Afghan Hound
Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson
Known for their elegant beauty, Afghan Hounds are an independent, sweet breed known for their long, flowing coat of fur.
Average size and lifespan
Weight: 50-60lbs
Lifespan: 12 - 14 Years
Behavior
- Affection
- Kid-Friendly
- Stranger-Friendly
- Dog-Friendly
- Barking Amount
Care
- Grooming Difficulty
- Shedding Amount
- Easy to Train
- Can Be Alone
- Exercise Need
Environment
- Cold Tolerance
- Heat Tolerance
- Apartment-Friendly
Afghan Hound Information
The Afghan Hound’s locks of hair, while very regal, also serve an important purpose: protecting the pup from the harsh climate of the mountainous region from which it hails. Underneath is a strong, agile dog built for hunting.
Grooming an Afghan Hound is challenging, and training isn’t easy, but for breed devotees, the dog’s faithfulness, sophistication, and charm make it the perfect pet. He’s also good with children and other pets.
Afghan Hound History
While the Afghan Hound is an ancient breed, its origins aren’t well documented. It predates most modern breeds and is related to the Saluki. The dog comes from the area that includes Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan.
The early Afghan Hounds were hunting companions of royalty and tribal chieftains. The breed predates written history, which means it could even be one of the oldest existing breeds. Once the breed made it to the West, some famous owners included Zeppo Marx (of the Max Brothers) and Pablo Picasso.
Afghan Hound Training & Temperament
Afghans are independent hunters. They are dedicated to their owners and want to please them, but their independence can make them tough to train. You should be able to get them to learn the basic commands. They do have a strong hunting instinct, so you’ll want to watch for them to run off after possible prey.
Afghan Hound Exercise
Afghans are a high-energy breed that needs exercise. It’s best to find a good place for them to run, whether you’re a runner yourself or can find a nearby dog park or fenced yard. You’ll probably want to keep them on a leash or in a high-fenced area as they have a natural tendency to chase after prey.
Afghan Hound Grooming
Afghan Hounds have long hair that requires brushing to keep it from getting matted. They also will need to be bathed often to keep them clean. They aren’t active shedders like some breeds. Like other dogs, they should have their nails trimmed, and teeth brushed.
Afghan Hound Health
Afghans can experience bloat, a sudden swelling of the abdomen. Be careful not to run them immediately after eating or drinking large quantities, as that can be a trigger. They are also sensitive to anesthesia, so you’ll want your vet to be careful.
Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afghan_Hound, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/afghan-hound/
All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. However, please let us know if we made an error in the stats, we appreciate your help!
Breed FAQs
Can Afghan Hounds be apartment dogs?
Afghan Hounds aren't ideal for apartments, but might be able to live there successfully if there are enough opportunities to find larger spaces nearby to play.
Can Afghan Hounds be left alone?
While Afghan Hounds prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.
Are Afghan Hounds good with kids?
Afghan Hounds can do fine with kids. They will require some monitoring and training to make sure they get along and react well to unpredictable behavior.
Are Afghan Hounds friendly with strangers?
Although Afghan Hounds can take a bit to warm up to a stranger, they are mostly friendly with others.
Do Afghan Hounds get along with other dogs?
Although Afghan Hounds will mostly get along with other dogs, they may have some issues. They can typically be dealt with by socializing them with other dogs.
Do Afghan Hounds bark a lot?
As far as dogs go, Afghan Hounds bark an average amount. You can expect them to bark to alert you, get your attention, or when there are strangers or other dogs.
Do Afghan Hounds shed a lot?
The Afghan Hound rarely, or never, sheds. They're excellent for someone who doesn't want to clean up much dog hair.
Do Afghan Hounds need a lot of grooming?
The Afghan Hound requires continued maintenance to keep their coats in healthy condition. They're not the most demanding but are on the higher end.
Do Afghan Hounds need a lot of exercise?
The Afghan Hound has a good amount of energy and will need to be exercised with some walks and play to keep them happy.
Are Afghan Hounds easy to train?
Most Afghan Hounds are stubborn and will take extra work to train. They can still learn trained behaviors, but will take more effort.
Can Afghan Hounds handle cold weather?
Afghan Hounds do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they'll do well in colder climates.
Can Afghan Hounds handle hot weather?
Afghan Hounds do well in hot climates and can stay out longer without overheating.
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