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Classification Origin : Afghanistan
FCI classification : group 10 - greyhounds; section 1 - long-haired greyhounds
Use: hunting dog
Color: black, white, black and white, beige, red, blue, silver
Dimensions: Males - 68-74 cm, females - 63-69 cm, body weight - 20-30 kg
Lifespan: 10-12 years
The Afghan Hound is one of the most ancient hunting dog breeds. These are very brave and devoted pets with a stately and proud appearance.
The dog's ancestors differed in many ways from today's Afghan hound: they were more aggressive and did not have such attractive appearance.
This dog breed also has other names: Afghan, Bakhmul, Afghan Italian Greyhound.
In Afghanistan, the Afghan hound is called Tazi, which means “fast running”.
- 2 Application
- 3 Description
- 4 Psychology
- 5 How to choose a puppy
- 6 Features of care
- 7 Combing
- 8 Bathing
- 9 Walk
- 10 Food
- 11 Health
- 12 Characteristic diseases
- 13 Vaccinations
- 14 Mating
Description of the Afghan Hound breed
Popularity 154th place among 263 dog breeds
Lifespan:
11-13 years old
Breed group:
Greyhounds
Height:
males: 65-74 cm, females: 60-70 cm
Country of origin:
Afghanistan
Average price:
20-30 thousand rubles
Weight:
males: 20-25 kg, females: 15-20 kg
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Key facts
The Afghan Hound is an ancient hunting dog with long hair and a friendly, calm character. This breed is called one of the most intelligent: it will never fight with the owner of the house for primacy or win a bone in the yard. Other breed names are allowed: Afghan (or Afghan for males), Afghan Shepherd, Bakhmul, Kabuli, Baluchi.
Nowadays, dogs of this breed often live in apartments, which is why they are called indoor dogs, but they perfectly remember their natural essence. Afghans have always been excellent hunters. A hundred years ago, this breed was used to catch foxes, wolves and small animals.
What nicknames are suitable for your new friend? Focus on the distinctive characteristics of the breed. The characteristics of the Afghan Hound breed are aristocracy, speed, agility, cheerful disposition, flair, and strength. Based on these qualities, you can name the dog.
The description of the Afghan Hound breed includes not only information about the character and behavior, but also about external data. This is a very sophisticated dog with relatively good health. With proper care, the life expectancy of an Afghan Hound will be 11-13 years.
Bathing
Dogs taking part in exhibitions are washed once a week. Other pets need less frequent bathing.
To carry out the procedure, use shampoo and conditioner for smooth-haired dogs. Wash the dog in a lying position.
After bathing, the pet's fur is dried with a towel and then styled with a hairdryer.
With proper care, your dog's coat will always be beautiful.
History of the origin of the Afghan hound
The name of the breed seems to indicate the country of origin, but not everything is so simple. There is still no definitive evidence that Afghanistan was the homeland of the Afghan hound. This type of dog was first brought to Western Europe in the 19th century, immediately after a series of Anglo-Afghan wars. Members of the British Army took these fast, hunting dogs home with them as souvenirs.
The animals immediately took root and were loved for their incredibly elegant appearance, speed, and success in hunting. The first breed standard was adopted in 1925, later a final version was proposed, which was approved only in 1987.
It is not known exactly when the breed was developed. Almost all ancient writings contained pictures of tall, long-haired dogs that strongly resembled the Afghan hound. Perhaps representatives of the breed existed when the ancient peoples did not yet know how to write.
There is an opinion that greyhounds came to Afghanistan thanks to the victories of Alexander the Great. He came with an army to this land and brought hunting dogs. In the same way, representatives of the breed reached India and China.
Even in the Bible there are references to the ancestors of the Bakhmuls. Noah is described as taking Afghan hounds with him on the ark. Genetic tests have revealed that the Afghan hound, Saluki and 12 other types of dogs are most similar to the ancient wolf. Particular reverence for the breed is expressed in the Koran: for Muslims, dogs are dirty animals, but the Afghan hound is allowed entry into the house.
Appearance of an Afghan Hound
The Afghani is a long-legged aristocratic beauty, her chic costume consists of a long satin cloak and flared trousers. A proudly raised head and royal posture attract the eye. All this creates a stunning overall impression - before you is the real queen of all dogs. To be completely captivated by the elegance of the Afghan, you need to watch it in motion. This cannot be seen in the photo of an Afghan hound. The coat flowing as you run will not leave anyone indifferent.
