Despite their super model looks, these hounds are gentle, loyal and even a little silly at times. Their independent spirit makes them a fun-loving yet perfectly poised housemate for experienced dog owners.
Personality and temperament
It’s hard not to be jealous of these good-looking hounds – that stance, the elegant neck and, of course, that long, flowing silky hair! They have it all. A gentle breed, Afghan Hounds can be affectionate, loyal and lots of fun, but they aren’t natural people-pleasers. Their streak of independence and strong will make them best for experienced dog owners with the patience and time to train them. While they can adjust to living with small kids and other pets, they may be better in one-dog households with older or no kids. Let’s just say, they like the limelight.
Size and appearance
An Afghan’s most famous trait has got to be their long, flowing lashings of fine silky hair. It helps if you’re an amateur hairstylist with these fancy fellows, as they do require constant grooming. Interestingly, though, they don’t shed as much as other long-haired breeds so can be a good choice for allergy sufferers. This striking, athletic breed is naturally statuesque, standing proudly at up to 74cm and weighing as much as 34kg. Their floppy ears, long refined muzzle, and prominent hip bones all contribute to their distinctly aristocratic appearance.
History
One of the most ancient dog breeds, Afghans date back thousands of years to the foothills and deserts of modern-day Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan. They were traditionally bred to help royalty and noblemen hunt for prey like deer, leopards and gazelles, so they needed strength, endurance and speed. Their long, luscious coat helped insulate them during the harsh winters and scorching summers, while their wide hips and large foot pads gave them stability on rugged terrain. The first Afghan Hound was brought to Europe in the late 1800s by returning British Empire soldiers, and the breed quickly became the hound of choice for gentry on both sides of the Atlantic. Though rare and quite expensive in the 20th century, everyone from Hollywood actor Gary Cooper to artists Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso loved their Afghan Hounds. Afghans arrived down under in 1935 and today, the elegant breed is still considered rare (but much loved) in Australia and New Zealand.
Health conditions that can affect this breed
Afghan Hounds are generally healthy dogs, however they can be prone to some common conditions, including:
- Hip dysplasia (where the hip joints don’t form properly)
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)
- Cataracts
- Allergies and skin sensitivities (including contact or food allergies)
- Bloat (GDV) (life-threatening stomach twisting)
- Laryngeal paralysis (airway issues more common in older Afghans)
Regular vet check-ups and care can help manage these conditions and keep your Afghan Hound healthy.
Food and exercise
Like other large breeds, Afghans require nutrient-dense, quality food that nourishes their coat and joints. Their wiry frame shouldn’t carry too much weight as it puts stress on their joints; however portion control and slow-feeders can help with food-loving hounds.
Given their history and physicality, it’s not surprisingly these large dogs need quite a lot of daily exercise – around 60-90 minutes a day will help keep them happy. Afghans are sprinters rather than long distant runners, so short bursts of speed suit them best. Think short walks, off-lead speedy zoomies in a secure space, lure coursing (they’ll chase anything that moves), moderate hikes, mental stimulation puzzles and scent games.
Grooming and maintenance
These long-haired beauties don’t shed seasonally, instead, they lightly shed year round. But don’t worry, a quick daily brush will keep their locks silky and your couch fur-free.
- Bathe: every 3-4 weeks
- Professional groom: every 4-6 weeks
How to groom your Afghan
- Fur: brush daily in sections to avoid breakage
- Nails: trim every 3-4 weeks
- Ears: clean weekly as long ears can trap moisture
- Eyes: wipe gently as needed
Training and space requirements
Being such large beauties, Afghans need room to move and stretch their legs. Larger houses work well, especially with fenced backyards as they tend to chase wildlife that dares enter their space.
Training a dog bred for hunting can be challenging, and Afghans have a strong streak of independence. They are, however, intelligent gentle hounds so consistent training, with boundaries and lots of positive reinforcement is the best recipe for success!
Best suited for…
Striking and intelligent, Afghan Hounds love their family pack passionately and can be an affectionate, entertaining housemate. They are best suited for experienced pooch owners, who are not afraid of a little training, a lot of grooming and quite a bit of exercise.
