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Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog afghan hound!
Here, you will find all the useful information about afghan hound. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
The Afghan Hound, an ancient breed, traces its origins back to paintings dating back over 2000 years before BC. Its ancestors were likely introduced to the current regions of Afghanistan by nomadic peoples from Central Asia.
Historically, the Afghan Hound of Balkh was primarily used as a hunting dog, thanks to its exceptional speed, allowing it to chase even the swiftest prey.
In the early 20th century, the United Kingdom imported the first specimens of this breed, captivated by their majesty, and many breeders contributed to its development, mainly for dog shows.
The mission was a resounding success in 1907 when the first Afghan Hound triumphantly won the canine competition at Crystal Palace in London, organized by British nobility. This victory sparked widespread enthusiasm for the breed, especially due to its magnificent coat. Breeders then began to place great importance on grooming its long, silky fur.
More than fifty years after this initial exhibition success, the International Canine Federation officially recognized the breed and registered it definitively on December 12, 1961, and its current standard was updated on July 27, 2021.
The Afghan Hound, also known as the Afghan Hound, embodies a graceful and noble appearance that combines power and finesse. It is among the large-sized breeds, with slender legs, clean lines, and a lightweight frame that contrasts with its dense coat, giving it a voluminous appearance. Its length slightly exceeds its height at the withers, giving it a rectangular silhouette.
This hound is a dignified creature, proudly carrying an elongated head that exudes great presence. Its narrow muzzle reveals a moderately marked stop, prominent jaws, and a slightly domed skull. Its back is straight and muscular, its loin is wide and gently slopes towards a medium-length tail adorned with beautiful fringes of fine hair that fold gracefully.
Like all hounds, it has a deep chest, a well-arched abdomen, strong shoulders, and an elegant build. Its main feature is its long, silky coat that covers its entire body. The breed standard accepts all colors and shades.
The temperament of the Afghan Hound is unique, marked by its tranquility and calmness. It is not the most demonstrative dog towards strangers, but it can develop a strong bond with its owner. Initially reserved and timid with strangers, it needs time to establish strong bonds.
To forge a strong connection with an Afghan Hound, patience is required, as this dog has a solitary and independent nature. It may sometimes wander away from its owner due to its strong hunting instinct, without feeling a sense of loss.
Training can be a challenge, even for experienced owners, but success depends on the quality of socialization, consistency, trust, and the bond established between the animal and its owner.
Not inclined to bark, the Afghan Hound is discreet and tolerates solitude well, avoiding anxiety and destructive behavior. Like most hounds, it needs to run and expend energy regularly, enjoying long walks with its owners. Affectionate, independent, and not very expressive, this mysterious dog is perfect for those seeking unique and emotionally rich bonds.
In terms of size, the Afghan Hound generally weighs between 25 and 30 kg (55 to 66 lb) and stands approximately 68 to 74 cm (26.5" to 29") for males and 63 to 69 cm (25" to 27") for females.
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Origins
The Afghan Hound, also known as Tazi or Balkh Hound, is an ancient breed originating from the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. Used primarily for hunting, it was appreciated for its speed, agility, and ability to chase prey in difficult terrain. Its origins date back several millennia, making it one of the oldest and purest breeds. The Afghan Hound was imported to Europe in the early 20th century, where it quickly became popular for its elegance and aristocratic appearance.
History
The history of the Afghan hound is rich and fascinating. Used by nobles and hunters in Afghanistan, it hunted game, gazelles, and even leopards with its speed and endurance. Afghan tribes considered it a national treasure and a status symbol. The breed was introduced to Europe in the early 1900s by British officers returning from India. Its exotic beauty and majestic bearing quickly captivated the European elite. Today, the Afghan hound is appreciated not only for its hunting skills, but also as a companion and show dog.
