Afghan Hound

Afghan Hound, breed of dog from the hound group. The Afghan Hound, also known as the Baluchi Hound or the Tazi, has long been found in the hill country of northern Afghanistan where it hunted deer, wolves, gazelles, and big cats. Evidence exists that the breed was known in Egypt as far back as 4000 to 3000 bc. British soldiers returning home from the Afghan Wars introduced the breed into England in the late 19th century. A hunter, the Afghan Hound courses its game by sight. The dog is especially valuable as a working dog in hilly country because of its ability to turn easily and make powerful leaps.

The Afghan Hound stands between 63 and 74 cm (25 and 29 in) tall at the shoulder and weighs between 23 and 28 kg (51 and 62 lb). It has a narrow head, like that of a Greyhound; a long neck; straight, strong forelegs; low-set triangular ears set close to the head; and thick, long, silky hair that billows around the dog as it runs. Its colours include black, black and tan, gold, cream, brindle, domino, and blue.