CATXDOG

Appearance: The Afghan Hound is a tall and slender sighthound with noble stature, giving impression of aristocracy among dogs. The coat may be any color, but white markings, particularly on the head, are discouraged; many individuals have a black facial mask. Some are almost white, but particolor hounds (white with islands of red or black) are not acceptable and may indicate impure breeding. The long, fine-textured coat requires considerable care and grooming. The long topknot and the shorter-haired saddle on the back in the mature dog are distinctive features of the Afghan Hound coat. The high hipbones and unique small ring on the end of the tail are also characteristics of the breed. Their head is narrow and refined, but jaws are powerful despite the gentle look. The dark eyes are almond shaped. The ears lie flat to the head. The neck is long and strong .

History: The breed was always thought to date back at least to the pre-Christian era, and recent discoveries by researchers studying ancient DNA have revealed that the Afghan Hound is in fact one of the most ancient dog breeds, dating back for many thousands of years. It was believed to be native to Sinai, and it is mentioned several times in Egyptian papyruses as well as pictured in the caves of northern Afghanistan more than 4000 years ago. Its original native name, Tazi , betrays its connection to the very similar Tasy breed of Russia . The proximity of southern Russia and Afghanistan argue for a common origin for both breeds. This breed was used as a shepherd and hunter of many types of game including deer, wild goats, and even wolves and snow leopards. They were also used by shepherds as herders and watchdogs. Initially, Afghan people refused to sell their national dog to outsiders; the breed was not seen in Europe and America until after the turn of the 20th century. AKC and CKC did not recognize the Afghan Hound until the 1930s. On August 3, 2005, Korean scientist Hwang Woo-Suk announced that his team of researchers had become the first team to successfully clone a dog. The dog, an Afghan Hound, was named Snuppy . Later that year, a pattern of lies and fraud by Hwang Woo-Suk came to light, throwing in doubt about all his claims. Snuppy, nonetheless, was a genuine clone , and thus the first cloned dog in history. ("The panel found that Hwang's claims last year to have created the world's first cloned dog, however, were genuine.")

Temperament: The temperament of the typical Afghan Hound can be aloof and dignified, but happy and clownish when playing. The breed has a reputation of being the least intelligent dog breed. The Afghan Hound has many cat-like tendencies and is not slavish in its obedience as are some other breeds. The Afghan hound has a leaning towards independence. Owners should not be surprised if their Afghan hounds sometimes choose to ignore commands. But in spite of their stubbornness they can be very sweet, loyal, affectionate and sensitive.