Head
It has an elongated long skull and always a distinctly pointed muzzle.
Neck
Sufficiently long, strong, the head rests on it with a proud posture.
Torso
Always well built, slightly elongated, level back of medium length. The muscles are well developed, the lower back is straight, the croup is sloping at the bottom. The ribs are of the correct shape. Elegance is combined with strength.
Forelegs
Long, powerful shoulder blades, not too rough, elbows close to the body.
Hind limbs
Stronger than the front ones, widely spaced, toes covered with long strands of hair. Hock joints with prominent angles.
Tail
It has a low set, little hair, and the curled end distinguishes the breed. Stays high when running.
Movement
Loose, soft, smooth, slightly springy. A characteristic feature is that the fur flutters beautifully in waves.
Wool
Very long, silky. The main part is guard hair; it partially covers the back, shoulders, and muzzle. The hairs on the muzzle are quite short, they gradually lengthen starting from the forehead. Other parts of the body are covered with soft hair, which is the undercoat.
Color
All types of Afghan Hound colors are allowed, except for variations with white spots on the head - this is a sign of non-compliance with the standard.
Size
The height of the Afghan hound is 63-74 cm, the weight of Afghan hounds reaches 20-30 kg. Males are slightly larger than females. At shows, judges look primarily at body type. The size of the Afghan hound in this case fades into the background if the dog looks harmonious.
Afghan hound personality
How does the character of the Afghan Hound differ from other breeds, and who is this dog suitable for?
The Afghan Hound is endowed with a wayward character, pride, and some stubbornness. On the street she will be careful and reserved with strangers. In the house he does not participate in the struggle for primacy. She plays with her owner when she sees fit.
Other animals will be unpleasant neighbors for the Afghan Hound. Dogs can be jealous of family members towards cats and rodents. If you get a dog and already have other pets at home, they will be able to get along well in the future. But mice and guinea pigs are extremely undesirable, since the Afghan hound may develop a hunting instinct.
A puppy is very different in its behavior, while an adult dog is careful in its emotions. The baby will constantly lick his lips, play, and ask for affection. Of course, each dog has a unique character: when purchasing a new pet, you can become the owner of a modest quiet dog or a touchy beech.
Communication with small children can be a problem: noise and loud pampering will irritate the greyhound. The Afghan will not express anger, rather he will be afraid, since fearfulness is characteristic of them. Due to their great sensitivity to pain, dogs will not be able to tolerate abuse.
Living in an apartment is possible, but Afghans love very intense exercise. This is necessary to maintain mental health. Living indoors will be tiring if you don't provide plenty of outdoor space to play around with. Even in winter, outside, the greyhound is ready to run around and play for a long time thanks to its long coat, which warms it.
Assess in advance whether it will be convenient for you to keep an Afghan hound at home. The breed is suitable for active and athletic people who can create decent living conditions for such a dog.
If you are still in doubt about your choice, look at photos and videos of the Afghan hound, talk to the owners on the forums, so the choice will be more balanced.
Walk
Due to the built-in hunting instinct, the Afghan hound can attack a cat or even a flying bird. Therefore, when walking in public places, the dog should be kept on a leash with a harness and, best of all, with a muzzle.
The ideal option would be to walk the animal outside the city, where the pet can run around and play enough.
Important! The dog of this breed is accustomed to a cool mountain climate. Physical activity and walking in hot weather are dangerous for an Afghan's health.
During walks, the Afghan needs to ensure communication with other large breeds. This has a good effect on the animal’s psyche and makes it more balanced.
Education and training
Raising and training an Afghan hound has its own characteristics. Some people think that she is difficult to train. But this is not so, more often the point is precisely the dog’s peculiar stubbornness, which can be overcome. How to raise an active puppy into an adequate dog? Is it possible to make an Afghan Hound obedient? It is possible, with due patience and consistent training.
Raising an Afghan is suitable for an experienced owner; it will require some knowledge and skills. If you decide to do this on your own, take a short training course and get advice from a dog handler. Only experience will help you conquer a strong, stubborn character, and the advice of a specialist will be very useful.
