Afghan Hound: temperament, size, care and health

About the Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is a large, light-framed sighthound with a long narrow head, a high topknot of silky hair and a coat that streams from the body in a heavy fall. The hair on the saddle and face is short, and the long coat covers the ears, flanks, legs and tail. The tail ends in a ring curl and the large feet are covered with thick hair. The proud carriage and exotic look make the breed unmistakable.

It was bred to run down game on rocky, mountainous ground, so its hips are high and wide and the feet are big and strong, giving a springy gait. At home it is a clownish, sensitive dog that is often aloof outside the family and keeps its own counsel.

Temperament and family life

An Afghan has a strong sense of self and will not beg for approval. It is loyal to its family, can be playful and silly indoors, and tends to be reserved with strangers. It is sensitive to harsh words and may sulk, freeze or simply walk away if treated roughly.

With children it can be a good companion if they are calm, but it is not a dog that tolerates being poked or dressed up, and its size makes it a risk to small kids. It often gets along with other dogs, especially other sighthounds. The chase instinct is strong, and cats and small animals that run are likely to trigger it. Left alone for long periods, an Afghan can become bored and destructive.

Exercise and training

The breed is a sprinter that also has stamina. It needs a daily walk and regular chances to run hard in a securely fenced space. Fences should be high, as an Afghan can jump well. It must never be trusted off leash in an open area, since it can see a moving animal from far away and will go after it.

Training is a challenge. The Afghan is intelligent but independent, and it does not respond to pressure. Food, play and patience work much better, and many learn simply by being allowed to see why a task matters. Early obedience classes help with manners and socialization. Housebreaking can be slow. Some owners enjoy lure coursing, which gives the dog a legitimate outlet.

Grooming and shedding

This is one of the most demanding coats in the dog world. The long hair must be brushed thoroughly, often several times a week, down to the skin to prevent mats, and it needs regular bathing and conditioning. Many owners use a professional groomer, and a pet owner who does not want to do the work often clips the coat short. Shedding is moderate, but the long silky hairs gather in drifts.

Ears must be kept clean and dry beneath their heavy hair. Hair between the toes needs trimming, and nails and teeth should be handled routinely. A coat that is allowed to mat can cause skin problems and pain.

Health

Afghan Hounds may have hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, cataracts and other eye problems, allergies and bloat. They can have an uncommon condition called chylothorax, in which fluid builds up in the chest, and they react differently from many dogs to some anesthetics because of their low body fat. Breeders usually screen hips, eyes and thyroid function. None of this replaces an examination, and a veterinarian is the person to ask about a particular Afghan Hound.

History

The breed is generally traced to Afghanistan, where hunters used the dogs to course hares, gazelles and other game in difficult terrain. British army officers returning from India brought sighthounds home in the nineteenth century, and the breed was later developed in England and then America. Its lineage is believed to be ancient, though early records are thin.

Is the Afghan Hound right for you?

An Afghan suits an experienced, patient owner who enjoys grooming and appreciates an independent dog, and who has a safe yard. It is a poor match for someone who wants quick obedience, a low-maintenance coat or a dog for off-leash trails.

If you like the coursing hound but want less hair, look at the Saluki or the Sloughi. For a long-haired alternative with similar reserve, consider the Borzoi.