 4/5
Easy to train: 1/5
Tolerates being alone: 2/5
Likes other pets: 3/5
Energy level: 5/5
Grooming needs: 2/5
Shedding: 4/5

Personality

Often aloof with strangers, early socialisation is a must for this regal dog, as is early puppy training. With their family and those they know, there’s no hint of standoffishness – they are wonderfully loyal and loving - and a bit of a clown.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Afghanistan

Possibly the most glamourous of the sighthounds, the Afghan is probably a descendant of the Saluki brought to Afghanistan from Persia. As the climate in Afghanistan can be punishing - especially in the mountains, the dogs developed a longer coat as protection as they worked pursuing a variety of prey of all sizes including hare, gazelles, wolves and even snow leopards.

The dogs were highly prized by the Afghan nomads who would gather together every year for a festival to celebrate their dogs and would dress them with traditional necklaces and flowers.

The earliest Afghans appeared in the UK in the 1920s but thanks to their glamorous appearance, they soon became extremely popular.

Did you know?

  • Given their speed, Afghan Hounds have been tried out on traditional greyhound tracks - but without much success. Being smart and resourceful they see no point in running round the outside of the track when they can just cut across the middle and head the prey off without any effort.
  • The Afghan Hound is one of the oldest dog breeds and legend has it that this breed was one of the animals rescued on Noah’s Ark.
  • This is one of the fastest ever dog breeds and can reach speeds up to 40mph.
  • Afghan Hounds were one of Picasso’s favourite dog breeds.
  • They have scent glands in their cheeks which produces a musky odour which is said to be quite pleasant!

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