Afghan Hound

The history of the Aboriginal Afghan Hound is lost in the mists of time, making it one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. It is believed that its ancestors are ancient Asian sighthounds that have lived for millennia in the territories of modern-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the surrounding mountain regions. Unlike its famous relative, the show Afghan Hound, which was significantly transformed by Western breeders in the early 20th century, the Bakhmull has retained its primordial features. This is a true working dog, whose appearance and character were shaped by the harsh climate and difficult hunting conditions in the Hindu Kush mountains.

The name “Bakhmull” likely comes from the Dari language and means “velvet”, which is a nod to the dog’s unique silky coat. For centuries, these dogs were an integral part of the life of local tribes. They were not just hunters, but also a symbol of status and wealth. They were valued so highly that they were never sold, but could only be given as a gift as a sign of great respect.

In the 19th century, British officers serving in India and Afghanistan brought these dogs to Europe for the first time. However, real work on preserving and popularising the specific aboriginal type began much later, in the second half of the 20th century. The Bakhmull belongs to the large family of Eastern sighthounds, much like the Caravan Hound (Mudhol Hound) or the Rampur Greyhound, each of which has unique adaptations to its native region.

The appearance of the Bakhmull is the embodiment of functionality and elegance. Every feature of its body is perfectly adapted for fast running over rough terrain. The main difference from the show Afghan is a less extreme, but longer and silkier coat, and a more “natural” look.

• Head: Long, dry, refined, with a smooth transition from forehead to muzzle. The skull is not broad. The muzzle is long and pointed, but not weak.
• Eyes: Large, almond-shaped, often slightly slanted, giving the dog an oriental, mysterious expression. Eye colour ranges from dark brown to hazel. The gaze is intelligent, calm, and slightly aloof.
• Ears: Long, hanging, set low and lie flat against the head. Covered with long, silky hair forming “tassels”.
• Body: Typical for a sighthound. The back is straight and strong, the loin slightly arched, ensuring flexibility in the gallop. The chest is deep but not very wide, providing ample room for the heart and lungs. The belly is significantly tucked up.
• Limbs: Long, straight, muscular, and dry. Paws are large, compact, with strong pads, allowing the dog to move confidently on rocky terrain.
• Tail: Long, thin, curled into a ring or semi-ring at the end. Set relatively low. Carried low when at rest, raised when moving.
• Coat: The most characteristic feature of the breed. Very long, fine, silky to the touch. On the muzzle, forehead, and back (in the “saddle” area), the hair is short. On the flanks, belly, legs (“trousers”), and ears, it forms luxurious strands. This coat structure protects the dog from both cold and heat.
• Colour: Various colours are permitted – white, fawn in various shades (from cream to deep red), black, blue. Brindle and spotted variations are possible. A dark “mask” on the muzzle is desirable but not mandatory.

The character of the Bakhmull is as multi-faceted as its history. This is an aristocrat of a dog, full of dignity, independence, and restraint. At home, it behaves extremely calmly, almost cat-like. It can sleep quietly in its spot for hours without making a sound. If you are busy, the Bakhmull will never impose; it will delicately wait until you pay attention to it. It is very clean and tidy.

However, outdoors, especially in open spaces, it transforms. Its calmness is replaced by an explosion of energy, and it is ready to run for hours, demonstrating its incredible speed. Its hunting instinct is extremely strong. Any fast-moving object can be perceived as prey. That is why the Bakhmull must categorically not be let off the lead in unfenced areas.

The Bakhmull treats its family with great love and devotion, but expresses its feelings with restraint. It will not jump on you and lick your face. It shows its affection simply by being nearby, like a shadow. It is wary of strangers, sometimes even aloof. It needs time to accept a new person. The Bakhmull’s intelligence is very high, but it is combined with stubbornness. It is capable of making decisions independently, which was necessary during hunting. This trait makes it similar to other intelligent but independent breeds, such as the American Eskimo Dog, which also requires a special approach to training.

As an aboriginal breed that has undergone rigorous natural selection, the Bakhmull generally has robust health and good immunity. However, like any breed, it is prone to certain conditions:

1. Ear Problems: Due to long hanging ears that are poorly ventilated, Bakhmulls are prone to otitis and other ear infections. Regular checking and cleaning of the ears are mandatory.
2. Eye Diseases: Cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are occassionally found in the breed. It is important to choose a puppy from responsible breeders who test their dogs.
3. Gastric Torsion (Bloat/GDV): Like many large dogs with deep chests, Bakhmulls are in the risk group. To prevent this, feed the dog small portions 2-3 times a day and do not allow active play immediately after eating.
4. Sensitivity to Anaesthesia: Sighthounds in general, and the Bakhmull is no exception, have a low percentage of body fat, which makes them more sensitive to certain types of anaesthesia. Be sure to warn your vet about this before any operation.
5. Skin and Coat Problems: Long hair can become a haven for parasites (fleas, ticks). Dermatitis is also possible if the coat is not cared for properly.

