Should I Get An Afghan Hound As A Pet?

Can you provide regular access to a large fenced area?

Can you commit to maintaining Afgan Hound's long coat?

Do you mind having a headstrong pet that is difficult to train?

Can you provide a lot of socialization that Afgan Hounds require?

Do you live in a harmonious home?

Afghan Hounds need regular access to a large fenced area. The area must be fenced because these dogs are chasing addicts with sharp eyesight for movement. If something catches their attention, they will run off and won't come back. Also, they have a strong prey instinct and could seriously injure or kill any small animal. The fence should be high as these dogs can jump up to six feet in the air with little effort.

Afghan Hounds require regular brushing and combing. If you can't commit to brushing, you have to commit to frequent trimming or clipping to keep the coat short and sanitary. A shorter coat is really easy to care for. You must either learn how to use an electric hair clipper or pay a professional hairdresser for it.

These dogs are very different from other types of dogs. They are headstrong animals who don't particularly care to please their owner. They can show passive resistance by refusing to move. You have to show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.

Afghan hounds need extensive exposure to humans and unusual scenes and sounds. Otherwise, their natural caution can become extreme shyness, which is difficult to live with.

If you want a gentle, but athletic and graceful dog, that has a tall, slender, elegant build and a long, flowing coat that comes in many colors an Afghan Hound may be right for you.

Afghan hounds are extremely sensitive to stress and can end up ill with serious indigestion and neurotic behavior in homes where there are family problems and a lot of noise. Afghan Hounds are peaceful dogs who need a peaceful, harmonious home. If you have small children, getting an Afghan Hound is not recommended. These sensitive dogs often feel overwhelmed by the loud voices and quick movements that children can't help making.