A noble-looking breed, the Afghan Hound has been around since ancient times. It’s an independent dog that will require a lot of grooming and exercise. Here’s what you’ll want to know about this interesting and energetic breed.
Quick Stats
Group: Hound
Size: Medium/Large
Height: 27- 29 inches (68.58-73.66 cm.)
Weight: 58-64 pounds (26-34 kg.)
Shedding: Moderate
Grooming: Difficult
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Afghan Hound History
The Afghan is considered to be one of the most ancient dog breeds. It originated in Afghanistan where it was used by tribesmen as a sighthound in the deserts and mountains.
With its explosive speed, it could run down and catch a range of game and predators such as deer, rabbits, wolves, jackals, and even leopards. While it has been in existence since ancient times, in the past exportation of the breed was illegal. For this reason, it didn’t gain popularity in the West until the twentieth century.
Afghan Hound Characteristics
The Afghan Hound stands between twenty-seven and twenty-nine inches tall and weighs between fifty-eight and sixty-four pounds. It has an elongated and narrow head with strong jaws. The ears are long and covered with long hair. The tail is also long and is typically thin, ending in a curve or ring.
The Afghan Hound coat is lengthy and made up of rich and silky hairs that have an extremely fine texture. This creates an incredibly regal appearance for which the breed is well-known. The coat can be any color.
Afghan Hound Health
The Afghan is often very sensitive to medications and also anesthesia. As with all dog types, this breed is known to be affected by certain health conditions. The most common Afghan Hound health problems include:
-hip dysplasia
-tail injuries
-ear infections
-ear mites
-cataracts
-environmental and food allergies
-heart problems
The average Afghan Hound lifespan is from ten to twelve years.
Afghan Hound Temperament
This breed is intelligent yet sensitive. It can remain very playful even into its adult years and is good with children that are raised with it. Because the Afghan was developed to hunt on their own they are independent thinkers.
This can make them stubborn and more difficult to train than other breeds. Their hunting roots mean they will need a lot of daily exercise and if they don’t get it they can be destructive in the home. They also should not be trusted around small pets because of their high prey drive.
Afghan Hound Care
The Afghan is an energetic dog that will need at least one to two hours of exercise per day. For this reason, they can be an excellent choice for those who go on daily jogs. Having a yard that is large enough so that the dog can really run full out is recommended as well.
It will need to have a high and secure fence, however, as they are good jumpers and will chase after small animals without thinking twice about running off of the property. And of course, the Afghan shouldn’t be kept in a home with small pets which they may see as prey. Their long coat needs weekly bathing and a commitment to grooming. Brushing and combing are needed every day to keep it from getting tangled.
Afghan Hound Facts
-This is a breed that should always be walked on a leash. That’s because when an Afghan Hound commits to running after an animal it considers to be prey, it most likely won’t listen to verbal commands for it to stop or come back.
-Because of the breed’s sensitivity, Afghan Hound training should be done in a gentle manner that is fun for the dog and without harsh corrections.
-The Afghan will typically bond more closely with one or two members of the family whom it will follow commands from and prefer to spend the majority of its time around.
-While it may be long and flowing, the Afghan Hound coat does not shed nearly as much as other breeds. For this reason, it’s considered a hypoallergenic dog and can make an ideal companion for allergy sufferers.
-The Afghan’s feet have large and thick pads. These were very important for hunting in its homeland since they allowed the dog to run efficiently whether over sand or mountainous terrain.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Dogs With Pointy Ears
Let’s face it, there’s something special about the look of pointy-eared dogs. Luckily there are many breeds that have this appealing physical characteristic. So here are some of the best dogs with pointy ears and what to know about them. Corgi Both types of Corgi, the...
Small Dogs With Big Ears
There are many reasons to own a small dog and there is a wide range of amazing breeds to choose from. Many people find the ones with big ears to be particularly adorable. So here are some of the top small dogs with big ears to help you find the canine you’re looking...
Big Dogs With Pointy Ears
One of the most amazing things about dogs is that they come in every shape, size, and color imaginable! If you're looking for a certain physical trait in a dog breed, you'll be sure to find several different breeds that fit the bill. Today, we're going to take a look...
