Afghan Hound
Updated November 27, 2025
The Afghan Hound is a sighthound distinguished by its thick, fine, silky coat and a tail with a ring curl at the end. Originally used for hunting large prey in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, they are cherished today as glamorous, yet sensitive and independent, companion dogs.
Aloof, Dignified, Independent, Clownish, Loyal
50-75 pounds
25-29 inches
12-18 years
Black, Cream, Red, Blue, Silver, Brindle, Domino
At a Glance
Good with Kids
Jump to Section
About Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a sighthound distinguished by its thick, fine, silky coat and a tail with a ring curl at the end. Originally used for hunting large prey in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, they are cherished today as glamorous, yet sensitive and independent, companion dogs.
What Makes Afghan Hounds Special
An aristocrat of the dog world, the Afghan Hound is a sight to behold with its elegant build and dramatic silky coat. Their appearance is one of dignity and aloofness.
Beneath the glamorous exterior lies a loyal, sensitive, and surprisingly playful companion, with a comical side that endears them to their families.
Afghan Hound History & Origin
The Afghan Hound is an ancient breed, with its origins tracing back thousands of years to the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, where it was used by nomadic tribes to hunt. They were valued for their speed, stamina, and ability to hunt by sight over difficult terrain.
The breed predates written history, making its exact origins difficult to trace.
They were developed to hunt large game like leopards and gazelles in the harsh Afghan mountains.
English officers returning from the Indian-Afghan border brought the breed to the West in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Afghan Hound in 1926.
The breed's popularity soared in the 1970s, becoming a symbol of glamour and aristocracy.
Afghan Hound Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Afghan Hound Appearance
The Afghan Hound is a breed that exudes elegance and grace. Their most striking feature is their long, flowing, human-like hair.
They have a strong, agile build with prominent hipbones, a curved tail, and a head held high with a proud, dignified expression.
Physical Features
Ears
Long and pendulous, set low on the head and covered in long, silky hair.
Eyes
Almond-shaped and dark, giving them a mysterious and far-seeing gaze.
Nose
Usually black and of a good size.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The coat is long and very fine in texture on the ribs, forequarters, hindquarters, and flank. From the face, the hair is short. A long, silky topknot adorns the head.
Coat Color
All colors are permissible. Common colors include black, red, cream, blue, and various brindle patterns. White markings are generally undesirable in the show ring.
Tail
The tail has a characteristic ring or curve at the tip and is not carried too high.
Afghan Hound Temperament
Afghan Hounds are known for their dignified and somewhat aloof personality. They are independent thinkers and can be stubborn, which makes training a challenge.
Despite their regal appearance, they have a playful and clownish side, especially with their families. They are loyal and form strong bonds with their people but can be wary of strangers.
Their temperament can be a study in contradictions; they can be fiercely brave but also timid, and lazy indoors but energetic and swift when running.
Early socialization is crucial to prevent shyness and develop a well-rounded temperament. They are sensitive dogs and do not respond well to harsh training methods.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Afghan Hounds have a lifespan of 12 to 18 years. They are generally healthy but can be prone to certain genetic conditions. Awareness of these issues is important for proactive care.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet checkups, genetic screening for common conditions, proper diet and exercise, and diligent dental care.
How to Care for a Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a high-maintenance breed, primarily due to its extensive grooming needs. They also require regular exercise and a patient, understanding owner who can handle their independent nature.
Grooming
The Afghan Hound's long, silky coat is beautiful but requires significant grooming. Expect to spend several hours per week brushing their coat to prevent mats and tangles.
Regular bathing with shampoo and conditioner is necessary to keep the coat clean and healthy. Brushing a dry coat can cause damage, so it's best to groom after a bath.
Pay special attention to areas prone to matting, like behind the ears and in the 'trousers'.
Nail trimming, ear cleaning to prevent infections, and regular dental care are also essential components of their grooming routine.
Training
Training an Afghan Hound can be challenging due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. They are intelligent but were bred to think for themselves.
Positive reinforcement with gentle guidance and firm consistency works best. Harsh corrections will often be met with a refusal to cooperate.
Patience and creativity are key. Keep training sessions short and engaging to maintain their interest.
Socialization from a young age is imperative to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults who are not overly timid or wary of new situations.
Diet
A high-quality, age-appropriate dog food is recommended for Afghan Hounds. The diet should be rich in protein to support their lean muscle mass.
Despite their size, they are known to eat less than might be expected. Monitor their food intake and body condition to prevent them from becoming overweight.
The specific amount of food will vary based on age, size, activity level, and metabolism.
Always ensure fresh, clean water is available.
Exercise
Afghan Hounds are sighthounds with a strong instinct to run. They need regular opportunities to run at full speed in a large, securely fenced area.
A minimum of a couple of long walks or about 90 minutes of exercise daily is recommended.
They are not reliable off-leash and should never be allowed to run free in an unfenced area due to their high prey drive and lack of road sense.
Activities like lure coursing can be a great outlet for their natural running instincts.
Environment
Afghan Hounds can adapt to apartment living if they are given sufficient daily exercise, but they thrive in a home with a large, securely fenced yard where they can run freely.
Their fence needs to be high as they are excellent jumpers.
They are indoor dogs that need to live inside with their family. They can become destructive if bored or left alone for long periods.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A home with a large, securely fenced yard is highly recommended.
Climate Adaptability
Tolerant of cold due to their coat, but can struggle in high heat.
Apartment Living
Generally not recommended due to their size and high exercise needs.
Best Suited For
Best suited for experienced, active individuals or families who have ample time for grooming and exercise.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Afghan Hounds good family dogs?
Afghan Hounds can be good with older, respectful children if raised with them. Their independent and sensitive nature may not be suitable for families with very young children.
How much grooming do Afghan Hounds require?
A great deal. They need several hours of brushing each week, plus regular baths, to keep their long, fine coat from matting.
Are Afghan Hounds easy to train?
No, they are known for being one of the most challenging breeds to train due to their independence and stubbornness.
Can Afghan Hounds be left alone?
They can tolerate being alone for reasonable periods but may become bored and destructive if left for too long or not exercised adequately.
Do Afghan Hounds bark a lot?
No, they are generally quiet dogs and not prone to excessive barking.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Crucial early socialization and gentle, patient training are key. Grooming habits should be established early.
Senior Care
Monitor for joint issues and adjust exercise accordingly. Regular vet check-ups are important.
First-Time Owner Tips
Not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their complex grooming needs and challenging training.
Looking for a Afghan Hound?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.