Afghan Hound: Temperament, Personality, Facts & Advice

The Afghan Hound is a striking breed known for its long, silky coat and distinctive curled tail. Originating from the cold mountains of Afghanistan, the breed is locally referred to as Sag-e Tāzī or Tāžī Spay, and is also known as the Tāzī, Balkh Hound, Baluchi Hound, and Barakzai Hound.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes the Afghan Hound as one of the most eye-catching breeds, combining an aristocratic, aloof dignity with a playful and loyal nature. Their luxurious coat evolved to protect them from harsh mountain climates, while their large paw-pads provided stability and cushioning on rocky terrain. Admired for centuries, the Afghan Hound’s beauty and grace are unmatched.

History

The Afghan Hound, one of the oldest and most elegant dog breeds, is recognized for its ancient lineage. It has been classified as a basal breed, existing long before modern breeds emerged in the 19th century. Closely related to the Saluki, this breed shares ancestry with other coursing hounds like the Tazy and the Taigan from nearby regions.

The Afghan Hound’s history outside of Afghanistan began when sighthounds were brought to England by British officers in the 1800s. Zardin, a notable dog from India, set the breed standard in 1912, influencing the Afghan Hound’s development.

Two main strains contributed to the modern breed: the Bell-Murray strain, with lighter coats from the steppes, and the Ghazni strain, with heavier coats from mountainous regions. These strains merged over time, shaping the Afghan Hound’s current form. The breed gained fame in dog shows, with several Afghan Hounds winning prestigious titles, including Best in Show at Crufts and Westminster.

Though no longer used for hunting, Afghan Hounds remain popular in lure coursing and are beloved for their beauty. They also made history as the first dog to be successfully cloned, with “Snuppy” in 2005. Despite some controversy around the cloning scientist, Snuppy remains a landmark achievement in science.

Temperament

The Afghan Hound doesn’t just appear regal; he embodies an aristocratic air and an independent nature. Despite this, he can be sweet and even playful, especially as a puppy. Afghans are deeply loyal to their immediate family but may be aloof with guests.

Being an active breed, Afghan Hounds require ample exercise and proper nutrition to support their high energy levels. Bred for hunting and chasing prey by sight, their instinct to pursue is strong, making off-leash walks risky. Outdoor play areas should be securely fenced, offering enough space for them to run at full speed to release their energy.

Characteristics

Afghan Hounds have an athletic build with distinctive protruding hipbones, a natural breed trait that does not indicate the dog is underweight.

These prominent hips allow for exceptional agility, enabling them to cover vast distances quickly and navigate obstacles with ease. Their large paw pads act as natural shock absorbers, protecting their joints from the rugged and uneven terrain they were originally bred to traverse.

Colors

They known for its stunning coat, which comes in a variety of colors, including black, black and silver, black and tan, blue, blue and cream, red, silver, and white. Some Afghan Hounds also feature distinctive markings such as a black mask, brindle, brindle with a black mask, brindle domino, or domino. These unique combinations contribute to the breed’s striking and elegant appearance.

Shedding

Despite needing more grooming than most, Afghan Hounds barely shed. As puppies, they’re relatively low maintenance due to their short coats. However, as they grow, their luxurious long coats emerge, demanding consistent care. To keep it silky and free of tangles or mats, daily brushing is essential, along with regular baths to maintain cleanliness and shine.

Lifespan

They typically has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. With proper care, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups, these dogs can enjoy a long and healthy life. However, like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health conditions, so it’s important to monitor their overall well-being throughout their lifetime.

Health

Major health issues are allergies, cancer, and hip dysplasia. Like other sighthounds, Afghan Hounds are sensitive to anesthesia due to their relatively low body fat. They are also prone to certain health issues, one of the most serious being chylothorax, a rare condition where the thoracic ducts leak chyle fluid into the chest cavity. This can lead to lung-lobe torsion, where the lung twists and requires emergency surgery. If left untreated, chylothorax can cause fibrosing pleuritis, a hardening of the organs, and is often fatal.

Other common health concerns for Afghan Hounds include laryngeal paralysis, dilated cardiomyopathy (which is more common in males), and various skin conditions like testosterone-responsive dermatosis, nasal depigmentation (Dudley nose), and skin tumors. Additionally, Afghan Hounds may develop Central diabetes insipidus (CDI), hypothyroidism, and tricholemmoma. Eye conditions such as medial canthal pocket syndrome, corneal dystrophy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy (GPRA) can also occur. Afghan myelopathy, which affects mobility in the pelvic limbs, has been reported as well.

Allergies

Afghan Hounds can experience symptoms similar to human allergies, such as sneezing, eye and nasal discharge, itching, hair loss, and lethargy. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve dietary changes, medication, or adjustments to their environment.

Cancer

Warning signs of cancer in dogs include unusual swelling, non-healing sores, bleeding from any body opening, and trouble breathing or eliminating. Treatment options include chemotherapy, surgery, and medication.

Cataracts

Cataracts, defined as partial or complete opacity of the lens, are a common cause of vision loss in dogs. In severe cases, cataracts can be surgically removed.

Hypothyroidism

 This thyroid disorder presents with symptoms like chronic ear infections, skin infections, hair loss, lethargy, and depression. It is usually managed through medication and diet adjustments.

Variants

Khalag Tazi

The Khalag Tazi is a distinct variety of the Afghan Hound that was introduced to Europe in 1920. This variety made its way to Europe when Major G. Bell-Murray, an officer in the Indian Army, brought several dogs back from Afghanistan. These elegant hounds became the foundation for the breed’s presence and development in Europe.

