Afghan Hound Club of California (AHCC)

The Afghan Hound Club of America (AHCA) serves as the premier national organization dedicated to the preservation, protection, and advancement of the Afghan Hound breed. With a history spanning decades, the club is committed to ensuring that the natural qualities of this elegant breed are brought to perfection while maintaining the integrity of the breed standard as established by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Core Mission and Objectives:

• Preservation: The club focuses on protecting the breeding of pure-bred Afghan Hounds, emphasizing the importance of the official AKC breed standard as the sole benchmark for excellence.
• Education and Mentorship: The AHCA provides extensive resources for both novice and experienced owners, including breeder directories, mentorship programs, and comprehensive health care information.
• Sportsmanship: A primary goal of the organization is to foster a spirit of good sportsmanship among all members and participants in dog-related events.
• Community Building: The club actively encourages the formation of independent regional specialty clubs to support local fanciers and promote the breed across the United States.

Activities and Events:

The AHCA is highly active in organizing and sanctioning events that showcase the versatility and beauty of the Afghan Hound. Key activities include:

• Conformation Shows: The club hosts prestigious events, including the annual National Specialty and the Breeders' Cup, which celebrate the breed's physical characteristics and adherence to the standard.
• Performance Sports: Beyond the show ring, the club promotes participation in a wide array of canine sports, including Lure Coursing, Agility, Rally, Obedience, and FastCAT.
• Public Outreach: Members are encouraged to engage in public education and therapy work, serving as ambassadors for the breed.

Breed Standards and Rules:

The club strictly adheres to the AKC breed standard, which defines the Afghan Hound as an aristocrat of dignity and aloofness. The standard highlights the breed's unique features, such as its long silky topknot, prominent hipbones, and powerful, elastic gait. Members are expected to uphold these standards in their breeding programs and to prioritize the health and well-being of their hounds through recommended practices, including CHIC testing and participation in breed-specific health research.