DESCRIPTION
In general shape the Afghan Hound appears like a very tall and long haired Greyhound and like the greyhound, they are capable of great speed and the ability to cover long distances without effort. They are often described as having a very aloof appearance since they tend to carry their head high at all times. The muzzle is very tapered and refined and ends in a black nose on all coat colors. The eyes are always very dark in color and almond to triangular in shape, set into the head and not bulging or sunken in appearance. The eyes should give the look of calm intelligence. The ears are long and set across from the eyes. When pulled forwards the ears should almost reach the end of the long muzzle. The lips are tight to the teeth and the bite is even, with no underbite or overbite. Etc, etc, etcTEMPERAMENT
The Afghan Hound, despite it is aristocratic physical appearance is actually a very sweet, loving and playful dog that enjoys human interaction and companionship. They will bond with one or two people in the family and will typically choose to attend to these people rather than responding to commands from everyone. The Afghan Hound is very much like a cat in some aspects of its personality. They need to be able to pick and choose when they want attention and companionship, although this trait will vary greatly between dogs, and males are more aloof typically than females. etc,etc,etcHEALTH PROBLEMS
The most commonly seen Health Problems noted with the Afghan Hound are typically the heart, eyes and injuries to the tail. Overall the Afghan Hound has a low pain tolerance and they seem to need a bit of special attention should they have any type of minor injury. The most common Health conditions with the Afghan Hound are:- Necrotic myelopathy - a respiratory paralysis that typically occurs at 3 to 6 months of age and will result in death.
- Ear Mites and Ear infections - this is common with any breed with folded over ears.
- Allergies - milk Allergies as well as certain food and environmental contaminants and items can result in allergies that will result in hair loss and possible skin infections if there is scratching and licking.
- Cataracts - eye conditions that may be corrected by surgery and drug therapies.
- CHD - canine hip dysplasia can be mild to severe and will be gradually degenerative.
- Tail injuries
GROOMING
The long, silky beautiful hair of the Afghan Hound requires regular, daily grooming to keep it in top shape and free from knots and tangles. To keep an Afghan Hounds coat in good shape it will usually take a commitment of several hours of grooming time per week. The breed is never clipped or trimmed on the body or head for show, although the leg cuffs may occasionally be trimmed for show. etc, etc, etc