The Afghan Hound's origins come from the Middle Eastern Sighthounds, whose roots date from the time of the Egyptian Pharaohs. They were used as hunters and retrievers by nomadic tribes for hunting hare, gazelles, and other small animals. The breed of the Afghan Hound stayed isolated in the Afghanistan Mountains for many centuries.

These were practically impenetrable mountains. These hounds were partnered with falcons, who would then swoop down at the intended quarry. They hunted in rough terrain and conditions and harsh mountains for many generations. This hard labor helped them develop speed, strength, and stamina. It nimbleness and leaping distance are their most striking physical capabilities and prowess.

They have a very thick and long coat, which helped keep tem warm so they could hunt successfully in the frigid and extreme mountain climate. They first made their way to England during the early 1900's. These dogs were also known as the Barukhzy Hound.

Some people called them the Persian Greyhounds.

The Afghan Hound breed was so diverse, they had to draw up a model dog to create a breed standard. This model dog was given the name Zardin. They were slow to gain popularity, but eventually made their name in the show ring. This name it made for itself was the most competitive and glamorous dog in the ring. They were extremely popular during the 1970's, but they are no longer a common household pet today.

When you see how beautiful and glamorous this hound is, you would never suspect it hunting skills and abilities. It may be capable of hunting in any rough terrain, but it is still a gentle dog, especially with kids. They are sometimes timid and shy around people they don't know.

They need to have routine exercise each day also. In order to keep your Afghan Hound in a happy mind set, you should stimulate him physically and mentally each day. The best exercise for this breed is letting him run around fast in a safe place. They need entry to the outside each day, but should be kept inside at night time. The Afghan Hound requires more grooming than other breeds. With it's long luxurious coat, it needs to be brushed at least every other day.

Most Afghan Hounds live to the age of 12 to 15 years old. They may have cataracts, but otherwise are an extremely hearty and healthy dog, with no other known main health issues. In very rare cases, they may contract necrotic myelopathy and CHD, but this is hardly seen.