Afghan Hound
Watch our video about the Afghan Hound!
The elegant afghan may have a tendency to look rather aloof, and in fact, the breed standard says that they are meant to look "at one and through one".Group: Hound
Size: Large
Coat length: Long
Grooming required: Every day
Coat sheds: No
Home size: Large House
Garden size: Large
Lifespan: Over 10 Years
Exercise: More than an hour per day
Afghans come in many colours with a long nose and an athletic build under a long, silky coat. They also have a saddle area of close coat. The build is similar to that of a Greyhound but they are more angulated.
Originally bred by tribes in Afghanistan for hunting, they are rather independent so not generally known for a high level of obedience. With a generally steady temperament, they don't bark overly but can be known to howl. Afghans can be aloof with strangers at first but can be won over. They tend to get on well with other dogs but their hunting instincts make them inclined to chase wildlife.
Afghans love to run and people often race them. As a result, they need a lot of exercise. Free running is ideal but they're also good escape artists so gardens have to be secure.
Their coat needs a lot of upkeep so thorough, regular grooming is essential. Moulting isn't excessive although the bitches tend to lose a lot of coat during their seasons.
The Afghan has changed little over the years so the breed remains strong and healthy. They're not prone to any particular health problems so are not routinely screened for anything.