Trainability

This stunning sighthound originates from Afghanistan where once used for hunting large predators. They are an independent thinking breed, and because of this can be very difficult to train. They require gentle, consistent and patient owners who need to keep their dog entertained during training sessions. Most are not food or praise driven dogs, so a little creativity is needed for training. They need on-leash training right from puppy-hood and a gentle hand. Being a sensitive breed, they do not take well to harsh punishment type training methods. Some are more willing than others, but one thing is for certain, with consistently and persistence you can successfully train your supermodel. They simply love to play and goof around, incorporating this into your training will see great results. Like with all breeds early socialisation and exposure to lots of different sights, sounds and people is important. Puppy-preschools work wonderfully for this.

Grooming

Grooming is paramount with this breed. If you do not have a good amount of time, energy and money to spend on grooming then the Afghan is certainly not the dog for you. Their long silky coats will need professional help, alongside a fair bit of daily brushing. Their hair is more like the texture of human hair, so will tangle easily. Many owners even ‘top knot’ their precious pup’s hair to keep it out of the way and help with grooming. This is not a job for beginners and many owners enlist in the help of a professional groomer. Ask your breeder to demonstrate the daily routine and call around to find a professional who is skilled in the upkeep of the Afghan. Your young pup needs to get used to having their ears, feet and coat groomed so it’s important to begin this ritual from a very young age to help desensitise your dog to their lifetime of coat care.

Exercise Requirements

Don’t’ be fooled by their laid-back nature, the Afghan is a sighthound who loves to run and requires a good amount of daily exercise. A good on-leash walk followed by an off -leash romp in a fenced area is a great way to flex the brawn and the brain. Understanding their historic nature, fences are a must. This breed can run and have incredible eye-sight. Teaching a reliable ‘recall’ command is a very important as too, relaxed on-leash walking.

Intelligence

This breed can most certainly think for themselves, making many consider them to be quite aloof. They are not the type of breed that will run to your guests with enthusiasm for a cuddle and praise. Being intelligent self-thinkers can make training a bit of a challenge so seek professional advice from a handler used to the adorable Afghan nature to help. They are mischievous and funny breed that will leave their owners in bouts of laughter at the incredible antics they get themselves into.

Family Friendly

Being an independent self-thinker, the Afghan is more suited to a one person or older family situation. They are not the type of breed that will provide young children an endless play companion. Being a laid-back dog, they simply love lazing about or running full speed. They are a sighthound and will chase small pets and other animals. However, many Afghans in the right homes and hands can be socialised to tolerate small children and other pets. Always teach your child how to correctly behave around a dog and supervise young children’s interactions with your pup.

Indoor/ Outdoor

This breed does not take well to being left alone for endless hours in a yard and the grooming will be diabolical if your pup is left outside for too long. They do require a very well fenced area to play in during the day, and a nice snug area at night preferably inside the home. Their coat will keep them warm during the cooler months, but care must be taken during the hot summers to keep them cool. Providing ample shade and water is important, like with all breeds.

Breeding

It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.