The graceful and aristocratic Afghan Hound is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful dogs in the world. The breed originated in the cold mountains of Afghanistan, where they were used to hunt game. Their long flowing coat which developed to protect them from the harsh climate of the region has become one of their most recognisable features.

Afghan Hounds are a hardy breed, with an average lifespan of 12 years and very few health problems. One characteristic that they shares with other sight hounds is sensitivity to some types of anaesthetic drugs. This is because they have very little body fat, which affects the metabolism of the drug.

The Afghan Hound is a tall slender dog, which grows to a height of 75cm as an adult but only weighs up to 27kg. They look like a typical sight hound - long legs, a long flexible back, and a deep chest. These features allow them to gallop very fast, and they can reach speeds of up to 60km/hour.

You will find Afghan Hounds come in a variety of colours, including fawn, tan, gold and brindle. They have a silky topknot which can be tied up with a bow, and they have a distinctive curl to the tip of their tail. Their long silky coat needs considerable maintenance. It can take up to an hour to comb and groom these dogs, and this needs to be done at least weekly. If your lifestyle doesn't allow you the time to spend caring for your Afghan's coat, this might not be the breed for you.

Afghans are very dignified, and can be suspicious and aloof with people they don't know. They are quite independent, which can make them difficult to train. However, they do enjoy a game with their owner or other dogs, and can be quite the clown. They are also great with children.

Because they were bred to hunt and chase, they have a strong prey drive. This may make life difficult if you share your home with other small pets such as cats.

These dogs were bred to chase, and if possible, should be allowed to express this natural behaviour. The safest way to do this is to take them lure coursing. At these events, sight hounds of all breeds chase a plastic bag or fluffy toy on a pulley. An Afghan Hound in full flight is an impressive sight, with their legs outstretched and their long coat flying in the breeze.

Because they will chase anything that catches their eye, don't allow your Afghan Hound off lead unless they are in a safe, fully fenced environment.

While Afghans can learn basic obedience commands, they are not particularly good at more advanced training exercises. These advanced classes often include retrieving and scent work, and as a sight hound, these exercises are not their strong point.

Afghan Hounds are best suited to an owner with the time and commitment to exercise them regularly and take care of their coat.