Hounds Dog Group - Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is an ancient breed, said by legend to have been one of the animals taken aboard Noah's Ark at the time of the flood! This member of the Greyhound family, possibly related to the Saluki, has certainly existed for centuries. Its ancestors somehow found their way from their original home in Persia (Iran) to Afghanistan, where the breed undoubtedly developed its long, shaggy coat to withstand the harsh climatic conditions. Its speed and stamina meant that, in its native land, it was used to hunt leopards, wolves, and jackals. It is only in the West that it has become a status symbol.

Coat: Long and fine.

Color: All colors acceptable.

Features: Head long and not too narrow; eyes preferably dark, but golden not debarred; ears set low and well back; level back; tail not too short.

Size: Height: dogs 27 in, bitches 25 in. Weight: dogs 60 lb, bitches 50 lb.

Care: Requires plenty of exercise. The coat should be groomed with an air-cushioned brush and will soon become matted if it is not given sufficient and regular attention.

Character: The Afghan is an elegant, beautiful, and affectionate dog, which is generally good naturcd but docs not tolerate teasing. It is intelligent but somewhat aloof.