The Afghan Greyhound is a breed of elegant greyhound dog. It has been known in Afghanistan for many centuries and was originally used for hunting and guarding pets. There is still no definitive information about its origins, but researchers have no doubt that Afghan Greyhounds were specifically bred by humans.

Afghan Greyhounds were brought to Great Britain only at the end of XIX century. English dog breeders liked this graceful and noble breed very much, so in the early XX century they approved its standard and created the first club dedicated to its representatives.

In the USSR Afghan Greyhounds appeared in the 1970s.

Purpose

In their homeland, Afghan Greyhounds have always been known primarily as hunters. Tall, fast and powerful dogs have found and pursued hares, jackals, gazelles, foxes, saigas, wolves and even leopards. They are excellent at identifying prey by scent and driving it in. In addition, they are sensitive shepherds who always warn their owners in time about the approach of enemies to the herd.

In Great Britain and the USA, it was not the hunting qualities of Afghans that were most appreciated, but their appearance. Breeders strived to get the best dogs for exhibition and as a result they bred almost another ornamental Afghan Greyhound, which is quite different from the original representatives of the breed.

Nowadays only a few European countries have preserved Afghans in their original form. They are used to improve the line of artificially bred dogs and are shown at special exhibitions.

A national treasure

In Afghanistan, dogs of this breed are a kind of national treasure. For a long time, they were not allowed to leave the country under penalty of death, so they were first smuggled into Europe.

Care and maintenance

Loyal, poised, calm and independent Afghan Greyhound gives little trouble to the owners. However, it needs long walks and considerable exercise. At the same time, dogs are not afraid of heat, rain or cold. They will gladly accept a walk in any weather.

Afghan Greyhounds do not get sick very often, so owners do not have to take them to the veterinarian very often. Nevertheless, owners have to spend a lot of time on hair care. Dogs need to be brushed quite often.

Temperament and character

From generation to generation, Afghan Greyhounds lived among people who treated them with respect, but without subservience. They were not servants, but faithful friends of man. They fulfill the wishes of their owners only by good will. Such a feature and causes the unusual character of dogs of this breed. They are sensitive and intelligent creatures that guess the mood of the owner and help him in everything, but without servile obedience.

Afghan Greyhounds are full of dignity, independent, but sometimes a bit aloof.

By the way

Eastern peoples have a great respect for this breed. Many consider it practically sacred.