Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound epitomizes elegance. This rare, ancient breed of dog possesses a look that is unmatched by any other breed: a dramatic, silky coat, an exotic face, and a slim, model-like physique. Despite its appearance, Afghan enthusiasts describe this dog as aloof and humorous. The Afghan dog breed, which originated in Afghanistan and was formerly known by the name Tazi, is one of the oldest canine breeds and is believed to have existed before Christianity.
Breed Profile
Height
25-27
Inches
Weight
45-65
Pounds
Life Span
12 – 18
Years
Health
health
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)
What is it?:
GDV occurs when the stomach of these dogs gets filled with gas which causes a bloat. It is a common condition in large and deep-chested dogs. If this emergency scenario is not dealt with right away, it might be fatal.
Clinical signs
Swelling and discomfort in the abdomen.
Drooling.
Vomiting but not during retching.
Distress indicators such as increased panting, lip-licking, or restlessness.
Treatment
The majority of dogs with GDV present in cardiovascular shock, hence shock therapy must be initiated right away. Vets will administer painkillers, intravenous fluids (drip), and emergency drugs right away. If feasible, passing a stomach tube will aid in allowing some of the gas to escape. If this is not possible due to twisting, the pressure can be relieved by inserting a metal tube or large bore needle through the skin into the stomach.
This is an extremely dangerous disorder with a range of prognoses because of the condition's life-threatening nature, fast advancement, the potential for cardiovascular shock, and risk of comorbidities. Mortality rates can be very high, even in instances that are not very difficult. Unfortunately, some dogs won't survive the actual surgery, and the full extent of any possible internal damage might not be known until the procedure has begun.
Eligible vet bill
$1,000
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://www.spotpetinsurance.ca/sample-policy for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
health
Hypothyroidism
What is it?:
Hypothyroidism in dogs is typically brought on by either idiopathic thyroid gland atrophy or lymphocytic thyroiditis. The former condition, which is assumed to be an immune-mediated condition, is the most frequent cause of hypothyroidism. This indicates that the thyroid gets attacked by the immune system once it determines that it is aberrant or foreign. Although the cause of this is unknown, it is a heritable trait, which means that genetics is involved in this illness. Normal thyroid tissue is replaced by adipose tissue in idiopathic thyroid gland atrophy. Additionally, little is known about this illness.
More than 95% of dogs with hypothyroidism have one of these two reasons. The remaining 5% are brought on by uncommon illnesses, such as thyroid carcinoma.
Clinical signs
Gain in weight without a rise in appetite.
Fatigue and a lack of motivation to work out.
Dislike the cold (gets cold easily).
Dry, lifeless hair that sheds excessively.
Extremely sparse hair coat, sometimes almost bald.
Enhanced dark skin pigmentation.
Skin and ear infections are more likely to occur and are more susceptible.
Not growing hair back after cutting or shaving.
Elevated cholesterol levels.
Sluggish heartbeat.
Treatment
Hypothyroidism is treatable but not curable. It is treated with oral administration of thyroid replacement hormone. This drug must be given for the rest of the dog's life. The most commonly recommended treatment is an oral synthetic thyroid hormone replacement called levothyroxine (brand names Thyro-Tabs® Canine, Synthroid®).
Eligible vet bill
$5,000
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://www.spotpetinsurance.ca/sample-policy for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
Personality
Domesticated
The Afghan Hounds are inherently a domestic breed and doesn’t need much house-training.
Energetic
Galanday Hounds as they are also called, are extremely energetic and can easily get excited.
Sensitive
They can easily be called divas given their emotional sensitivity.
Lifetime Care
Coat & Colors
They have a silky long coat, which is quite dense. All solid colors are allowed by the American Kennel Club breed standard (standardized guidelines for the breed), with certain color combinations considered the most pleasing.
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Grooming
Afghan puppies have easy-to-maintain short, fluffy coats, including adorable facial hair known as "monkey whiskers." However, they don't remain that way for very long. The long, silky coat of an adult or adolescent Afghan needs regular grooming, as is to be expected. To keep the hair free of mats and tangles and to get rid of any debris, several hours of brushing per week are required. The Afghan's magnificent coat looks its best when the hair is kept clean and free of mats. It's also necessary to take regular baths with shampoo and conditioner. Like all breeds, Afghans should have their teeth brushed frequently and their nails clipped.
Exercise
Afghans are sighthounds, designed to hunt and pursue game by sight, hence going off-leash is not advised since they will have a strong tendency to dash off in search of perceived prey. Short walks are insufficient for this active breed, and as they reach adulthood, some owners take their leashed Afghans on extended runs. An Afghan should ideally be able to run in a big, confined space several times a week at full speed. Afghans are exceptional jumpers since they are tall, slender, and muscular, therefore their training area has to have a high, safe fence.
Training
Afghans are often independent, respectable, and distant, but once they develop a relationship with someone, they become very loving and devoted. An adult Afghan may find it challenging to settle into a new family because of this loyalty. On the other side, because they desire to please their owners, it can make them extremely simple to housetrain. Teaching fundamental commands like come, sit, and stay is usually adequate, unless obedience or agility competition is the aim. Owners of Afghan Hounds are frequently the first to point out that no amount of training will be able to suppress the breed's innate desire to go off on a high-speed pursuit.
Learn more about the cost of caring for an Afghan Hound.
Nutrition and Diet
The Afghan Hound should thrive on premium dog food, whether it is produced commercially or is made at home under the guidance and consent of your veterinarian. Any diet must be suitable for the dog's age (puppy, adult, or senior). Afghan Hounds are naturally lean since they are sight hounds, and their protruding hipbones constitute a distinctive breed trait rather than an indication that they are underweight. Being sporty and energetic canines, Afghan Hounds should receive an adequate healthy diet to suit their demands. Discover which foods fit the bill for canine consumption and which don't. If you have any worries about your dog's weight or nutrition, see your veterinarian. Fresh water that is clean should always be accessible.
Pros & Cons of the Afghan Hound
Pros:
Not a loud barker breed, quiet
Sweet and kind nature
Superb chaser
Cons:
Need a good deal of grooming
Has the propensity to be more self-directed and can be tough
Ear infections are more likely to occur as hair is quite long
Conclusion
When an Afghan hound trots by with its head held high, long locks swinging, and regal carriage, it is difficult to overlook. This attractive breed has a strong sense of self-confidence, which comes with a little bit of independence and a strong will. This hound also has a tendency to act clumsy, lethargic, and a little ditzy when it wants to. This breed requires a soft but strong touch to guide its behavior because it is extremely sensitive to harsh instructions.
Happy Mood and Health to your Doggo and lots of Love and Licks to you!
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