Afghan Hound Photo

Afghan Hound Dog Breed Info & Pictures

One look at the majestic Afghan Hound summons images of palaces, red carpets, and chandeliers. Afghan Hounds have a regal bearing and a distinctive, luxurious coat of fur that drapes down their sides like a royal robe. Their long noses are prominent, and their cultured faces are framed by a topknot of hair that is positively silky to the touch. Even their paws are covered in long fur, almost like slippers.

The color of the Afghan Hound’s coat varies widely, from dark to light. Their eyes are a unique almond shape, bordering on triangular. Their tail is long and adorned in more of their signature silky coat, and it has a slight curve at the end. The only parts of them not covered in their gorgeous hair is the saddle, flanks, and face. Afghan Hounds have long, elegant necks, but don’t mistake them for fragile. A hardy breed, they are much more active than their refined appearance might suggest. They are great dogs for families seeking a beautiful, active, independent pet.

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Afghan Hound Fast Facts

Hound
12 - 14 years
Afghanistan
Antiquity
60 lb
50 lb
26 - 28"
24 - 26"
Afgan Hound, Affgan Hound, or Afgaan Hound.
Baluchi Hound, Tazi

Photos

Temperament

The Afghan Hound is an aristocratic dog who is not afraid of mud....

They are sometimes called cat-like in their personalities. While they definitely enjoy affection, they arent prime cuddle-buddy material, a reflection of their strong sense of independence.

Afghan Hounds are more than just a tad bit stubborn. In fact, their stubborn streak is positively legendary. If they dont feel like responding to your call, they simply wont. These refined dogs arent going to greet strangers with bounding enthusiasm, and they would consider drooling, slobbering, and tail-chasing unfitting of their station in life. But, similar to a cat, they do become very close to a small circle of trusted friends. Given their refined personality, and a coat so long it seems prone to being tripped over, one could be forgiven for assuming these dogs prefer an indoor-only environment. Not so. Hardy and athletic, these dogs are deceptively fast and need a good amount of exercise. An Afghan Hound is perfect for an active family that wants a dignified pet who wont jump up on strangers or constantly get tangled underfoot.

Caring For a Afghan Hound

It takes a lot of work to look this good....

Weekly baths, regular combing, and regular exercise thats what it takes to maintain the Afghan Hounds show-stopping good looks and trim figure. The fine hair of their coat can become a tangled mess if it isnt cared for on a regular basis. If left unattended, it will become uncomfortable and even painful for them, so regular brushing is a must.

Afghan Hounds dont take well to spending a lot of time indoors and arent a good fit for apartment living. They need a yard and space to run. These dogs were originally bred to keep up with horses on the move, and their impressive speed is still a hallmark trait. Half an hour of walking a day, every day, is needed to keep them healthy and happy. This shouldnt be hard, because who wouldnt want to be seen walking down the street with this gorgeous companion at their side?

Afghan Hound History

Breed History

An intriguing history of hunting and a dash of mystery....

True to their name, the Afghan Hound was first introduced to Westerners in the 1800s in Afghanistan. But before that, their bloodlines are shrouded in mystery. No one really knows where they originally came from, though Egypt or Asia are both good possibilities. (Their slender, aristocratic appearance does lend itself to an Egyptian headdress.)

These dogs were bred to serve several roles, such as a hunter, herder, and coursing hound. A coursing hound is a dog that uses their eyes instead of their nose or ears to find their quarry. These dogs led the chase and were followed by hunters on horseback, which explains their incredible speed and strong desire for activity. Popularity dipped after World War I, but they quickly regained their place in the public eye starting in the 1920s. Recognized by the AKC in 1926, the Afghan Hound has found a place in the hearts of many as a family pet and show dog. Want to learn more about Afghan Hound puppies or Afghan Hound breeders? Check out our breeder directory!

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