If you are looking for a distinguished, sophisticated larger dog, then the Afghan Hound may be right for you. The Afghan Hound has a long silky coat, curled tail, and tall slender appearance. Its long slim face and long ears help the Afghan Hound project an image of calm magnificence. Their galloping gait gives them the aura of royalty and respect. Afghan Hounds make regal pets that demand attention wherever they go.

The Afghan Hound is considered one of the kindest of dogs. They are very gentle, affectionate and loyal. They are more curious of strangers than suspicious, and are not considered guard dogs by any stretch. They can be more energetic, nervous and timid around small children and would probably be best suited to a home with older or no children. Their sensitive nature demands a lot of loving, gentle attention. If they are not properly trained, then they can be a lot more mischievous and harder to handle.

The Afghan Hound can get up to about sixty-five pounds and therefore they need a lot of room to roam. They need a big yard to run or they will not get enough exercise and their health will suffer. Instinctively they love open spaces and do not do well if kept indoors all of the time. If they do get enough free time outside, then they are generally healthy dogs. They don't have any common illnesses or diseases as a breed. They are, however, very sensitive physically as well as mentally. The smallest of injuries can cause them extreme pain and discomfort. Gentleness is a must with this breed, in their handling as well as in their training.

Before you decide to get an Afghan Hound, you should consider all of the work that will go into maintaining the coat. The hair of the coat is very long and thick. They do tend to shed, although not extreme, the length of the hair can make it seem like a lot. They need to be bathed and brushed almost weekly, especially if you plan to show your dog. Brushing the coat when it is dry can severely damage it and make maintenance a very difficult job. Only brushing the coat when it's wet will keep it shiny and less matted than if you brush it dry. Another maintenance to consider is the need for a snood. A snood is a tubular piece of fabric that acts like ear muffs. The snood keeps the Afghan Hound's hair and ears out of its mouth when eating and drinking food and water.

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