Afghan Hound Dog Breed
Posted by Jeanne on November 16, 2008
Afghan Hounds are swift hunting dogs, their natural quarry being jackal. They are also used on leopards with great success. Usually working in pairs, the dog attacks the throat, the bitch the hinder parts. Shy to strangers, they are very loyal to their owners, and are gentle, sensitive, and very courageous.
- Head – Narrow, conforming to that of a greyhound but more powerful; skull oval, with prominent occiput; jaws long and punishing; mouth, level, not overshot nor undershot; ears long; eyes dark, little or no stop.
- Neck – Long, strong, arched, and running in a curve to shoulder, which should be long and sloping, and well laid back.
- Body – Strong powerful loin, and slightly arched, falling away towards stern; well ribbed and tucked up underloins; should be that of a hound and have ample length; the tail set not too high on body similar to greyhound, having a curve at the end, but on no account a bushy tail.
- Legs – Forelegs straight and strong, great length between elbow and ankle, elbows well tucked in; forefeet very large both in length and breadth, toes well arched and the feet covered with long thick hair, fine in texture; pasterns long and pads well down on ground.
- Brisket – Deep and not too narrow.
- Hind Quarters – Powerful, well muscled, great length between hip and hock, this is one of the main features of the hound; fair bend in stifle.
- Hind Feet – Broad but not so long as forefeet; toes arched; feet covered in long, thick hair.
- Coat – Hindquarters, flanks, ribs and fore quarters well covered with silky, thick hair, very fine in texture; ears and all four feet well feathered; head surmounted with top-knot of long, silky hair.
- General Appearance – Strong, alert, and active; looking a combination of speed and power, with a graceful outline.
- Height – Dogs about 27 inches; bitches, 25 inches.
- Weight – About 60 pounds.
