The Australian Afghan Hound Standard requires:
"The Afghan Hound MUST carry its head proudly"
This is a survial trait, a unique breed characteristic.
This is your trump card, use this breed feature to its
fullest. Its the one attribute no other breed has, this in
conjunction with this breeds amazing gait, makes the
Afghan Hound Nature’s ultimate show dog.
It is imperative you encourage your puppy to present
its high head carriage, this will automatically set
your pup apart from all other breeds.
When trotting never travel faster than the pup can comfortably
achieve. Never force, or pull the pup, or the pup is required
to side track, or over step to maintain your speed. Encourage
your pup to look up and focus, for show ring training.
Pups grow fast, their bones, joints and cartledges are green.
These joints can easily be damaged by aggressive win at all
costs handling. Remember the show ring should be lots of fun.
Pups begin to develop their mature balance and synchronicity
around 12-15 months, this is normally completed by 2 years.
Some pups are awkward and do not achieve their full potential
and maturity until 2+ years, Do not give up on your pup.
Always use a loose lead, keep your dog fit and healthy, lots
of free running and exercise. A fit healthy Afghan can trot
much faster than you can, (unless you are and elite athlete).
Afghans love to play, encourage this. Build the best possible
bond between you and your dog, this also goes for your
handler, (if this be the case). Always maintain a stimulating
environment for your dog. Afghans by nature are playful.
When lead training always provide a loose soft lead, dangle
the lead low under the chin, this will encourage head carriage.
Talk and maintain a rapport with your pup, reward your pup,
when it responds, acknowledge verbally. Pat with the
occasional morsel reward, this will help build focus and
positive response.