Afghan Hound
The Good
- Devoted loyalty to their owner
- Incredibly fast runners
- Friendly towards all people
- Minimal shedding
The Real
- Large size requirements
- High sensitivity levels
- Strong prey drive towards small animals
- Need early socialisation
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Afghan Hound is truly one of the most striking dogs you'll ever encounter - think supermodel meets athlete with a dash of aristocratic attitude. These magnificent sighthounds stand tall at 63-74 cm and carry themselves with an unmistakable dignity that's been turning heads for thousands of years.
Originally bred in the mountains of Afghanistan to hunt swift game like gazelles and deer, these dogs can reach speeds up to 60 km/h - that's as fast as a thoroughbred racehorse! Their unique hip structure allows them to pivot and change direction instantly, even on rocky terrain, making them natural athletes perfectly suited to Australia's diverse landscapes.
What makes Afghan Hounds special isn't just their stunning silky coat that flows like liquid gold in the wind, but their complex personality. They're independent thinkers who form incredibly deep bonds with their families while remaining somewhat aloof with strangers. Think of them as the thoughtful friend who takes time to warm up but becomes fiercely loyal once you've earned their trust.
In Australian homes, these hounds adapt well to active families who can match their exercise needs and appreciate their unique character. They're not your typical eager-to-please breed - instead, they're dignified companions who bring elegance and grace to every aspect of life, from morning walks along Bondi Beach to weekend camping trips in the Blue Mountains.
History
History
The Afghan Hound's story reads like something from an adventure novel, and it's one of the most ancient tales in the dog world. Some legends even claim that Noah chose a pair of Afghan Hounds to represent all dogs on the ark - though that might be stretching it a bit!
These magnificent dogs were originally developed by nomadic tribes in Afghanistan, Iran, India, and Pakistan thousands of years ago. They weren't just pets - they were essential hunting partners, bred specifically to track and chase swift prey across the harsh, mountainous terrain of their homeland. Their incredible speed and agility made them invaluable to these nomadic peoples who depended on hunting for survival.
Interestingly, despite being considered "unclean" animals in Islamic culture, Afghan Hounds held a special place of respect among Muslim communities because of their hunting prowess. That's quite an honour when you think about it!
The breed first caught European attention in the 19th century when British officers stationed in Afghanistan brought these elegant dogs back home. One particular dog named Zardin, brought to England by Captain John Bariff, became the poster child for the breed after winning 55 shows and even meeting Queen Victoria herself. The first breed standard was actually written based on Zardin's appearance in 1912.
After World War I disrupted breeding programs, dedicated breeders like Bell-Murray and Mary Amps rebuilt the breed in the 1920s. The long-coated variety that Amps favoured eventually became the standard we know today, and these dogs formed the foundation of breeding programs worldwide, including those that eventually made their way to Australia.
Traits & Characteristics
Afghan Hound characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Afghan Hounds are generally robust dogs with fewer health issues than many purebreds, but there are some important considerations for Australian owners to keep in mind.
The most significant concern is their sensitivity to anaesthesia due to their naturally low body fat percentage - a trait shared with other sighthounds. If your Afghan needs surgery, it's crucial to find a vet experienced with sighthounds. In Australia's major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, specialist veterinary hospitals are well-equipped for this, but rural owners should discuss this with their local vet beforehand.
Bloat is another serious concern, particularly given their deep chest structure. This life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and potentially twists. Australian owners should watch for symptoms like an enlarged abdomen, unproductive retching, restlessness, or loss of appetite, and seek emergency care immediately. Many vets recommend preventative gastropexy surgery, which can be done during spaying or neutering.
A rare condition called chylothorax, where lymphatic fluid leaks into the chest cavity, occurs more frequently in Afghan Hounds than other breeds. While not epidemic, it's worth being aware of breathing difficulties or exercise intolerance.
Eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts can occur, as well as hip dysplasia and thyroid issues. Reputable Australian breeders should provide health testing results for hips, eyes, and thyroid function. Regular vet check-ups, particularly in Australia's varied climate conditions, help catch any issues early and ensure your Afghan stays healthy throughout their 12-14 year lifespan.
Feeding an Afghan Hound properly is crucial for their health and athletic performance, and Australian owners have some excellent options to choose from.
These elegant athletes need high-quality nutrition to fuel their active lifestyle and maintain their stunning coat. Whether you choose premium commercial dog food or prepare fresh meals, the key is consistency and quality. Look for foods that meet international nutritional standards - brands readily available in Australia include premium lines that cater to large, active breeds.
Due to their bloat risk, meal management is particularly important. Feed your Afghan twice daily rather than one large meal, and always wait at least an hour after eating before exercise. This is especially relevant for Australian owners who love early morning beach runs or evening walks - timing is everything! If your dog tends to gulp their food, slow-feeder bowls or puzzle feeders can help reduce the risk.
Afghan Hounds typically need about 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided between meals, though this varies based on age, activity level, and individual metabolism. Active dogs participating in lure coursing or agility may need additional calories, while less active companions might need portion control to prevent weight gain.
For Australian owners considering a raw or home-prepared diet, consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure balanced nutrition. The key is avoiding overfeeding while providing enough fuel for their athletic build. Remember, these dogs should maintain their naturally svelte appearance - visible hip bones are normal for the breed, not a sign of being underweight. Fresh water should always be available, particularly important in Australia's warmer climates.
Let's be honest - if you're considering an Afghan Hound, you're signing up for a serious grooming commitment. But trust me, the results are absolutely worth it when you see your dog floating across a park like something from a shampoo commercial!
That magnificent flowing coat requires several hours of brushing each week to prevent mats and tangles. A quality pin brush and metal comb are essential tools for every Afghan owner. The fine, silky hair can quickly become matted if neglected, particularly around the legs, ears, and chest area. Australian owners should pay extra attention during spring when burrs and grass seeds are abundant - those long locks can collect quite a bit of bush debris during country walks.
