PetCare | Bichon Frises | Dogs
PetCare Bichon Frises
Description
The Border Collie is a well balanced medium-sized athletic dog, bred for working and its intelligence, with either a smooth coat or is of medium length with a thick water resistant undercoat. It rather looks like an Australian Shepherd (without the bob-tail). The muzzle tapers elegantly to the all black nose and its ears are usually half perked.
Long and lean looking with a wide skull, it is extremely intelligent and works hard to please. The Border's body is slightly longer than the height at its withers. Their liquid dark brown eyes are oval, with the exception of Merles, and then one or more eyes may be blue. On a well proportioned dog, the teeth should meet in a neat scissors bite - no over bite or underbites. Its lovely flag of a tail is never carried over its back, but is raised when the dog is excited.
Training this dog requires patience due to their high level of energy, but they respond well to obedience work, agility, fly ball, rally-o and other games. The Border's main raison d'etre is herding sheep and their stamina and patience is highly renowned. Known for their hypnotic eye, the Border's herding skills are second to none - using eyes only to guide a herd - no nips or barks.
Coat Description
Borders are double coated, with a moderately long, dense, medium textured topcoat. The undercoat is short, soft and dense, offering good weather protection. The luxuriant coat forms the mane, brush and breeching. Usually the face, ear tips, forelegs (except for the feathering), and hind legs from hock to ground, features short and smooth hair. A smooth coat is acceptable. Just about any color of Border (see section below Colors) is acceptable except pure white.
History
The Border hails from the British Isles in the border country of England and Scotland. The derivation of the name Collie seems to be a hot topic, with some saying it comes from the Gaelic word meaning useful. Others insist it came from "coalie" meaning black, and still others say collie was the name of a breed of sheep.
Whatever the case may be, the Border is a very old breed and appears in literature as far back as 1570. It wasn't until 1915 that James Reid, the Secretary of the International Sheepdog Society in Great Britain first called the dog a Border Collie. Sheepdog trials were first held in 1873 in Wales and in 1880 in the USA.
Grooming
The Border has a medium/long coat, and needs to be groomed (combed and brushed) at a minimum of once a week. Although, they are considered to be fairly low maintenance since their coats actually shed dirt fairly well.
A good brushing about 2 - 3 times per week will keep the coat looking nice and tidy. You might want to do this more often during shedding season, to keep it off your carpets. A coat like this can tangle easily and it needs to be brushed out on a regular basis. Use care brushing when the soft undercoat is shedding. As well his feathers on the front legs and tail need to be trimmed when necessary.
Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. In other words, don't bathe them on a regular basis, just when they start feeling dirty to you or have rolled in something obnoxious or made friends with a skunk at close range. This breed is an average shedder. It your dog smells bad after a bath, head to the Vet and get the ears and skin checked - for instance your dog may have a hot spot - and they have an awful smell.
Make certain to check for ticks during tick season and pay attention to the length of the toenails. If they run on hard surfaces a lot, they will wear their own nails down. But if not, then you will either have to clip them yourself, or have a professional do it for you.
Exercise
Borders have no end to their energy both indoors and out. If left to their own devices, you won't like what you find when you get home (chewed walls, books, carpet etc.) Outside they will entertain themselves by digging holes. The goal would be to stimulate both the mind and the body of your Border - engage his boundless curiosity and intelligence.
An ideal workout for your Border would be a rousing game of fetch with balls or a Frisbee, throw in some swimming, running along side you while you bike and hiking. Don't expect your dog to entertain itself, because this one will not. They will wait for you, and if you don't come to engage them, will chew things they should not or present you with some very large holes in your lawn. You need to be very careful about heat exhaustion with the Border. They are so intense, they will often continue on past their limits unless you stop them and slow them down
The best exercise regimen for your Border Collie would be at least two 45 minute walks a day, no matter what the weather may be. While you may not be too happy with the weather, your Pet dogs doesn't mind in the least. This may vary depending on your dog, as each one does have its own personality.
