The Afghan Hound is the oldest of all the sighthounds. They were once the dog breed most valued by nomad Chieftains for tracking and hunting of deer, wild goats, wolves and even snow leopards. Though they are lean and almost delicate in appearance, they are a powerful dog, of good stamina and with an indomitable spirit when it comes to the hunt.

Like all the sighthounds, the Afghan Hound is quiet and sensitive, dignified and gentle. They are affectionate with their family, but most are suspicious of strangers and can be rather aloof and almost snotty with company. Those looking for a social butterfly, this is not the breed for you.

The Afghan Hound is definitely not an easy keeper and is best for those who have experience with dogs. Training should be patient and firm and should never include any type of brutality. They were at one time independent workers and still maintain that nature today and may simply ignore commands they do not want to follow. Those that hit this dog are looking for trouble as they could retaliate. They respond best to positive reward focused training. When mistreated the Afghan Hound can become skittish and distrustful.

The Afghan Hound does have a playful side and is a real joy to see romping through the park. They are elegant and sweet-natured and fit well into both a city or country home. A dog breed both beautiful in appearance and temperament.

CHILDREN: The Afghan Hound is not always the most patient of dogs and running screaming youngsters may be too much for them to handle. They are best in an all adult home or one with older calm children.

OTHER ANIMALS: The Afghan Hound is usually good with other dogs but due to his hunting heritage can not be trusted around small animals like rabbits and rodents. Some will do fine with cats, others won’t.

EXERCISE: The Afghan Hound is a sight hound, which means they hunted prey by sight. Sight hounds are capable of short fast burst of speed. Fortunately they are easy to exercise as long as there is a safe enclosed area where they can run. Care should always be taken when allowing them off lead as they are a chaser and could be gone in seconds. They are also great fence jumpers. They make wonderful jogging and bicycling companions and do well in lure coursing trials. Some enjoy participating in agility and obedience trials and many do well in Conformation shows.

HEALTH: Like all sighthounds, the Afghan Hound is very sensitive to drugs and should never be given them unnecessary. They are prone to hip dysplasia, cancer, cataracts, paralysis and allergies. They adapt well to any climate, hot or cold.

APPEARANCE/COAT CARE: The Afghan Hound has an air of elegance and nobility. Their beautiful long coat takes a lot of dedication, needing brushing every other day to keep it tat free. They are 25-29 inches at their withers and between 50-60 pounds. Their coat comes in brown, black, grey, wheaten, cream or silver.