Afghan Hound

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History/Origin
There are no specific records about the history of the Afghan hound. Various places are mentioned but nothing is particularly cited with regards to where the first breed really was found. Some believed Afghan hound already lived some thousands of years ago in Egypt. Others, claimed records of its presence many years ago in the wild terrains in Southeast Asia; but the name suggests an established fact that later, the hound settled predominantly in the environment where its name was derived.

The Afghan Hound's existence in Afghanistan records about 7,000 years ago. It was treated as hunters by the royalties, the powerful, wealthy, and prominent people during that era. The first breed was later brought to England in the later part of the 19th century when Westerners discovered the presence of the Afghan hound in Afghanistan. This dog-hunter was brought to the U.S. sometime in l920.

Description
There are theories that state that the Afghan hound originated somewhere in the Southern and Western regions since it is characterised by being rangy and full of agility and its fur, which is of lighter shade and sparsely distributed. However, another breed that has darker color, firm body structure, and heavy thick coating suggests that it may have come from the Northern regions.

It was known that the distinct variation of such breed's types are the results of different climatic conditions of each region.

The dog stands 24 to 29 inches and weighs 45 to 60 pounds. It has fixed gaze that suggests pride and exaggerated bearing. Afghan hound looks very exotic owing to its oriental descent and domestication. Its stifle bend of the hind leg in a profuse style depicts superiority and entitles it to be considered "king" of its own kind. Its head is rather small, of refine manner, set in a swan-length look, while its skull sets to balance its face. Its ears are with flaps reaching almost as far as the nose. Its nose is of Roman look, good size, and dark. Its eyes are a little bulgy, almond-shaped, and light in color. Its neck is sturdy, arched, runs curved to the shoulders, sloping and well laid back. Its body stands strong and powerful with its hipbone very pronounced, and rib tucked up in flanks.

Temperament
The Afghan hound exudes pride with royal bearing, standing with defined dignity, it is very aloof, not plain but a bit refine. This kennel breed is gay, confident, and clownish. It is not slavish nor subject to instant obedience, making it different from any other pets. It displays manifestations of shyness, or otherwise, sharpness, and readiness to course favorite games like wolves, foxes and gazelles.