DESCRIPTION - The origin of the Afghan hound is from the Middle Eastern Sighthounds with ancestors going back to the Egyptian Pharaoh. The Afghan was used by the nomadic tribes to hunt for a variety of small animals, such as hare and gazelles to return as provisions. For centuries, the Afghan breed stayed isolated in the mountains of Afghanistan, and often hunted in partnership with a falcon – these were trained to dive down at prey.

Able to establish great strength, speed, and stamina from such grueling labor, the Afghan hound's most obvious physical capabilities were its nimbleness and leaping distances. Due mainly to their long, thick coats, these great hunting dogs were able to function with success in the frosty mountain climate.

It wasn't till the early 1900's that the first Afghan's made their way to Europe. The popularity of the Afghan hound developed at a snail's pace, in time establishing its name as a show dog.

In truth, the Afghan hound become known as one of the more competitive and glamorous dogs on show. The 1970's were a prosperous time for this breed with the public; even so, their position as a family pet since then has declined.

AFGHAN HOUND TEMPERAMENT - The Afghan hound is a skilful hunter at heart, able of locate its prey in rough landscapes, yet is gentle and peaceful, typically with children. In need of exercise on a day to day basis and can at times be reserved and shy with strangers.

CARE - To stay in a content state of mind, the Afghan hound dogs need both physical and mental stimulation. This breed prefers to live inside with the family but still needs freedom to roam outside throughout the day in an enclosed area. Grooming an Afghan hound coat is necessary on a daily basis, and this will call for a thorough brush.

HEALTH INFORMATION - This Afghan Hound dog is considered as very healthy and experiences no major health related issues. One concern to appear is that of cataracts. On occasion necrotic myelopathy and CHD are seen, but those are very rare.