Afghan Hounds are built for running, with their athletic build and powerful legs designed for speed and endurance.
They can reach speeds of up to 30-40 miles per hour, making them a natural fit for running companions.
However, their long, silky coats can be a hindrance in hot weather, so be sure to provide plenty of water and rest breaks.
Regular running can also help prevent health issues like obesity and joint problems in Afghan Hounds.
On a similar theme: Running Walker Hound
Physical Characteristics
Afghan hounds are tall dogs, measuring 25–27 inches at the shoulder.
Their long face has a prominent nose, giving them a slightly Roman appearance, and their ears are long.
Afghan hounds generally weigh just 50–60 pounds, making them a medium-large breed.
Their long, silky, and flowing coat is one of their most defining characteristics, and it's not just for show – it kept them warm in the high mountains where they were bred as hunters.
Their coat can come in any color, but solid colors are most common, and white markings are often discouraged by breed purists.
Their especially large paw pads were designed to protect them from rocky terrain, and their highly flexible hips enable them to turn quickly in small areas.
Exercise and Training
Afghan hounds need a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They require at least two hours of exercise per day.
Daily walks are a must, but Afghan hounds also need to be able to run around freely. This is best done in enclosed areas with high fencing, as they can get distracted and run off.
Afghan hounds need mental stimulation through games and activities to prevent boredom, which can lead to bad behaviour. An Easter Egg Hunt is a great way to keep them entertained.
To give your Afghan hound the exercise it needs, consider the following exercise routine:
- At least two hours of exercise per day
- Daily walks
- Running around in enclosed areas with high fencing
- Mental stimulation through games and activities
Dog Breed Information
The Afghan Hound is a sleek and agile dog breed, built for speed and endurance. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.
Afghan Hounds are known for their athletic ability, which makes them well-suited for running. They can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour and maintain a steady pace for long distances.
Their slender build and long legs allow them to cover a lot of ground with each stride, making them efficient runners.
Fun Facts
Afghan hounds are truly one-of-a-kind dogs, and it's no wonder they've had some very famous owners over the years.
Some Afghan hounds have special scent glands in their cheeks that can release a pleasant, musky odor, often compared to sandalwood or cinnamon. This unique feature is one reason why they're sometimes called "the scented hound".
Afghan hounds are incredibly fast, capable of reaching speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. To put that into perspective, the fastest racehorse ever recorded reached about 44 miles per hour.
These speedy hounds are often trained for lure coursing, a fun sport where they chase after a mechanized, white plastic lure that zig zags around a field.
Here are some of the most notable owners of Afghan hounds:
- Zeppo Marx, one of the four vaudeville stars in the Marx Brothers, was among the first to bring the Afghan hound to the U.S.
- Pablo Picasso had two Afghan hounds, named Kabul and Kasbac, who frequently appeared in his work.
- Salvador Dali and designer Givenchy also owned Afghan hounds.
- The iconic doll Barbie had an Afghan hound named Beauty.
Sighthound Dog Breeds
Sighthounds are known for their incredible speed and agility, with some breeds reaching up to 45 miles per hour.
The Greyhound is a popular sighthound breed that has been clocked at 45 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest dog breeds in the world.
Sighthounds are bred to hunt small game, and their speed and agility are essential for this purpose.
The Whippet is another sighthound breed that is known for its speed and agility, reaching up to 36 miles per hour.
Sighthounds are generally quiet dogs and do not bark much, which makes them a good choice for apartment dwellers.
The Saluki is an ancient sighthound breed that has been around for thousands of years and is known for its speed and endurance.
Sighthounds are often independent dogs and can be challenging to train, but with patience and consistency, they can learn to obey commands.
The Borzoi is a large sighthound breed that is known for its speed and agility, reaching up to 35 miles per hour.
Sighthounds are generally low-maintenance dogs and do not require a lot of grooming, which makes them a good choice for busy owners.
Dog Runs Amok at Idaho Dog Show
Liam the Afghan Hound decided to steal the dog show in the best way possible. He slipped his leash and took full advantage of the situation.
Gorgeous 13-month-old Afghan Hound Liam was at the Lewis-Clark Club hound group competition in Lewiston, Idaho on April 24. The class was progressing calmly until he found himself free.
The footage of Liam's spree, captured by professional dog handler and trainer Christy Marley, shows the adorable pup high-tailing it round the ring. Ears flying and tongue lolling, Liam was having the time of his life.
Liam's owner Mallory Triplett-Schrattenholzer posted on her Facebook page after the incident, saying it was her fault for accidentally hitting the clip and popping off his collar. She wasn't upset or mad, just laughing it off.
The high-spirited hound didn't win that class but was subsequently placed in a different class for dogs shown by their owners who are not professional handlers. This was a great opportunity for Liam to shine in a different way.
The video, originally shared on TikTok, has been viewed over 1.8 million times. It's clear that Liam is the star of the show, careering round and slipping on the smooth floor while the other pups look on enviously.
Christy Marley's voice can be heard on the clip saying, "Oh what a brat! He's so proud of himself too." This sums up Liam's personality perfectly.
Sources
- Afghan Hound - Dog Breeds - American Kennel Club (akc.org)
- Afghan Hound - Dog Breeds (dailypaws.com)
- Afghan Hound Guide | Exercise Needs (borrowmydoggy.com)
- #liamtheafghan (instagram.com)
- Video: Hilarious moment Afghan Hound runs wild at dog show ... (dailymail.co.uk)
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