Breed History
An intriguing history of hunting and a dash of mystery....
True to their name, the Afghan Hound was first introduced to Westerners in the 1800s in Afghanistan. But before that, their bloodlines are shrouded in mystery. No one really knows where they originally came from, though Egypt or Asia are both good possibilities. (Their slender, aristocratic appearance does lend itself to an Egyptian headdress.)
These dogs were bred to serve several roles, such as a hunter, herder, and coursing hound. A coursing hound is a dog that uses their eyes instead of their nose or ears to find their quarry. These dogs led the chase and were followed by hunters on horseback, which explains their incredible speed and strong desire for activity. Popularity dipped after World War I, but they quickly regained their place in the public eye starting in the 1920s. Recognized by the AKC in 1926, the Afghan Hound has found a place in the hearts of many as a family pet and show dog. Want to learn more about Afghan Hound puppies or Afghan Hound breeders? Check out our breeder directory!