While on your walks try to have about 20 minutes full tilt running off leash and include a game of fetch or even a tug of war. You need to also include at least 15 to 30 minutes of obedience training, trick training or other activities that keep your dog's mind sharp. If he's mentally stimulated he's happy. If he's happy, he's well-behaved.
If you don't think what you are doing is enough for your dog, don't increase the physical part of your routine, increase the educational portion instead. That would mean more obedience training, tricks - things to keep his mind busy - to stretch his mental limits. Working his mind will make him more tired than working his body - remember, their stamina is phenomenal. And they ALWAYS have energy to spare, even when you don't!
Training
Borders are one of the smartest breeds hands down and learn very quickly. Their intelligence isn't the issue the trainer is the issue. These dogs are very difficult for the average person to train.
These dogs are so intelligent that they can actually manipulate you to do what they want you to do. Some can be very willful and dominant - the Alpha dog - and the only way to work with that is to prove to them that you can make them do things.
They are very sensitive dogs and a harsh correction may make them freeze and shut down on you - for instance roll over on its back or pay close attention to something else besides you. Or, they may also get even more anxious and speed up, which will cause more miscues. You need to be firm and consistent with them because they will try and get away with as much as they can. Also be careful about sounds, as Borders are very sensitive to sounds.
The most frustrating part about training a Border is their hypersensitivity to the slightest sound or movement you make. They try to anticipate what you want them to do and guess at what comes next. Trying to get them to actually remain still and wait for the actual command is challenging to say the least. The best type of training for the Borders is motivational with lots of treats/play time.
And another love of Border Collies is tricks. They love learning new things and can be taught some great stunts like playing dead or rolling over - anything so they can show off. It appeals to the clown in them.
Description
The Border Collie is a well balanced medium-sized athletic dog, bred for working and its intelligence, with either a smooth coat or is of medium length with a thick water resistant undercoat. It rather looks like an Australian Shepherd (without the bob-tail). The muzzle tapers elegantly to the all black nose and its ears are usually half perked.
Long and lean looking with a wide skull, it is extremely intelligent and works hard to please. The Border's body is slightly longer than the height at its withers. Their liquid dark brown eyes are oval, with the exception of Merles, and then one or more eyes may be blue. On a well proportioned dog, the teeth should meet in a neat scissors bite - no over bite or underbites. Its lovely flag of a tail is never carried over its back, but is raised when the dog is excited.
Training this dog requires patience due to their high level of energy, but they respond well to obedience work, agility, fly ball, rally-o and other games. The Border's main raison d'etre is herding sheep and their stamina and patience is highly renowned. Known for their hypnotic eye, the Border's herding skills are second to none - using eyes only to guide a herd - no nips or barks.Coat Description
Borders are double coated, with a moderately long, dense, medium textured topcoat. The undercoat is short, soft and dense, offering good weather protection. The luxuriant coat forms the mane, brush and breeching. Usually the face, ear tips, forelegs (except for the feathering), and hind legs from hock to ground, features short and smooth hair. A smooth coat is acceptable. Just about any color of Border (see section below Colors) is acceptable except pure white.
History
The Border hails from the British Isles in the border country of England and Scotland. The derivation of the name Collie seems to be a hot topic, with some saying it comes from the Gaelic word meaning useful. Others insist it came from "coalie" meaning black, and still others say collie was the name of a breed of sheep.
Whatever the case may be, the Border is a very old breed and appears in literature as far back as 1570. It wasn't until 1915 that James Reid, the Secretary of the International Sheepdog Society in Great Britain first called the dog a Border Collie. Sheepdog trials were first held in 1873 in Wales and in 1880 in the USA.
Grooming
The Border has a medium/long coat, and needs to be groomed (combed and brushed) at a minimum of once a week. Although, they are considered to be fairly low maintenance since their coats actually shed dirt fairly well.A good brushing about 2 - 3 times per week will keep the coat looking nice and tidy. You might want to do this more often during shedding season, to keep it off your carpets. A coat like this can tangle easily and it needs to be brushed out on a regular basis. Use care brushing when the soft undercoat is shedding. As well his feathers on the front legs and tail need to be trimmed when necessary.
Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. In other words, don't bathe them on a regular basis, just when they start feeling dirty to you or have rolled in something obnoxious or made friends with a skunk at close range. This breed is an average shedder. It your dog smells bad after a bath, head to the Vet and get the ears and skin checked - for instance your dog may have a hot spot - and they have an awful smell.
Make certain to check for ticks during tick season and pay attention to the length of the toenails. If they run on hard surfaces a lot, they will wear their own nails down. But if not, then you will either have to clip them yourself, or have a professional do it for you.
Exercise
Borders have no end to their energy both indoors and out. If left to their own devices, you won't like what you find when you get home (chewed walls, books, carpet etc.) Outside they will entertain themselves by digging holes. The goal would be to stimulate both the mind and the body of your Border - engage his boundless curiosity and intelligence.
An ideal workout for your Border would be a rousing game of fetch with balls or a Frisbee, throw in some swimming, running along side you while you bike and hiking. Don't expect your dog to entertain itself, because this one will not. They will wait for you, and if you don't come to engage them, will chew things they should not or present you with some very large holes in your lawn. You need to be very careful about heat exhaustion with the Border. They are so intense, they will often continue on past their limits unless you stop them and slow them down
The best exercise regimen for your Border Collie would be at least two 45 minute walks a day, no matter what the weather may be. While you may not be too happy with the weather, your Pet dogs doesn't mind in the least. This may vary depending on your dog, as each one does have its own personality.
While on your walks try to have about 20 minutes full tilt running off leash and include a game of fetch or even a tug of war. You need to also include at least 15 to 30 minutes of obedience training, trick training or other activities that keep your dog's mind sharp. If he's mentally stimulated he's happy. If he's happy, he's well-behaved.
If you don't think what you are doing is enough for your dog, don't increase the physical part of your routine, increase the educational portion instead. That would mean more obedience training, tricks - things to keep his mind busy - to stretch his mental limits. Working his mind will make him more tired than working his body - remember, their stamina is phenomenal. And they ALWAYS have energy to spare, even when you don't!
Training
Borders are one of the smartest breeds hands down and learn very quickly. Their intelligence isn't the issue the trainer is the issue. These dogs are very difficult for the average person to train.
These dogs are so intelligent that they can actually manipulate you to do what they want you to do. Some can be very willful and dominant - the Alpha dog - and the only way to work with that is to prove to them that you can make them do things.
They are very sensitive dogs and a harsh correction may make them freeze and shut down on you - for instance roll over on its back or pay close attention to something else besides you. Or, they may also get even more anxious and speed up, which will cause more miscues. You need to be firm and consistent with them because they will try and get away with as much as they can. Also be careful about sounds, as Borders are very sensitive to sounds.
The most frustrating part about training a Border is their hypersensitivity to the slightest sound or movement you make. They try to anticipate what you want them to do and guess at what comes next. Trying to get them to actually remain still and wait for the actual command is challenging to say the least. The best type of training for the Borders is motivational with lots of treats/play time.
And another love of Border Collies is tricks. They love learning new things and can be taught some great stunts like playing dead or rolling over - anything so they can show off. It appeals to the clown in them.
PetCare | Bichon Frises | Dogs
PetCare Bichon Frises
Description
A charming white powerful that loves children, the PetCare Bichon Frise is a small dog with loosely curled double-coated hair that is 3-4 inches long, and is virtually less hypoallergenic than other breeds. With a moderate muzzle that is not sharp or pointed, its bite is one of scissor, and has beautiful quizzical eyes that are dark and intelligent with well-covered hanging ears. The breed has a long neck and a well-developed chest, with a cute little plumed tail curled over its back.
The Bichon has a powder-buff appearance that is not only striking but derives from its double coat. This special coat has a double purpose, which is a soft and dense coat on the top with a coarser coat, with a "poodle" curly look until it is groomed. The double coat causes the fur to stand up, springing back when it is patted or touched. With a build that is longer than tall, the breeds quickly starts out with an effortless trot that is beautiful to behold-which was how it began in the show rings and as performers in their early development days. With no gross or incapacitating exaggerations, there is no inherent reason for any lack of balance or even unsound movements. If this is seen, the puppy has something wrong with it, and should not be purchased.
