The characteristics of the Afghan Hound

For us, the Afghan Hound is the perfect family and companion dog. Unfortunately, over the years, many prejudices have arisen about this breed, which have not been true for us at all. We have had many dog breeds, from mixed-breed dogs to Labradors, Rottweilers, Dogo Argentinians and Great Danes, and we have found that an Afghan Hound is just as easy or difficult as these breeds. Our conclusion is that the Afghan Hound is completely undervalued and much too good to just be brushed. Like any other breed of dog, it has its advantages and disadvantages. However, these depend solely on the wishes of the owner. 

For us, the Afghan Hound is characterised by the following qualities:

• The Afghan Hound is not a yapper, although it will watch over its home and property.
• It reacts rather cautiously towards strangers, without becoming aggressive.
• The Afghan Hound is very docile. Depending on its aptitude, it is also used for various dog sports and occasionally as a therapy dog.
• The Afghan Hound is very intelligent, but it cannot be trained or tricked with treats. It will do anything for its master or mistress if they understand it.
• The Afghan Hound is a very proud and elegant dog, which it expresses in its movement and appearance.
• The Afghan Hound is very adaptable and willingly does everything. The main thing is to be with his family.
• The Afghan Hound does not need to be occupied for hours on end. It is a sprinter. Therefore, it is enough for it to be able to let off steam for a short time and then return to being the perfect, quiet house dog.
• The Afghan Hound is odourless and hardly sheds any hair. It has no undercoat and no oil-producing fur.
• The Afghan Hound is very compatible with other dog breeds. Most of them do not interest it.

The following should be considered before buying an Afghan Hound:

• The Afghan Hound is a sprinter and not an endurance dog. It is not suitable for hours of cycling or endurance sports.
• The Afghan Hound is not suitable as a kennel or yard dog. It wants to be with its family.
• Ideally, the Afghan Hound has a fenced garden. With enough exercise, it can also be kept in an apartment.
• The Afghan Hound is a hunting dog and therefore cannot run freely everywhere. For a dog to run freely, you need a lot of dog sense or experience with hunting dog breeds.
• The Afghan Hound needs grooming. Since it does not have a greasy coat and long hair, regular bathing and grooming with the appropriate conditioner are essential. Of course, you can also visit a dog groomer for this. Details can be found under ‘Care’.
• Afghan Hounds/sighthounds have different blood values than other dogs. Therefore, it is important to choose a veterinarian who is familiar with sighthounds.

Conclusion:

The Afghan Hound should be integrated into the family's daily life. This is the best way to ensure that you will have a pleasant, friendly dog that is admired by everyone.