Standard
The standard for the Afghan Hound breed is defined by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). This dog is distinguished by its aristocratic and elegant appearance. It measures between 68 and 74 cm for males and between 63 and 69 cm for females. The weight generally ranges between 25 and 30 kg. The Afghan Hound has a fine and elongated skull, almond-shaped eyes, often dark in color. The ears are long and well furnished with hair, falling against the head. The body is powerful and muscular, covered with a long silky coat. The tail is long, thin, and slightly curved at the tip.
Physical characteristics
The Afghan Hound is a large, elegant, and powerful dog. Males measure between 68 and 74 cm, while females measure between 63 and 69 cm. Their weight usually ranges between 25 and 30 kg. Their long silky coat is a distinctive feature, requiring regular maintenance. Coat colors can vary, including black, fawn, brindle, and blue. The ears are long and drooping, covered with abundant hair. The Afghan Hound has a noble and distant expression, with almond-shaped eyes that reflect keen intelligence and a certain sweetness.
Character
The Afghan Hound is known for its independent and sometimes distant character. However, it is also affectionate and loyal to its family. This elegant dog is often described as dignified and reserved, but can be very playful and lively when comfortable. Its independent nature can make training a bit challenging, but with patience and positive methods, it can learn basic commands. The Afghan Hound is also very sensitive and does not appreciate harsh training methods. Its intelligence and curious spirit make it a fascinating and unique companion.
Life expectancy
The average lifespan of an Afghan hound is typically 12 to 14 years, which is relatively long for a breed of this size. A balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and good hygiene contribute to this longevity. Like all breeds, it is important to monitor for signs of common illnesses and provide appropriate care throughout the dog's life. Maintaining a healthy weight and adequate level of activity is essential to prevent health problems such as joint dysplasia and heart disease.
Exercise and activity needs
The Afghan Hound is an energetic dog that requires a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Recommended diet
The Afghan hound's diet should be high quality and adapted to its high energy needs. It is recommended to choose premium kibble for large breeds, rich in proteins and essential nutrients. The daily ration should be divided into two meals to avoid the risk of stomach torsion, common in large breeds. The monthly cost of feeding an Afghan hound ranges from 60 to 100 euros. It is important to consult a veterinarian to establish a suitable dietary plan, taking into account the age, weight, activity, and health of the dog.
Training and obedience
Education and training Afghan hounds require patience and consistency. Their independent and sometimes stubborn nature can make training challenging. Using positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, is essential to capture their attention and encourage desired behaviors. It is important to start training at a young age to establish good habits. Early socialization is also crucial for developing a well-balanced dog. Short and varied sessions, focusing on playful exercises, will help maintain their interest and prevent boredom.
Behavior with children
The Afghan Hound can be an excellent companion for children, thanks to its gentle and affectionate nature. However, due to its independence and sensitivity, it is important to teach children to respect the dog and to interact with him appropriately. Afghan Hounds are generally patient, but they can be reserved with overly boisterous or rough children. Constant supervision is recommended to ensure that interactions are positive and safe. With proper socialization and training, the Afghan Hound can become a loving and protective member of the family.
Compatibility with Other Animals
The Afghan hound can get along well with other pets, especially if socialized from a young age. However, its hunting instinct can sometimes pose challenges, especially with small animals like cats or rodents. A gradual and supervised introduction is essential to ensure harmonious cohabitation. With other dogs, the Afghan hound can be playful and friendly, but may also be reserved. Supervision during initial meetings and ongoing socialization will help develop positive relationships with other animals.
Grooming needs
The Afghan Hound has quite demanding grooming needs due to its long and silky coat. Regular brushing, at least two to three times a week, is necessary to prevent knots and tangles. During shedding periods, daily brushing may be required. Baths should be given regularly to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the coat, using gentle shampoos suitable for dogs. It is also important to regularly check and clean the ears, trim the nails, and maintain good oral hygiene to prevent health issues.