In the 1980s, the Bichon Frise was part of the "Yuppie Puppies" choice of the majority population, and everyone just HAD to have one. Due to this, over-breeding occurred with less experienced breeders or back-yard breeders who paid no attention to the higher quality traits, mingling all levels of the Bichon genetic lines. When purchasing ones, make sure you get personal references on the parents and previous litters out of that line before choosing.
Coat Description
The Bichon Frise has a double coat, consisting of a curly outer coat with loose hair and a soft, silky undercoat. This double coat keeps the dog warm in the winter and cool in the summer. But good grooming is required once shedding begins, as the undercoat needs to be removed once the weather begins to warm up or excessive shedding will leave piles of hair throughout the home.
Many people, instead of grooming their dog or having them professionally done, will shave the hair off completely in order to keep the dog cool in the summer. But what they do not know is that the hair being removed is what cools down the dog's body. Once this protective layer of hair is gone, the dog will become more susceptible to the sun, wind, and bugs. Shedding treatments, such as Furminator, help keep the extra undercoat cleaned out, so hair will not get all over the furniture or routine grooming--which is always better as it becomes bonding time for the owner and the dog.
History
The Bichon Frise was developed in the Mediterranean area, when a Barbet (a large water spaniel breed) was crossed with small white lapdogs. The Barbet name was later developed to "Barbichon cam," which was later shortened to "Bichon." Similar breeds that were developed from the Barbet were the Poodle (also called the Caniche) and the Maltese. Even though they are now separate breeds, they have a common ancestry that gives them certain similar similarities. The group of dogs known as the Barbichon developed into four breed lines: Bichon Bolognese, Bichon Havanese, Bichon Maltese, and the Bichon Tenerife.
The Bichon Frise of today has its ancestry in the Bichon Tenerife breed line, which found its way to the Mediterranean area, onto the Canary Islands or rather, "the Island of Tenerife." Called the Dog of Love, sailors used to bring these little puppies into the area for the women they admired and sought favors with. Eventually, the Bichon's popularity developed under Henry III. Carrying his little white Bichon around in court, other court individuals did as the king did. The term "bichonner" became one with the beautiful, beribboned, and pampered little Bichon Frise from then on.
As human nature does with mankind's whims and whistles, by the end of the 1800s, the cute little court favored cuddly pet was out on the streets. The little white dogs learned how to earn their keep by doing tricks in the circuses or fairs. The characteristics of the pampered darling of the court demonstrated to the world that its charm, cunning ability, and physical sturdiness brought the little dog to where he is now.
Grooming
A good rule of thumb is that the little white coat of the Bichon Frise needs routine brushing and combing every other day, along with scissoring and trimming once every other day. The Bichon does not shed, but the loose hairs have a tendency to become entangled in the coat, which become matted. This is a very big reason this breed should not be an outdoor dog.
Grooming requirements are based on coat type and the size of the dog. This refers to the fact a small or tiny dog with a lot of hair, such as a long-haired Chihuahua, would rank lower than a large dog with a lot of hair. Dogs that are shown in the rank will require much more care and grooming than what is generally suggested. Either way, the care of the coat is an important consideration before purchasing a dog of any breed. If daily or weekly brushing is not a favorite past-time, then getting a long-haired dog that sheds is not a smart thing to do.
Bathing should be done on all breeds, and breeds with long hair need more attention than breeds with short hair along with frequent brushings. The Bishon would need more frequent bathing as compared to a shorthaired dog, such as once a week or once a month-depending on the lifestyle of the Bichon. If the dog leads a sedimentary life and doesn't get out much, then it probably will not get too dirty. Bathing will remove oil and debris from the coat of the dog, which will cause matting. Ear cleaning and nail clippings should be done during this time as many small or toy breeds suffer from tooth loss or nail issues.