Bakhmull

The Bakhmull, also known as Bakhmull Tazi or Tazi Bakhmull, is a long-haired variety of sighthound primarily bred in Russia and regarded as a representative of the aboriginal Afghan Hound from Afghanistan. In Pashto, “bakhmull” means “velvet,” reflecting the dog’s silky and abundant coat, which is long all over except for the “saddle” area on the lower back, the front parts of all four legs, and the muzzle. Bakhmulls are typically fawn, ivory, or white, with a darker saddle that evokes the colors of the khaki sandstone and limestone found in the Hindu Kush mountains and deserts. Colors such as red, red with white spots, black, and black with white spots are not permitted.

Since the 1980s, Russia has become the center for Bakhmull breeding, initially in Moscow and later spreading to other regions within the CIS. The breed’s foundation stock was brought to Russia in the 1970s by military personnel returning from Afghanistan. Natalia Gherasiova, a breeder from the Blue Dale el Bark Bakhmull kennel and a dog show judge, established the National Bakhmull Club, which is affiliated with the Russian Federation for Hunting Dogs (RFOS) and the Russian Kynological Federation (RKF). The first breed standard was published in 1985, followed by a revision in 1997 produced collaboratively by RFOS and RKF.

 Popularity in culture

The Afghan Hound has appeared in various animated films and TV shows, showcasing its iconic look. Notable examples include Sylvie in Balto, Ruby in Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure, and Twiggy in Pound Puppies. The breed also made appearances in 101 Dalmatians and its sequels, as well as characters like Prince Amir of Kinjan from What-a-Mess and Brainy Barker from Krypto the Superdog. Additionally, Virginia Woolf’s novel Between the Acts features an Afghan Hound named Sohrab, and the breed is highlighted in M83’s music video for “Set in Stone (M83 Remix).”

Afghan Hound puppies

Afghan Hound puppies are known for their playful and energetic nature, often displaying a curious and mischievous personality. While they are born with short, soft coats that require little maintenance, this changes as they grow older. Around adolescence, their signature long, flowing coat begins to develop, requiring regular grooming to keep it mat-free. Afghan puppies are also highly intelligent but can be independent and stubborn, so early socialization and consistent training are important to help them grow into well-mannered adults. Despite their regal appearance, they can be quite silly and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their families.

Facts

Here are some interesting facts :

• • Their long, flowing coats were originally meant to protect them from the harsh desert and mountainous climates of Afghanistan.

• • As sighthounds, Afghans have excellent panoramic vision and unique hip joints, which allow them to achieve incredible speed and pursue prey with ease.

• • Pablo Picasso’s sculpture of his Afghan Hound, Kabul, can be found in Daley Plaza, Chicago.

• • Picasso’s 1962 painting Femme au Chien, which features an Afghan Hound, sold for over $10 million in 2012.

• • The breed gained popularity in the U.S. after Barbie’s Afghan Hound, named Beauty, was introduced.

• • The first dog ever cloned was an Afghan Hound named Snuppy in 2005.

• • One of the earliest Afghan Hounds in America belonged to Zeppo Marx of the Marx Brothers, who owned one in 1926.

References

• • Brearley, Joan McDonald’s book, This is the Afghan Hound (1965), offers an in-depth look at the breed’s characteristics and development, covering topics such as their history and unique qualities. First published in Jersey City by T.F.H. Publications and distributed by Sterling Pub. Co., New York, the book spans pages 13-25 .

• • The American Kennel Club (AKC) provides detailed breed information about the Afghan Hound, outlining its history, temperament, and care. You can access this up-to-date resource directly through the AKC’s official site .

• • In 2004, a study by Parker, Heidi G., and others titled “Genetic Structure of the Purebred Domestic Dog” was published in Science. The study investigates the genetic framework of purebred dogs, with the Afghan Hound’s placement highlighted in figure 2. This influential research can be found through major academic databases .

• • Constance O. Miller’s The New Complete Afghan Hound (1988) explores the breed’s history and development in more detail, ranging from the early origins to modern-day standards. You can find it through various academic libraries and publishing platforms .

• • A Czech source, “Historie afgánského chrta” (“History of the Afghan Hound“), offers insight into the Afghan Hound’s historical importance, emphasizing the breed’s transition into Western societies .

• • This is the Afghan Hound by Brearley is another reference work you can find in libraries and academic settings, specifically addressing detailed traits of this breed .

• • Afghan Hound enthusiasts often refer to the Afghan Hound Times for art and breed antics, providing a historical archive on Afghan Hounds’ cultural significance .

• • The Afghan Hound Association website also provides a rich history and background of the breed, including details on notable dogs and breeding practices .

• • In 2021, Denise Flaim’s piece for the AKC titled Afghan Hound History: The Ancient Breed of Afghanistan goes into the breed’s historical roots and prominence across cultures .

• • Lastly, Franck Haymann’s article Afghan Hound: From The Streets Of Kabul To The Main Rings Of The World (2006) explores the Afghan Hound’s journey from Afghanistan to becoming a celebrated show dog .

Conclusion

The Afghan Hound is a breed that embodies both elegance and endurance, with a rich history that traces back to the mountainous regions of Afghanistan. Known for their unique appearance, including a flowing, silky coat and distinctive hip structure, these dogs were originally bred for hunting in harsh terrains. Despite their regal and sometimes aloof demeanor, Afghan Hounds are loyal and occasionally playful companions. Their beauty and grace have made them iconic in dog shows and popular culture, but owning an Afghan Hound also requires dedication to grooming and exercise. Overall, the Afghan Hound remains a symbol of nobility and timeless beauty in the canine world.