|
The Afghan Hound, a member of the Sighthound family, is an aristocrat with a proud and dignified look. The breed was first discovered on the border country between Afghanistan and India. Orginially bred to course game across mountainous terrain, the Afghan is very agile and moves with grace and ease — he can trot at speeds of up to 12 mph for hours on end. This is a breed that needs room to run and requires regular exercise.
The Afghan has an aloof and elegant manner, very devoted and loyal to his family, and rather reserved with strangers. They can be overly brave or downright shy and early socialization is very important for the breed.
The Afghan does make a wonderful companion and also a very versatile breed, quite often seen in the show ring, lure coursing, competing in agility and obedience and is often used as a Therapy Dog.
One of the Afghan's most beautiful features is his elegant, long and silky coat.
|
For additional books, gifts & merchandise, CLICK HERE
|
TOP
Health Issues:
In general, the Afghan Hound is known to be a very healthy breed; however, like all breeds certain genetic disorders have been known to occur, such as: Cataracts, Demodicosis, Hip Dysplasia, and Hypothyroidism.
Two additional health concerns should be noted:
- Anesthetics — Like all members of the Sighthound family, the Afghan Hound is sensitive to a number of anesthetics. It is very important to discuss this with your Veterinarian in advance of any required surgery. For additional information, see: Anesthesia in Sighthounds from the Saluki Club of America, as well as A Safe Method of Sighthound Anesthesia by Rodger I. Barr, DVM.
- Bloat — As with any deep-chested dog, the occurrence of Bloat or Gastric Torsion is a real possibility in the Afghan Hound. If you are not familiar with this condition, it is absolutely necessary to learn about it and know the symptoms — This is a real emergency and a life threatening condition that requires immediate Veterinary attention. See Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) — Bloat in the Health and Nutrition section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for more information and First Aid for Bloat for an article describing some of the things you can do if you are faced with this situation.
Additional Health Resources:
If you are considering the adoption of a Afghan Hound puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
TOP
Breed Standards:
TOP
Grooming Information:
- Afghan Hound Colours — Pictorial description of the various coat colours of the Afghan Hound, from the Afghan Hound Association, U.K.
- Afghan Hound Grooming and Coat Care
- "The Coat Must be Allowed to Develop Naturally" — By Jim Hickie
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
 |
Show Off Your Dog: Grooming Basics Video
Published by: A.R.T. Productions, Edition: 1997 Video
Duration: 60 Min.
Suitable for 54 longhaired breeds, but especially good for parted-coat breeds, including the Afghan Hound. Techniques taught include proper brushing methods, bathing, blow drying, ironing, trimming, and the top knot. Will also show you how to make grooming a pleasant and rewarding experience for you and your dog. Groomer is Ena Lane, breeder and handler, Shih Tzus.
|
TOP
Training Resources:
- Afghan Hound Care and Training
- Training — For information on training your Afghan Hound, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
TOP
Additional Information:
- Lure Coursing Information
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — Information on the various sports and activities you can get involved in with your Afghan Hound as well as a listing of non-breed specific clubs. (For Afghan Breed Clubs in Canada and around the World, Click here or select from the links at the top or bottom of this page.)
- Working Dogs — A section dedicated to the working dog. See information about some of the jobs your Afghan Hound can do, including information on Therapy Dogs.
- Afghan Hound Pedigree History
|