Exercise
Exercising a dog is the single most important thing in their dog, other than feeding/watering them. There is no dog that will not require some form of exercise, whether it is small, large, or huge breed. Also, each breed will require a different level of exercise than another breed. Also, age has a lot to do with it, as puppies should only be exercised until they become tired, and older dogs simply require less exercise. The problem is that all dogs require more exercise than what their owners are willing to offer them. A dog that requires average exercise could do with more, but usually have to do with less-simply because of an owner not willing to spend the time.
A low exercise level is recommended for the Bichon, because they exercise themselves throughout the day with their bouncy personality and high energy level anyway. Because the breed is small, and not much space is required, walks taken outdoors, family play in the yard are high priorities, or even playing at the park will suffice. This is not the breed to take out hunting all day, or hiking in the mountains.
Training
The Bichon Frise is an easy dog to train, as it is quick and intelligent. A naturally obedient breed, they have a history of being easily trained as a star performer, doing tricks, therapy work, and agility shows. This breed requires gentle and firm training, as they are so gentle and sensitive that any harsh training or negative corrections will have an opposite effect on the puppy or adult dog. But all trainers/owners will eventually need a collar and leash to begin the training-the many types available will depend on the person doing the training, as each one is a matter of personal preference and what the dog needs.
Some of the training collar tools that are acceptable for the Bichon training, as chain or nylon chokers will matt and tangle in their hair, are the buckle collars, leather-training collars, or even the reversed pinch collars. Each one will do well for training a Bichon Frise. The head collar is becoming very popular as a training tool for most dogs in training classes. It looks like a horse halter, going around the dog's face with a leash attachment under the muzzle. At first, the dog will fight the halter type collar, but once it gets used it-those who have used it say it works wonders and they have more control over the dog.
PetPlan - Training the Bichon works well with food treats along with the leash and collar. As each dog is different, the most important thing is that a well-trained dog will become a better companion along with way. Positive reinforcement and gentle training are the choice training of the day, with kindness, persistence, and patience. Oh yes, and lots of love.
A charming white powerful that loves children, the PetCare Bichon Frise is a small dog with loosely curled double-coated hair that is 3-4 inches long, and is virtually less hypoallergenic than other breeds. With a moderate muzzle that is not sharp or pointed, its bite is one of scissor, and has beautiful quizzical eyes that are dark and intelligent with well-covered hanging ears. The breed has a long neck and a well-developed chest, with a cute little plumed tail curled over its back.
The Bichon has a powder-buff appearance that is not only striking but derives from its double coat. This special coat has a double purpose, which is a soft and dense coat on the top with a coarser coat, with a "poodle" curly look until it is groomed. The double coat causes the fur to stand up, springing back when it is patted or touched. With a build that is longer than tall, the breeds quickly starts out with an effortless trot that is beautiful to behold-which was how it began in the show rings and as performers in their early development days. With no gross or incapacitating exaggerations, there is no inherent reason for any lack of balance or even unsound movements. If this is seen, the puppy has something wrong with it, and should not be purchased.
In the 1980s, the Bichon Frise was part of the "Yuppie Puppies" choice of the majority population, and everyone just HAD to have one. Due to this, over-breeding occurred with less experienced breeders or back-yard breeders who paid no attention to the higher quality traits, mingling all levels of the Bichon genetic lines. When purchasing ones, make sure you get personal references on the parents and previous litters out of that line before choosing.
Coat Description
The Bichon Frise has a double coat, consisting of a curly outer coat with loose hair and a soft, silky undercoat. This double coat keeps the dog warm in the winter and cool in the summer. But good grooming is required once shedding begins, as the undercoat needs to be removed once the weather begins to warm up or excessive shedding will leave piles of hair throughout the home.
Many people, instead of grooming their dog or having them professionally done, will shave the hair off completely in order to keep the dog cool in the summer. But what they do not know is that the hair being removed is what cools down the dog's body. Once this protective layer of hair is gone, the dog will become more susceptible to the sun, wind, and bugs. Shedding treatments, such as Furminator, help keep the extra undercoat cleaned out, so hair will not get all over the furniture or routine grooming--which is always better as it becomes bonding time for the owner and the dog.