Prevention is the best way to preserve your pet’s health. Regular visits to the vet, timely vaccination, parasite treatment, high-quality nutrition, and sufficient physical exercise are the key to a long and happy life for your Bakhmull.

The Bakhmull’s luxurious coat is its pride, but also the main trouble for the owner. It requires daily and meticulous attention. If grooming is neglected, the coat quickly mats into clumps that will be very difficult, and sometimes impossible, to remove without clipping.

• Brushing: This is a daily ritual. You will need special tools: a comb with sparse metal teeth, a brush with long bristles (pin brush), and a conditioning spray to facilitate detangling. You need to start from the tips, gradually moving to the roots, separating each strand. Pay special attention to places where mats form most often: behind the ears, under the armpits, and on the “trousers”.
• Bathing: Bathe the Bakhmull as it gets dirty, usually once every 3-4 weeks. Use only professional shampoos and balms for long-haired dogs. After washing, be sure to apply a nourishing conditioner, which makes the coat smooth and prevents tangling. The dog must be dried with a hairdryer while simultaneously brushing the coat, otherwise it will dry in waves and become tangled.
• Other Procedures: Regularly inspect and clean the ears with a special lotion. Trim claws every 2-3 weeks if they are not worn down naturally. Keep an eye on the cleanliness of eyes and teeth.

Training a Bakhmull is a challenge even for an experienced dog handler. Forget about harsh methods and drilling – this will not work with this dog. Its independent intelligence demands respect and a partnership. The owner must become an authoritative leader it can trust, not a dictator.

The method of positive reinforcement works best: praise, treats, play. Sessions should be short, intresting, and varied, otherwise the dog will quickly get bored. Do not expect unquestioning obedience from a Bakhmull, as you would from a German Shepherd. It will always “think” about whether it is worth carrying out your command. It is important to teach it basic commands (“come”, “sit”, “leave it”), especially those concerning safety.

Early socialisation is critically important. From puppyhood, introduce the dog to various people, sounds, places, and other calm dogs. This will help raise a confident, rather than fearful or aggressive, dog. Special attention should be paid to controlling the hunting instinct. Even a perfectly trained Bakhmull can forget everything upon seeing a cat or a squirrel. Its instincts, honed for hunting large game, are similar to those of other hunting breeds like the Bluetick Coonhound, and require constant control from the owner.

The Bakhmull is an aristocrat not only in character but also in matters of nutrition. They can be quite fussy. The diet must be high-quality, balanced, and meet their high energy needs. The optimal choice is professional super-premium or holistic dry food for active large breeds.

If you choose natural feeding, the basis of the diet should be lean meat (beef, turkey, chicken) and offal. The menu should also include:

• Sea fish (boneless) – 1-2 times a week.
• Cereals (rice, buckwheat).
• Vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, courgette) – raw or lightly boiled.
• Fermented milk products (cottage cheese, kefir).
• Vegetable oils (flaxseed, olive) for coat health.

It is categorically forbidden to give the dog sweets, smoked foods, spicy foods, fried foods, tubular bones, and food from your own table. The dog must always hav free access to clean and fresh water.

• Ancient Hunter: In their homeland, Bakhmulls are still used to hunt wolves. The dog does not kill the wolf, but catches up with it and holds it until the hunter arrives.
• “Cat-like” Grace: Bakhmulls are known for their ability to jump from a standing position to great heights and demonstrate incredible agility, reminiscent of the movements of big cats.
• Distinctive Run: Like all sighthounds, the Bakhmull runs with a double suspension gallop, during which all four paws leave the ground for a moment.
• Legend of Noah’s Ark: Although it is just a myth, it perfectly illustrates how ancient this breed is considered to be.
• Silent Hunter: Unlike hounds that drive prey with barking, the Bakhmull hunts silently, relying on sight and speed.

How does the Bakhmull differ fundamentally from the ordinary show Afghan Hound?
The main differences lie in appearance and character. The Bakhmull has a less extreme but more functional coat (with a short “saddle”), a more robust constitution, and a preserved working temperament. It is less decorative and more oriented towards functionality than a show career.

Is the Aboriginal Afghan Hound suitable for apartment living?
Yes, but on one important condition: daily, long, and intense walks (at least 2-3 hours a day) with the opportunity to run freely in a safe, fenced area. At home, they are very calm and take up little space.

Do they shed a lot?
Yes, there is shedding, especially seasonally in spring and autumn. However, due to the coat structure, it does not fly around the flat as much as with short-haired breeds, but mostly remains on the brush during grooming.

Do Bakhmulls get along with children and other animals?
With children who know how to behave with a dog, they are usually patient. However, this is not a nanny dog. They can get along well with other dogs, especially sighthounds. But they almost always perceive small animals (cats, rodents, toy dogs) as prey becuase of their extremely strong hunting instinct.

Do they need a special diet?
Not so much special as high-quality. They need a diet with high protein content to maintain muscle mass and sufficient calories to cover energy expenditure. Many owners choose food for active dogs or natural feeding.