Small Dogs With Pointy Ears
Dogs with pointy ears come in all shapes and sizes. And luckily for fans of smaller-sized pooches, there are plenty to pick from. So we’ve compiled a list of the top small dogs with pointy ears to help you find the perfect pet. Scottish Terrier Scotties are small and...
Are Bull Terriers Stubborn?
Are bull terriers stubborn? To ask such a question would be like asking if the Earth is round, or if the sun is bright. This breed of dog has a strong personality and that is what makes it rather unique. A stubborn bull terrier is also a smart bull terrier. It knows...
Bull Terriers Are Ugly
Some people think that Bull Terriers are ugly, and others think that their egg-shaped head makes them look cute. Whatever your opinion of how Bull Terriers look, an indisputable fact is that the smart Bull Terrier is unique and quite distinct. Why Are Bull Terriers So...
Are Bull Terriers Smart?
Are Bull Terriers smart? Ask anyone who has ever had a Bull Terrier this question, and the resounding and unanimous answer will be a yes. They will also tell you that they are intelligent, funny, energetic, and stubborn. For all these reasons first-time pet owners or...
Dog Breeds That Drool
Heat, thirst, and hunger are the three things that can cause just about any dog to drool. Yet there are certain breeds that slobber much more than others. So before you decide on what type of canine you’d like to purchase, you’ll want to check out the following list...
Low-Energy Dog Breeds
When choosing a pet it is critical that you pick a breed with an energy level that matches your own. For many people, a low-energy dog is the best fit for their lifestyle. If this sounds like you, you’ll want to check out the top low-energy dog breeds listed here....
Lazy Dog Breeds
Not everyone wants a high-energy pet. Many potential owners would actually prefer to have a dog that has a lot less energy. So here are some of the top lazy dog breeds you’ll want to consider that work well with a more laid-back lifestyle. Chow Chow The Chow Chow is...
Brindle Dog Breeds
Brindle is one of the most unique coat color patterns that is only found in certain dog breeds, and a few other animals as well. A brindle coat looks similar in appearance to tiger stripes, but not as bold. That’s because it has streaks of color that are different...
Harlequin Dog Breeds
The harlequin coat pattern is rare in the world of dogs. This unusual pattern is also eye incredibly eye-catching. The following are the only harlequin dog breeds out there. Great Dane The Great Dane is a German breed that was created to hunt wild boar and also served...
Black And Tan Dog Breeds
There are quite a few dog breeds that are black tan in color. But before you decide on one, you’ll want to learn a bit more about the many different types out there. So here are the basics of the top black and tan dog breeds. Rottweiler The Rottweiler is a German...
Small Black And Tan Dog Breeds
Black and tan is arguably one of the most impressive coat colors a dog can have. And quite a few breeds can be found in this eye-catching color. However, not everyone is looking for a large or even medium-sized pet. So here are some of the top small black and tan...
Black Dog Breeds
Let’s face it there are adorable dogs in every coat color. Yet for many people, a black pooch is the cutest of them all. So here are the top black dog breeds you’ll want to check out when considering a new pet. German Shepherd The German Shepherd comes in a handful of...
Red Dog Breeds
White Dog Breeds
Dog breeds come in a range of different colors. Many people consider white to be the most attractive coat color of all. And there are quite a few breeds that have an all-white or predominantly white coat. So here are some of the top white dog breeds you'll want to...
Wrinkly Dog Breeds
Whether big or small, old or young, dogs with wrinkles always look adorable. It’s no wonder that so many people want a wrinkly dog of their own. So here are some of the top wrinkly dog breeds you’ll want to learn more about. English Bulldog For many people, the...
Spotted Dog Breeds
Depending on the breed a dog’s coat may come in many different patterns. Yet there is always something special however about a coat with spots. So here are some of the top spotted dog breeds you’ll want to learn more about. Bluetick Coonhound The Bluetick Coonhound is...
Stubborn Small Dog Breeds
There are many reasons to choose a small dog. And luckily there are many fabulous breeds to choose from. Yet there are some that can be more headstrong than others. This doesn’t mean they are any less amazing, but it’s something you’ll want to take into consideration....