History
The Bichon Frise was developed in the Mediterranean area, when a Barbet (a large water spaniel breed) was crossed with small white lapdogs. The Barbet name was later developed to "Barbichon cam," which was later shortened to "Bichon." Similar breeds that were developed from the Barbet were the Poodle (also called the Caniche) and the Maltese. Even though they are now separate breeds, they have a common ancestry that gives them certain similar similarities. The group of dogs known as the Barbichon developed into four breed lines: Bichon Bolognese, Bichon Havanese, Bichon Maltese, and the Bichon Tenerife.The Bichon Frise of today has its ancestry in the Bichon Tenerife breed line, which found its way to the Mediterranean area, onto the Canary Islands or rather, "the Island of Tenerife." Called the Dog of Love, sailors used to bring these little puppies into the area for the women they admired and sought favors with. Eventually, the Bichon's popularity developed under Henry III. Carrying his little white Bichon around in court, other court individuals did as the king did. The term "bichonner" became one with the beautiful, beribboned, and pampered little Bichon Frise from then on.
As human nature does with mankind's whims and whistles, by the end of the 1800s, the cute little court favored cuddly pet was out on the streets. The little white dogs learned how to earn their keep by doing tricks in the circuses or fairs. The characteristics of the pampered darling of the court demonstrated to the world that its charm, cunning ability, and physical sturdiness brought the little dog to where he is now.
Grooming
A good rule of thumb is that the little white coat of the Bichon Frise needs routine brushing and combing every other day, along with scissoring and trimming once every other day. The Bichon does not shed, but the loose hairs have a tendency to become entangled in the coat, which become matted. This is a very big reason this breed should not be an outdoor dog.
Grooming requirements are based on coat type and the size of the dog. This refers to the fact a small or tiny dog with a lot of hair, such as a long-haired Chihuahua, would rank lower than a large dog with a lot of hair. Dogs that are shown in the rank will require much more care and grooming than what is generally suggested. Either way, the care of the coat is an important consideration before purchasing a dog of any breed. If daily or weekly brushing is not a favorite past-time, then getting a long-haired dog that sheds is not a smart thing to do.
Bathing should be done on all breeds, and breeds with long hair need more attention than breeds with short hair along with frequent brushings. The Bishon would need more frequent bathing as compared to a shorthaired dog, such as once a week or once a month-depending on the lifestyle of the Bichon. If the dog leads a sedimentary life and doesn't get out much, then it probably will not get too dirty. Bathing will remove oil and debris from the coat of the dog, which will cause matting. Ear cleaning and nail clippings should be done during this time as many small or toy breeds suffer from tooth loss or nail issues.
ExerciseExercising a dog is the single most important thing in their dog, other than feeding/watering them. There is no dog that will not require some form of exercise, whether it is small, large, or huge breed. Also, each breed will require a different level of exercise than another breed. Also, age has a lot to do with it, as puppies should only be exercised until they become tired, and older dogs simply require less exercise. The problem is that all dogs require more exercise than what their owners are willing to offer them. A dog that requires average exercise could do with more, but usually have to do with less-simply because of an owner not willing to spend the time.
A low exercise level is recommended for the Bichon, because they exercise themselves throughout the day with their bouncy personality and high energy level anyway. Because the breed is small, and not much space is required, walks taken outdoors, family play in the yard are high priorities, or even playing at the park will suffice. This is not the breed to take out hunting all day, or hiking in the mountains.
Training
The Bichon Frise is an easy dog to train, as it is quick and intelligent. A naturally obedient breed, they have a history of being easily trained as a star performer, doing tricks, therapy work, and agility shows. This breed requires gentle and firm training, as they are so gentle and sensitive that any harsh training or negative corrections will have an opposite effect on the puppy or adult dog. But all trainers/owners will eventually need a collar and leash to begin the training-the many types available will depend on the person doing the training, as each one is a matter of personal preference and what the dog needs.