Training should begin as soon as the puppy is home. There is no need to make allowances because of his small age - the dog must immediately get used to the rules, only in this case he will soon become trained and well-mannered. Commands should be learned as quickly as possible, and be sure to train with your pet every day. Important commands will be “no”, “to me”, “near”, “place”. The commands “sit”, “lie down”, “stand” are relevant for city dogs.
While walking, you may encounter trouble: your hound suddenly decides to chase a running cat. What will she do? She will run very quickly, as the pursuer instinct has awakened in her. To avoid such troubles, you need to teach her to follow commands and approach the owner on demand. Training and each exercise are performed as often as possible, your dog should hear and obey you the first time.
In summer and spring, in any good weather, allow your Afghan Hound to spend more time outside. Remember: the breed was created for running, let the animal splash out its energy. Make sure that there are no small children or roadways nearby; it is advisable to choose a forested area or a secluded part of the park where your pet will not scare anyone. In winter and autumn, you should also not forget about walks, but remember that washing luxurious wool from dirt and slush is not an easy task.
How to teach your child to be clean and go to the toilet correctly? You need to get down to business as soon as the puppy appears at your home. After sleeping, feeding, and playing, be sure to take him out into the yard, and if the baby has done his business, praise him. If you see that the puppy has started to get nervous at home, go outside with him again, you need to do the same, even if he has already made a puddle in the room.
What to do if a dog chews furniture, new shoes, expensive glasses, children's toys - how to wean your pet from such sabotage? Usually dogs start spoiling things if they are very lonely, have a lot of unspent energy, are teething, and there are no dog toys around. Buy special bones and toys at a pet store, walk the puppy more, gradually teach him that he should be left alone.
Show attention and love to the Afghan hound: only with affection and patience can you find mutual understanding. A harsh attitude and constant punishment can only aggravate the difficult character, and it will not be easy to establish a good relationship with your pet.
Price
The price category of this breed is average. Fans of hunting dogs can purchase them not only in kennels, but also secondhand, that is, from breeders who work for themselves. The price of an Afghan hound with a veterinary passport and all documentation is 35-55 thousand rubles.
If a breeder refuses to provide a passport for a dog, you should think about whether it may have health problems. Some famous adult males that take prizes at exhibitions are more expensive, about 60 thousand rubles.
Afghan Hound Health and Diseases
Possible diseases
The health of Afghan hounds is quite strong; the breed is not afraid of simple drafts. However, there are predispositions to certain diseases, some of which put the dog’s life at risk. Be careful and seek medical help immediately if necessary.
Diseases of Afghan hounds:
- volvulus and stomach problems;
- chylothorax (accumulation of lymph in the chest area);
- dermatitis, eczema, demodicosis;
- cataract, retinal degeneration;
- cardiomyopathy.
Problems with the gastrointestinal tract are common.
The reason lies in weak ligaments that support the internal organs. In case of intestinal volvulus, immediate veterinary assistance will be required. Most dogs are saved by surgery. For prevention, it is recommended to feed the Afghan hound strictly after a walk. Like all large breeds, the Afghan Hound's weak point is its joints. Diseases of the musculoskeletal system are common in adult dogs, and this is due to a genetic factor. When purchasing, find out whether the puppy’s parents have similar diseases.
A low pain threshold makes Afghans suffer greatly from injuries; any scratch brings them pain. The thing that suffers most during a walk is the tail, which clings to the branches. At home, inspect and wash paws if there is a risk of cuts or wounds. Check your teeth for tartar, it is the cause of many dental ailments. A dog's face will often indicate the presence of skin diseases. To reduce the likelihood of health hazards, dogs should be vaccinated on a strict schedule. Vaccinations must be administered by a qualified professional. At home, carefully monitor your pet; allergies to vaccines occur not only in people, but also in dogs.
List of diseases against which it is necessary to vaccinate an Afghan woman:
- plague;
- rabies;
- leptospirosis;
- trichophytosis;
- infectious hepatitis;
- parainfluenza;
- coronavirus.
Reproductive health
The first heat occurs at the age of 8-9 months, pregnancy lasts about 60-70 days.
A bitch can be bred upon reaching her third heat, that is, at the age of one and a half years. Males are admitted a little later - at the age of two. The female should bear offspring between two and eight years, preferably no more than once a year. Deviation from the rules may pose a threat to the dog's life.