Health
The Afghan hound is generally healthy, but like all breeds, it is predisposed to certain medical conditions. Common health problems include hip dysplasia, eye problems such as cataracts, and stomach torsion. Regular veterinary monitoring is essential to detect and treat these problems as early as possible. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper maintenance also help maintain the overall health of the Afghan hound. Responsible breeders conduct health tests on their breeding animals to minimize the risks of hereditary diseases.
Average price
The average price of an Afghan hound puppy varies depending on several factors, including the breeder's reputation, the puppy's lineage, and the region. In general, an Afghan hound puppy costs between 1000 and 2500 euros. Reputable breeders, who conduct health tests on their breeding dogs and raise their puppies in good conditions, may justify higher prices. It is crucial to choose a responsible breeder to ensure the health and well-being of the puppy. In addition to the initial cost, it is important to budget for veterinary care, food, and grooming.
Expenses
Annual expenses for an Afghan hound can vary considerably depending on many factors, such as food, veterinary care, maintenance, and activities. On average, these expenses can be estimated between 1200 and 1800 euros (approximately 1400 to 2100 dollars) per year. This budget includes food costs, grooming, regular veterinary fees (such as vaccinations and annual check-ups), and necessary accessories such as toys, leashes, and beds. Expenses may increase in case of unexpected veterinary care or participation in specific activities such as training courses or competitions.
Name ideas
Choosing a name for your Afghan Hound can be fun and meaningful. For example, "Zara" means "princess" in Arabic, reflecting the nobility and elegance of the breed. "Kashmir" evokes the mountainous region of India, reminding of the dog's origins. "Sultan" means "king" in Arabic, perfect for a majestic dog. "Luna" means "moon" in Latin, symbolizing grace and beauty. "Zephyr" means "gentle wind", reflecting speed and agility. "Raja" means "king" in Hindi, "Diva" for an elegant female, "Tara" means "star" in Sanskrit, "Bliss" for her serene nature, and "Echo" for his mystical appearance.
Legislation and regulation
The Afghan Hound is not classified as a dangerous breed in France and does not require any specific declaration. However, it is essential to comply with local laws regarding dog ownership, such as registering with local authorities, mandatory rabies vaccination, and identification with a microchip. In general, regulations for this breed are similar worldwide. It is always advisable to check local and national regulations to ensure legal compliance and avoid any potential issues.
Official recognition
The Afghan Hound is recognized by several canine organizations around the world. In France, it is recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC). The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) has also officialized this breed under standard number 228. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC) also recognize the Afghan Hound. In the United Kingdom, it is recognized by the Kennel Club (KC). In Afghanistan, its country of origin, the official club is the Afghan Hound Club of America (AHCA), which plays a crucial role in the preservation and promotion of the breed.
Pedigrees
Pedigrees for Afghan Hounds are available from several recognized breed clubs. In France, the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) issues pedigrees to dogs registered in the LOF (French Book of Origins). In Afghanistan, the Afghan Hound Club of America (AHCA) maintains a breed registry. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC) also provide pedigrees for this breed. Other clubs include the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) in Canada. These organizations ensure the authenticity and purity of the bloodlines.
Destination and usage
Historically, the Afghan Hound was used for hunting because of its speed, endurance and agility. It hunted prey such as gazelles and hares in the mountainous terrains of Afghanistan. Today, in addition to its hunting skills, the Afghan Hound is widely appreciated as a companion and show dog thanks to its elegant and majestic appearance. Its exotic beauty and distinguished look make it a favorite in dog show rings. Furthermore, it is also used in some dog sports, such as greyhound racing and agility.
Prohibitions
The Afghan hound is not subject to any particular restrictions in most countries. However, it is always important to comply with local and national laws regarding dog ownership. For example, some regulations may require registration, vaccination, and identification by microchip. In France and many other countries, the Afghan hound is considered a non-dangerous breed, making it easier to own. Nonetheless, it is advisable to check the specific regulations in each country or region to avoid any potential issues.
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