General Appearance

The Afghan Hound is an aristocrat, his whole appearance one of dignity and aloofness with no trace of plainness or coarseness. He has a straight front, proudly carried head, eyes gazing into the distance as if in memory of ages past. The striking characteristics of the breed-exotic, or "Eastern," expression, long silky topknot, peculiar coat pattern, very prominent hipbones, large feet, and the impression of a somewhat exaggerated bend in the stifle due to profuse trouserings-stand out clearly, giving the Afghan Hound the appearance of what he is, a king of dogs, that has held true to tradition throughout the ages.

Owning

The Afghan Hound is covered with a thick coat of long silky hair that requires hours of grooming each week to maintain its beautiful appearance. The Afghan Hound needs room to run in a fenced area under supervision. They may appear aloof and particularly standoffish with strangers.

Temperament

Aloof and dignified, yet gay.

Did You Know

The Afghan Hound was discovered by the Western world in Afghanistan and surrounding regions during the 19th century. The current breed was developed in Afghanistan's mountainous countryside. The Afghan Hound first appeared in the United States in 1926. In 1940, the Afghan Hound Club of America was admitted to AKC membership and held its first specialty show.