How to choose the right dog breed: The Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is one of the most distinguished-looking breeds, which is no doubt the main reason people are attracted to it. The Afghan is not active enough to be a pest, nor is it extremely low on reactivity traits, like some other hounds, such as the Bloodhound or Basset Hound. Overall, it is moderately high on aggressive traits. The Afghan's high rank on territorial defense suggests that you can count on it as a guard dog. This breed is large enough and aggressive enough that its low ranking on watchdog barking should pose no problem, if property protection is a high priority for you.

The Afghan doesn't have the behavioral profile one might consider ideal for being around children though. Its high rank on snapping at children and its low demand for affection are two prominent reasons behind this rating. As a pet for adults, the Afghan is for people willing to make a strong commitment to obedience training and to expressing their assertiveness over the dog. The afghan ranks fourth highest in its tendency to exert dominance over the owner, third lowest on acceptance of obedience training, and has a high rank on destructiveness. If you're devoted to this breed but want to enhance the impact of its obedience training and lessen its tendency toward destructiveness, consider selecting a female.

For the owner who enjoys spending time working with his or her dog and doesn't mind consistently monitoring a pet, this breed may be appropriate. If you're not quite ready for the challenge of an Afghan Hound, the Boxer is a similar breed that ranks more favorably on acceptance of obedience training and the tendencies toward destructiveness, dominance over the owner, and snapping at children.

The Afghan Hound:

Weight: 60 lbs
Height: 27 in.
Build: Average
Coat: Long, silky; regular grooming required.
Color: Tan, black, or combination of both.

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