Afghan Hounds can come in a variety of colours, but white markings on the head are discouraged in showing. Many also have a black facial mask, and a small ring on the end of the tail, both of which are accepted features of the breed.

Origin of the Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound originated in Afghanistan, generally found in the cold mountains. This is the explanation for its long coat, as the breed often had to sleep outside in freezing conditions. They were originally bred as a hunting dog, used for coursing hares and gazelles. These origins can be seen today in the sport of lure coursing.

Sizes of Typical Male and Female Afghan Hounds

Males tend to be a little larger than females, with males standing between 66-71cm at the shoulder and females between 61-66cm. This trend carries over to weight, with males heavier at 20-27kg on average, compared to the female weight range of 16-23kg.

Afghan Hound Temperament

Despite being known for having a relatively low obedience intelligence, Afghans can be trained to a very high standard and are becoming common in the fields of agility and dog therapy. They are a regal, slightly aloof breed, but display a silly, playful side when running free playing fetch! However, they are not recommended as pets in a home with cats or other small animals due to their high prey drive.

Afghan Hound Coats

Afghan Hounds are known for their long, silky coats, which require considerable upkeep. They should be groomed at least once a day, especially after walks, as twigs and burrs can get caught and irritate the skin. Bathing is also important, but always dry your dog thoroughly as their long coat takes longer to dry than shorter haired breeds. Visiting a professional groomer once a month is also a good idea, to ensure the coat is kept at a reasonable length and to thin any excess undercoat.

Exercise Your Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds may look delicate, but they require a high level of walking and play to keep them healthy. They are definitely not suitable for apartment living, and potential owners are advised to ensure their outdoor area is enclosed and spacious enough for the breed to run in. Daily walks lasting no less than an hour are also necessary.

What Health Problems can Afghan Hounds Suffer From?

Afghan Hounds are one of the healthier dog breeds, with relatively few genetic disorders relating to this breed. Cataracts, necrotic myelopathy and hip dysplasia can crop up, but are generally treatable. The main problem owners should look out for are infections and mites in the ears – as they are long, floppy and covered in hair, it is easy to miss early warning signs of infections that can get out of control if not treated early.

The Life expectancy of an Afghan Hound

On average, Afghan Hounds live between 11 and 13 years.

The cost of an Afghan Hound

On average, Afghan Hound puppies in Scotland, England and Wales will cost around £400 – however, this price drops to around £250 in Northern Ireland and Eire.

Afghan Hound Puppies

Puppies of this breed are playful and love attention – it is especially important to socialise them from the age of seven months to prevent them becoming aggressive or nervous towards other dogs in later life. Careful grooming should also be implemented around this time, as they start to lose their puppy coat and it may become matted in the incoming adult hairs. Litters usually contain between 6 and 8 puppies.

Dog Groups Related to Afghan Hounds

Hound Group (Sighthound)

Similar dog breeds to the Afghan Hound

Greyhound, Irish Wolfhound, Saluki, Rhodesian Ridgeback