Bathing needs to happen every week or two, followed by blow-drying to maintain the coat's condition and prevent matting. This might sound excessive, but it's essential for keeping your Afghan looking and feeling their best. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks can help maintain the coat's shape and health, and many Australian groomers specialise in sighthound coats.
Here's a practical tip for Australian owners: invest in a snood (a fabric tube that covers the ears and topknot) for meal times and muddy walks. This keeps that beautiful head furnishing clean and tangle-free. During Australia's wet seasons, consider protective clothing to minimise coat contamination.
For pet owners not showing their dogs, clipping the coat shorter is perfectly acceptable and significantly reduces maintenance. Regular ear cleaning is crucial due to the breed's folded ears, and nail trimming should be done regularly. The good news? Despite all that coat, Afghan Hounds are surprisingly low-shedding dogs.
Training an Afghan Hound is like negotiating with a brilliant, independent teenager - you need patience, creativity, and a good sense of humour! These dogs were bred to think independently while hunting, so don't expect the eager-to-please attitude of a Golden Retriever.
The key to success is making your Afghan think training was their idea all along. Use high-value treats, keep sessions short and engaging, and always end on a positive note. Positive reinforcement works best - harsh corrections will simply cause this sensitive breed to shut down completely. Australian dog training clubs often have experience with sighthounds and can provide valuable guidance for first-time Afghan owners.
Exercise requirements are substantial but manageable for active Australian families. These dogs need more than a quick walk around the block - think long walks, jogging (once mature), and ideally, opportunities to run full-out in secure areas. Dog parks with good fencing work well, as do beach runs in off-leash areas. However, never trust an Afghan off-leash in unfenced areas - their prey drive means they'll chase anything that moves, from rabbits to remote-controlled cars!
Lure coursing is incredibly popular among Australian Afghan owners, with clubs in most major cities offering this sport that perfectly matches the breed's natural instincts. Agility, rally, and barn hunt are other activities that can channel their athleticism constructively.
Remember, these dogs can jump surprisingly high, so your backyard fence needs to be at least 1.8 metres tall. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise - puzzle toys and training games help prevent boredom and destructive behaviour.
Who is an ideal owner?
Afghan Hounds aren't for everyone, and that's perfectly fine - they're looking for someone special who appreciates their unique qualities. If you're considering one, here's what you need to know about whether you'd make a good match.
Perfect Afghan owners are active people who genuinely enjoy the grooming process and see it as bonding time rather than a chore. You'll need several hours each week for coat maintenance, so if you're already stretched for time, this might not be your breed. Ideal owners often live in houses with secure yards, though they can adapt to apartment living in Australian cities if their exercise needs are met religiously.
These dogs thrive with owners who appreciate independence and dignity in their companions. If you want a dog who hangs on your every word and lives to please, consider a different breed. Afghan owners tend to be patient, consistent people who enjoy the challenge of building a relationship based on mutual respect rather than dominance.
Families with older children (10+) often do well with Afghans, as these dogs prefer calmer environments and can be sensitive to chaos and loud noises. They're not ideal for homes with toddlers or constantly crying babies. Single people or couples who lead active lifestyles make excellent Afghan owners, particularly if they enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, beach walks, or dog sports.
You shouldn't consider an Afghan if you're house-proud to the point of stress, work long hours regularly, prefer low-maintenance pets, or want a guard dog. These elegant hounds need companionship, regular exercise, and owners who appreciate their aristocratic nature rather than trying to change it.
Interesting facts about the Afghan Hound
Interesting Fact
Snuppy, an Afghan Hound, became the world's first successfully cloned dog in 2005 by South Korean scientists, requiring 123 surrogate mothers in the process
Interesting Fact
Pablo Picasso owned an Afghan Hound named Kazbekh who inspired one of his sculptures - the great artist was known for his love of various dog breeds
Interesting Fact
Their narrow skull provides them with an incredible 270-degree field of vision, much wider than most dog breeds
Interesting Fact
Ancient cave paintings in Afghanistan show these dogs hunting alongside humans thousands of years ago
FAQ
Yes, Afghan Hounds typically bond most strongly with one family member, though they can still be loving family dogs with proper training and socialisation. They tend to be somewhat reserved but form incredibly deep, loyal bonds with their chosen person.
Afghan Hound puppies typically cost between $2,000-$3,000 from reputable breeders. It's important to research the breeder's reputation and ensure health testing of the parents. You can also contact Afghan Hound rescue organisations to find adoptable dogs needing homes.
No, while both are sighthounds with keen eyesight and impressive speed, they're distinct breeds. The most obvious difference is their coat - Afghan Hounds have long, silky hair forming a thick coat, while Greyhounds have short, thin coats.
Afghan Hounds can adapt to apartment living in Australian cities, but only if their substantial exercise needs are met daily. They need long walks, regular opportunities to run in secure areas, and mental stimulation. A house with a securely fenced yard is definitely preferable.
Afghan Hounds require several hours of brushing each week, plus bathing every 1-2 weeks with blow-drying. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps maintain coat health. Many Australian owners invest in a snood to protect the coat during meals and muddy walks.
Afghan Hounds have an extremely strong prey drive and will chase anything that moves, including native Australian wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, or birds. They must always be kept on leash or in securely fenced areas to prevent them from pursuing wildlife, which could be dangerous for both the dog and the animals.
Afghan Hounds generally handle warm weather reasonably well, but their exercise should be scheduled for cooler parts of the day during Australian summers. In tropical areas like Darwin or Brisbane, they may need air conditioning during the hottest months. Their coat actually provides some protection from sun and heat when properly maintained.