Some of the training collar tools that are acceptable for the Bichon training, as chain or nylon chokers will matt and tangle in their hair, are the buckle collars, leather-training collars, or even the reversed pinch collars. Each one will do well for training a Bichon Frise. The head collar is becoming very popular as a training tool for most dogs in training classes. It looks like a horse halter, going around the dog's face with a leash attachment under the muzzle. At first, the dog will fight the halter type collar, but once it gets used it-those who have used it say it works wonders and they have more control over the dog.
PetPlan - Training the Bichon works well with food treats along with the leash and collar. As each dog is different, the most important thing is that a well-trained dog will become a better companion along with way. Positive reinforcement and gentle training are the choice training of the day, with kindness, persistence, and patience. Oh yes, and lots of love.
PetCare | Afghan Hounds | Dogs
PetCare Afghan Hounds
Description
The Afghan Hound is a very ancient PetCare breed of dog with a regal and elegant bearing and carriage. They are highly recognizable with their narrow and tall body and long, thick and profuse coat. In general shape the Afghan Hound appears like a very tall and long haired Greyhound and like the Greyhound, they are capable of great speed and the ability to cover long distances without effort.The head of the Afghan Hound, like the body, is long and narrow. They are often described as having a very aloof appearance since they tend to carry their head high at all times. The profile of the head is rather straight from the top of the skull through to the slight stop and then the nose actually curves outwards in a slightly convex shape, referred to as a Roman nose. The muzzle is very tapered and refined and ends in a black nose on all coat colors. The eyes are always very dark in color and almond to triangular in shape, set into the head and not bulging or sunken in appearance. The eyes should give the look of calm intelligence. The ears are long and set across from the eyes. When pulled forwards the ears should almost reach the end of the long muzzle. The lips are tight to the teeth and the bite is even, with no underbite or overbite.
The neck is long and arched, blending nicely into the long, sloping shoulders and the narrow but deep chest. The neck is set high into the shoulders adding to the proud carriage typical of the breed. The back is straight from the withers to the hips and the appearance should be of lean power and muscles. The brisket is deep but not thick or heavy, with a definite cut-up to the abdomen. The hips are well developed and pronounced with powerful and long hind legs. The front and hind legs should be well boned but not heavy and should not appear slight or lacking in development. The legs will all be held close to the body as well as straight forward in orientation with the body. The pads of the feet are large and thick to allow these dogs to run over sand and through mountainous terrain.
The coat is long and profuse and the breed has a natural silky topknot. The coat can be of any color or pattern and color combinations are often more favored than solid colors. There is no white allowed on the head and all other areas white is highly undesirable. The tail is long, thin and very tapered and has a curve or a ring in the end but should never curl around and touch the body.
The Afghan Hound has a very flowing gait but also has the amazing ability to change directions almost instantaneously. They tend to have a very elastic and jaunty step with the front and hind feet seeming to move at the same spacing, making their footfalls in the same tracks.
Coat Description
The coat of the Afghan Hound is thick, long and very silky in texture. The hair is uniformly long across the body although adults will have a shorter smoother saddle area that extends along the back and ribs. The legs, chest and flanks and neck have long feathered hair and there is noticeable feathering on the ears. The head has a long and silky topknot that typically parts and falls to both sides of the head. For show the coat is left natural although cuffs may be clipped in long hair above the feet to accentual the size of the feet.
Most breeders prefer some pattern or color combination rather than solid colors, this may be one of PetPlan you to become your friend.
History
The Afghan Hound is an ancient breed that originated in what is now Egypt. There are records of the Afghan Hound going back approximately 4000 years when they were used for hunting as sight hounds. The dogs had to be able to chase prey and turn instantaneously in harsh terrain and in the mountains. The Afghan Hound moved with nomadic tribes from Egypt into the area now known as Afghanistan where they were used to hunt gazelles and other nimble and fast prey. The long, heavy and thick coat of the Afghan Hound has been developed over centuries to allow this breed to live in the high mountains in the extreme winter conditions found throughout the areas of the Middle East.
