AFGHAN HOUNDS

Mystery surrounds the origins of the Afghan Hound. Certainly they have been long established in the mountains of Afghanistan and surrounding regions. In Afghanistan they are called “Tazi” as distinct from other dogs and have been and are, highly valued by the people who they live with.

Other sight hound breeds , Saluki, Borzoi and various greyhounds are very similar in structure and shape. However the Afghan coat and ears are very distinctive as is the tight coil of the tail and the amazing rotating flexibility of the hindquarters.

There are no accurate written or art records of the Afghan Hound before the early nineteenth century British colonial activities in the Northern Indian/Afghanistan regions.

These hounds were known for their hunting abilities across a range of species from deer and snow leopards to small reptiles. An Afghan hound approaching at full speed is a scary sight.

They are also noted to be outstanding guard dogs and will quickly stand between a stranger and a gate/door/tent flap to their property.

Afghan Hounds have  an amazing sense of humour and play, making them ideal companions for children. Suggestions they are silly and ignorant are made by people who have not lived with them. Afghans are independent, and will not tolerate fools or people who want sit , beg, roll over dogs. An Afghan quickly tells an idiot they are an idiot with a shake of the head or a stare that disposes of the said idiot.

They also identify strongly with their possessions and will defend them at all costs.

If an Afghan Hound chooses to live with you then expect a loyal and faithful dog, one who will protect home and property and the family. They are loving and gentle dogs. At times they are accused of being distant but this means they want peace and quiet and will let you know. I have rarely known of an Afghan that bites or attacks other dogs however they certainly tell people and dogs they do not trust  to back off and go away without resorting to violence.