Afghan Hound: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

The Afghan hound, known for its long, silky coat, is a medium-large and slim breed of dog popular for its show-worthy qualities. Though the breed originated in Afghanistan (where the breed name was Tazi), most of today’s Afghan hounds are thought to have originated in early 20th century Great Britain. In addition to their striking appearance, Afghan hounds are known for their independence and self-confidence as well as their sweet, fairly quiet, and humorous nature around humans they are comfortable with.

Characteristics of the Afghan Hound

It's tough to miss an Afghan hound when it trots by with its regal carriage, head held up high, and long locks swaying. This eye-catching breed is extremely self-confident, and with that comes a bit of a strong will and independent streak. When it wants, this hound can also act clownish, lazy, and a bit ditzy. This breed is highly sensitive to harsh commands, but still needs a gentle, but firm hand to guide its behavior.

History of the Afghan Hound

It is hard to pin down exactly when the Afghan hound first appeared, as its presence predates written history; however one of the first published descriptions of the breed appeared in a drawing by English soldier Thomas Duer Broughton when he was in India in 1809. Afghan hounds are considered one of nine ancient or “basal” breeds, meaning their DNA is more closely related to the dogs of ancient history than common contemporary breeds.

Afghans can be traced back to several regions in Afghanistan, with distinct differences in their coat and color depending on where they are from. Afghan hounds from mountainous areas have thick and dark coats while those from the desert have coats that are lighter in color and volume. For centuries, they have served as hunting companions for humans, who rely on them for their speed, quick and independent thinking, and panoramic vision—common traits of all sighthounds.

Today’s Afghans are primarily the result of breeding efforts made by the English in the 1920s. The breed had become a mainstay of British soldiers and noblemen in the early 1900s but almost died out during World War I, when resources shifted and it became difficult to breed and care for companion animals. In the mid-1920s, British military officers began bringing Afghan hounds to the West, and in 1927, the breed was registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC). By the 1980s, Afghan hounds in America had become mainstays of the show-dog and obedience circuits.

Afghan Hound Care

This breed has a somewhat high level of exercise and grooming needs due to its energy and long locks. After an Afghan hound has had the chance to run around, it will often be happy to settle in on the couch with its humans. Though brushing is a must for this dog, amazingly enough the Afghan's coat is almost dander-free, thanks to particles becoming trapped in its hair, a lack of an undercoat, and somewhat minimal shedding, which is why it's considered a hypoallergenic breed.

Exercise

Afghans need about two hours of daily exercise including walks or runs, as well as activities that make use of the Afghan's natural hunting drive, such as lure coursing. This breed loves to hike and swim, as well. It is also recommended that the Afghan has a chance to run off-leash in an enclosed area once or twice a week.

Grooming

Due to their long coats, grooming is an essential part of an Afghan's care. Its fine and silky coat must be brushed regularly to prevent mats and tangles, though baths are only required as necessary. Brush an Afghan hound’s coat multiple times per week to maintain its silky texture and reduce shedding.

Aside from frequent brushings, Afghan hound grooming requirements are relatively basic. Nails should be trimmed as needed and proper dental care provided on a regular basis. Long hair around their ears means that Afghan hounds are often prone to ear infections, so ears must be kept clean and checked regularly for signs of irritation or infection. Many Afghan owners tie the hair on their dog’s head up in a top knot to prevent it from getting into their food or trapping bacteria around their ears.

Training

Although they are known for their smarts, Afghan hounds can be aloof and stubborn when it comes to training. Unless the goal is to train for shows, obedience, or sport, most Afghan owners find it sufficient to stick to the basics of household training. Keep in mind that because their hunting drive is one of their strongest features, even the best trained Afghan hound may still refuse to listen to “stay” or “come” if they are on the pursuit of prey.

Common Health Problems

Like all purebred dogs, Afghans are prone to specific health problems, though that does not mean that all dogs of the breed will experience them. A responsible breeder will be open and honest about any known health conditions affecting the line a puppy is bred from, and will also provide health clearances showing that a puppy’s parents do not suffer from one of the health problems common to the breed, such as:

• Allergies: Skin allergies may cause itching
• Hip dysplasia: Affects hip joint functions
• Hypothyroidism: Thyroid gland does not make enough hormones causing problematic symptoms such as weight gain
• Juvenile cataracts: Opacity of the eye lenses
• Demodectic mange: Skin disease caused by mites

Diet and Nutrition

Like all dogs, Afghan hounds do best on a diet of high-quality, protein-heavy food. Adult Afghans should eat about 2 to 2.5 cups of dry food a day divided into two meals, though dry food can be supplemented in part or entirely by wet food. Afghan puppies, seniors, and those experiencing injury or illness have different nutrition needs, so it’s important to get clear directions from a qualified vet when determining their diet. Limit food and increase exercise for adult Afghan hounds that are overweight.

Where to Adopt or Buy an Afghan Hound

If you're able to give an Afghan hound the high amount of attention and exercise it needs, this breed could be the perfect dog for you. But be sure to do your research to get a full idea of what life with an Afghan hound is like. You can find additional information by reaching out to reputable Afghan hound breeders or Afghan hound rescue groups, including:

• Afghan Hound Club of America
• Afghan breeder directory (U.S.)
• Afghan Hound Club of America National Rescue (U.S.)

If you buy your Afghan from a breeder, expect to pay an average of $1,000 for this elegant dog. However, prestigious breeders may charge upwards of $2,500 to $5,000 for a show-worthy Afghan.

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More Dog Breeds and Further Research

Afghans are great dogs, but do some research on similar breeds to be sure. Breeds with a lot of the same characteristics include:

• Basenji
• Chow Chow
• Rhodesian Ridgebacks

All dogs are unique, but you can tell a lot about what you might be able to expect about a dog’s personality from their breed. For more information, check out all of our other dog breed profiles.