These dogs remained fairly isolated in with the native tribes of the Afghanistan mountains. They were not brought out of the country until the early 1900's when they were illegally exported from their native country to England. Still a relatively rare and exotic breed the Afghan Hound has been used for hunting, herding, watching, racing and as a
Grooming
Whorush: 75 sites by this AdSense ID The long, silky beautiful hair of the Afghan Hound requires regular, daily grooming to keep it in top shape and free from knots and tangles. To keep an Afghan Hounds coat in good shape it will usually take a commitment of several hours of grooming time per week. The breed is never clipped or trimmed on the body or head for show, although the leg cuffs may occasionally be trimmed for show.Typically an Afghan Hound being used as a show dog will be bathed at least once a week, however those that are used as pets will not require bathing this frequently. When grooming a pin brush and a wide toothed grooming comb is usually all that is required. A misting bottle filled with water or water with a few drops of dog hair conditioner or detangler mixed in is a great way to help detangle the coat and stop the coat from tangling back up after brushing. Unlike many breeds the Afghan Hound should be fully bathed before grooming if the coat is soiled, dirty or very matted. Trying to dry groom a coat will lead to more tangles and hair breakage that will significantly damage the appearance of the coat.
The coat should always be groomed from the area closest to the skin to the ends of the coat, not from the ends to the roots. Most owners will use a hairdryer to blow the thick coat aside to get to the area next to the skin. Other people choose to simply take their Afghan Hound to the groomer every two weeks for a complete bath and grooming. In addition a "snood" or hood can be used to protect the long hair on the Afghan Hounds ear's from getting into their food and keeping the hair around the head clean.
The commitment to grooming is essential for families or individuals thinking about choosing an Afghan Hound as a pet. These dogs cannot maintain their beautiful coats without regular, time consuming brushing and grooming. Understanding the commitment to grooming and the ongoing requirement is critical.
Exercise
The Afghan Hound is a breed that needs at least two 30-minute blocks of time per day to get out and run in a safe, fenced area. They will run just for the sheer enjoyment of it, with or without companionship. They do, of course, make terrific jogging companions but it is important to remember that jogging is not full out running for these dogs. They need to be able to gallop free and to stretch their muscles. Most breeders recommend at least two hours of exercise per day, with one hour being the absolute minimum the breed can tolerate.
The Afghan Hound needs to be exercised in a fenced area, as they will often simply refuse to return while they are running. They will also chase and are often used for lure coursing events. They will chase cars, cats, squirrels and anything else that catches their eye. However, they are also very obedient when trained on the lead, making them simple to walk and exercise on a regular basis.
Many Afghan Hounds will let down their aristocratic bearing and join the family in games and romps around the yard. They are not a natural retriever but can be taught to fetch and this can be a good source of exercise.
When the Afghan Hound is growing and developing they will often go through growth spurts at which time they are uncoordinated and awkward. It is very important to monitor exercise at this time and not overstress these puppies to prevent muscle and bone development issues.
Training
The Afghan Hound is a very intelligent dog but it does have an independent streak that requires patience and understanding. They need consistent and firm training but should never be treated harshly either in voice or correction as they will quickly become timid and may exhibit signs of becoming very nervous, anxious and high strung. Calm, gentle training as well as an understanding of the breeds needs to run and exercise on a daily basis is essential.
The Afghan Hound will often become bored of the same types of routines and training activities. Try to provide as much of a variety as possible. Never punish the dog for being itself, remember they are a hunting breed and have been bred for centuries to chase, manage the environment and always have the dog in a fence or on a leash to prevent run aways.
The Afghan Hound is often very difficult to housebreak and because of their large physical size crate training is usually not an option if the dog is beyond his or her puppy stage. Avoid punishing or harshly correcting the dog for accidents in the house, instead work on getting the dog or puppy outside faster and rewarding them for going to the bathroom in the right area.
An obedience class is an ideal option for an Afghan Hound. These classes provide both socialization as well as a way to learn to work with the nature of the dog. Be sure to look for a trainer that has experience in working with this beautiful breed of PetCare dog to make the most out of the class.
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