Afghan Hound

AKC & CKC Hound Group

Is This the Right Breed for You?

✔ Excellent Match For

✔ People who appreciate elegance and exotic beauty in a dog
✔ Experienced dog owners who understand independent breeds
✔ Those who enjoy grooming and maintaining a luxurious coat
✔ Active individuals who can provide secure running areas

• Low scent: Known as the "royal dog of Afghanistan," they have minimal doggy odor.

• Quiet nature: Generally not excessive barkers, but will alert to strangers.

• Athletic ability: Excel in lure coursing and other sighthound sports.

✖ Consider Carefully If

✖ You want an eager-to-please, obedient dog (they're famously independent)
✖ You dislike extensive grooming (requires daily brushing)
✖ You have small pets (strong prey drive for anything that runs)
✖ You're a first-time dog owner (requires experienced handling)

• High grooming needs: Daily brushing required to prevent matting.

• Strong prey drive: Will chase small animals if not properly contained.

• Independent nature: Can be aloof and difficult to train with traditional methods.

Owner Suitability

Afghan Hounds are living art pieces with ancient hunting instincts. Their independence is often mistaken for stubbornness, but they're actually highly intelligent dogs who think for themselves. They require patient, positive training methods and will never be as obedient as working breeds. Their stunning coat demands serious commitment—expect to spend 30+ minutes daily on grooming. When properly socialized and given appropriate outlets for their speed, they can be surprisingly affectionate and loyal family members who move with unparalleled grace.

Stats:

Height: 25-27 inches
Weight: 50-60 pounds
Coat: Long, fine, silky; distinctive topknot
Colors: All colors including cream, red, black, blue, and brindle
Lifespan: 12-18 years

Origin & History

The Afghan Hound is one of the oldest dog breeds, with origins dating back thousands of years in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan. These regal dogs were prized by nomadic tribes for their exceptional hunting abilities, using their incredible speed and sight to course gazelle, deer, and even snow leopards in the harsh terrain.

Their striking looks made them favorites of fashion photographers in the 1970s, cementing their status as glamorous show dogs.

Today, while still capable hunters, Afghan Hounds are primarily companion animals known for their aristocratic bearing and independent personality.

Traits:	1	2	3	4	5
Energy: Moderate; bursts of speed but often couch potatoes				✓
Easy To Train: Independent thinkers; can be stubborn	✓
Grooming: High maintenance; daily brushing required				✓
Family Dog: Aloof but gentle; best with older children			✓
Watchdog: Good; will alert to strangers			✓
Beginner Friendly: Not ideal for first-time owners; independent and difficult to train	✓
Prey Drive: Very strong; will chase small animals					✓
Barking: Low; generally quiet, bark to alert		✓
Good with other dogs: Aloof; prefers human company			✓

Health Concerns:

Hip Dysplasia: Common in large breeds
Autoimmune thyroiditis: Immune system mistakenly attacks thyroid
Cataracts: Eye condition

Please check the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) and parent breed clubs for health information.

Glossary of general canine health conditions.