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Need to Know
- Dog suitable for owners with some experience
- Potential health risks
- Enjoys active walks
- Large dog
- Minimal drool
- Requires frequent grooming
- Chatty and vocal dog
- Welcomes everyone happily
- Could have issues with unknown dogs but gets along with known dogs
- May need additional training to live with other pets
- Great family dog
- Needs a fenced-in yard, preferably in suburbs or rural areas
- Cannot be left alone
- AKC Registered Breed
Personality
While the Afghan Hound looks glamorous, they were originally bred to chase down game over the rough terrain of Afghanistan. They are well-mannered indoors, but once on the scent of something outside might not be able to shake it. While good with kids, they are not considered especially playful or affectionate, although they are devoted. Sensitive and independent, they can sometimes be aloof and reserved, especially with strangers. With family, they are happy-go-lucky and silly.
The Afghan Hound dog dates back to the Egyptian pharaohs but was most closely associated with nomadic Middle Eastern tribes. They served as coursing hounds, finding small animals, often with the aid of falcons. Fast and nimble, the Afghan Hound dog breed has incredible stamina. Their long and silky coats aren’t just for good looks—they help keep the dog warm in high altitudes. The Afghan Hound dog was isolated for centuries but first appeared in England in the early 1900s. They became a fad breed in the 1970s and are rare today.
The ideal owner for an Afghan Hound dog will appreciate the dog’s independence and intelligence. They need patient owners who can handle an independent thinker. Grooming will feature heavily in an Afghan Hound dog owner’s life, as will training. They need consistent training and socialization.
Moderate exercise is needed for an adult Afghan Hound dog. They enjoy free running in addition to leash walking.
Afghan Hounds are large and like space to stretch out, but the most important thing is that they have access to a fenced-in yard where they can run free.
Roll up your sleeves or break out your wallet—the Afghan Hound’s illustrious coat requires time and or money to keep in tip-top condition. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and mats and regular baths should be part of the dog’s grooming regimen. Despite all the hair, the Afghan Hound is considered hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for those allergic to dog hair.
Hounds don’t particularly enjoy training, and the Afghan Hound is no exception. They do need to learn good recall, especially since they enjoy free running. Early socialization of Afghan Hound puppies and dogs is ideal, as is training them to leash walk.
The Afghan Hound makes a good family dog for families that have the time and bandwidth to keep up with the dog’s exercise and grooming routines. They do best with families with no children or older children because they prefer quiet homes.
The cost of an Afghan Hound from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.
Learn more about feeding and caring for your Afghan Hound on Purina.
Did You Know?
- Legend has it that the Afghan Hound was on Noah’s Ark.
- Pablo Picasso loved Afghan Hounds.
- The Afghan Hound breed has scent glands in their cheeks which produce a pleasant musky odor.