If you do not plan to breed puppies, carry out the appropriate procedures: sterilization should be carried out before the first heat, but no later than the third. During this period, the risk of developing breast tumors decreases. It is not necessary to neuter a male dog.
Mating
The third heat is considered optimal for mating. The process occurs over a period of 1.5 to 2 years . Males are bred up to 4 years old , bitches - up to 2 years old . The standard period is from 10 to 12 noon . The bitch must be completely ready for fertilization. The dogs are introduced in advance. It is important to take time for pre-courtship.
Features of feeding and diet
The most significant question for a new greyhound owner is: how many times should you feed the animal? It will all depend on how old your Afghan Hound is. Puppies 2-4 months - 5 times a day, 4-6 months. – 4 times, 6-12 months. – 3 times, dogs older than 1 year – 2 times a day.
The owner can choose what to feed his pet, but he must remember: protein must be present in the Afghan hound’s diet. Protein content standards are approximately 20% of the daily portion.
Many experts believe that feeding exclusively dry food is sufficient. This will save your budget, prevent tartar, and dry food already contains many nutrients. Professionals recommend choosing more expensive and high-quality class options. For animals with allergies, it is better to choose a specialized dryer.
Many owners are interested in whether it is possible to give their dog regular foods other than food? Yes, the Afghan Hound’s food may contain beef, veal, and chicken. Your picky pet can enjoy boiled fish fillet, low-fat cottage cheese, eggs, and unsweetened fermented milk products. Is it possible to treat yourself to something sweet? No, it is strictly forbidden to give sweets, confectionery, smoked and peppered meat of any kind to the animal.
Always try to provide your dog with a balanced diet so that obesity does not become a problem. Excess weight does not suit an Afghan hound at all.
Maintenance and care
In addition to the fact that good Afghan Hound ownership and care should include active walking, there are other features that should be taken into account.
Wool and its care sometimes become very labor-intensive for owners. Combing is a mandatory procedure; do not forget that without combing the undercoat, your long-haired friend will become more like a felt boot than a hunting dog. Afghan hounds do not shed; this process must be imitated using a comb.
Washing the dog should not be frequent; one bathing day every few months will be enough. After bathing, dry the coat with a towel and then dry with a hairdryer.
Ears should be washed separately, dipping them one at a time into a soapy solution: this will prevent water from flowing into the ear canal. It is recommended to brush your teeth about twice a month; the oral cavity is well cleaned with a special brush that is placed on your finger. If you hear someone clicking on the floor, it's time to trim your dog's nails. The procedure is recommended to be carried out 1-2 times a month.
How to care for an African hound if you don't have time? You can use a service such as grooming. Specialists will help you comb, wash, and tidy up your pet; he may like a professional haircut. If your Afghan Hound is preparing for a show, you will have to try even harder.
Combing
This breed of dog requires careful daily grooming. In its absence, the dog’s appearance will immediately lose its attractiveness.
Important! Treat your pet monthly with a flea and tick preventative.
The Afghan must be combed with a special brush daily, after each walk. If this is not done, tangles will soon begin to form, giving the animal a sloppy appearance.
Before combing, it is recommended to spray the coat with water and conditioner for smooth-haired dogs.
For combing, purchase a brush with metal teeth. Start combing your pet from roots to ends. During shedding, you need to use a furminator for long-haired breeds.
Tips for choosing a puppy
When going for a puppy, be careful! A consultation with a specialist will help you avoid mistakes: he will tell you how to choose a dog that will have good health and an adequate price.
When meeting puppies for the first time, pay attention to the one who is more curious and makes contact with you. Afghan hound puppies are inferior in appearance to adults, do not be afraid of their funny and ridiculous appearance.
If you are afraid of serious diseases, study the puppy's pedigree. Listen to reviews about the establishment where you are going to buy a dog, this will all help you make the right choice.
Ideal home environment
This breed is ideal for a sensitive owner who will appreciate its attractive personality traits. An intelligent dog that is hidden most of the time, the Afghani retains her true personality for those she cares for.
Owners must be calm and well disposed. These dogs can get along with well-behaved children, but tend to be overly sensitive to shenanigans.
Homes should have plenty of enclosed outdoor spaces for running.
