Afghan Hounds

Afghan hounds are distinct by their long, narrow snout and large, longhaired bodies. They are often described as regal. Afghan hounds are sometimes called Tazi and Baluchi. The Afghan hound is originally from Afghanistan where it was bred as a hunting dog. They are related to Greyhounds. This is a old dog breed, having been mentioned in Egyptian writings over four thousand years ago.

Afghan hounds are among the most independent dog breeds, though there is much diversity of temperament among Afghan hounds. This dog breed usually gets along with other dogs and children. They may need supervision around smaller animals especially until their reaction is known.

An Afghan hound requires daily exercise. The Afghan hound should have at least half an hour of exercise daily. If a yard is to be used for part of the Afghan’s exercise, the fence needs to be high. Afghan hounds are excellent jumpers and may escape a fenced yard if the fence is not high. Afghan hounds can be useful watchdogs due to their tendency to bark at strangers and because of their size.

Owning an Afghan hound has challenges. Afghan hounds can be picky eaters. They can be resistant to training. Housebreaking this dog breed can be difficult. They require early socialization and consistent training. The ear canals also need to be cleaned frequently. People with allergies may have difficulty living with this breed since the Afghan hound can shed heavily.

Due to their long hair, Afghan hounds require regular, extensive grooming that can take four hours a week. The hair of the posterior region of Afghan hounds needs regular trimming for hygiene reasons. Weekly bathing is often recommended especially if the dog is to participate in dog shows. Brushing an Afghan hounds between baths and trimming the coat is not recommended if the dog is to be a show dog.

Afghan hounds typically weigh fifty to sixty pounds and are twenty-five to twenty-eight inches tall. Afghan hounds typically live to be ten to fourteen years old. Some lines of Afghan hounds include autoimmune disorders, hypersensitivity to medication, thyroid problems, and OCD.