With images dating back to around 1813, the Afghan Hound is a very old breed. They may also be known as Da Kochyano Spay, Sage Balochi, Ogar Afgan, Barakzai Hound, Eastern Greyhound or Persian Greyhound. They were bred for hunting and are a sight hound with great speed and endurance.
Afghan Hounds are a large dog, weighing between 20 and 27kg and around 61 to 73cm tall. Females are usually smaller than males. Their colours include gold, fawn, brindle, white, red, blue, cream, grey and tri colour.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Da Kochyano Spay, Sage Balochi, Ogar Afgan, Barakzai Hound, Eastern Greyhound/Persian Greyhound |
| Origin | Afghanistan |
| Bred for | Sighthound |
| Size | Weight 20 to 27kgs, Height 61 to 73cm |
| Weight range | 20 to 27kgs |
| Colours | Fawn, Gold, Brindle, White, Red, Cream, Blue, Gray and Tricolour |
| Life expectancy | 11 to 13 years |
| Coat | Long, fine coat, requires regular grooming |
| Temperament | Aloof, active, playful |
| Exercise requirements | High |
| Best suited for | Active households of experienced dog people |
| Apartment friendly | Better suited to larger properties |
Personality
The Afghan Hound is said to be aloof but loyal. They value exercise and excel at agility. They have an independent streak and suit an active household of experienced dog people.
As sight hounds with an instinct for hunting, it is important to take care if introducing them to other small animals and may not be the right dog for a household with other small pets such as cats, guinea pigs or birds. They generally enjoy the company of other dogs if socialised from an early age.
Grooming
Afghan Hounds have a very long, fine coat that requires considerable care and grooming. Regular brushing is essential to avoid knots in the coat and remove debris such as grass seeds. The long coat can hide parasites such as fleas and ticks, so make sure your Afghan Hound flea and tick control all year round.
Feeding
When choosing a food for your Afghan Hound, select a premium food appropriate to your dog’s age and life stage. Make sure that you feed a large breed puppy food to your Afghan Hound puppy to give them the best start in life. Always ensure your dog always has a supply of fresh, clean water available.
Common Health Concerns
Afghan Hounds are prone to gastrointestinal issues including gastritis, diarrhoea and vomiting. As a large breed dog with a deep chest, Afghan Hounds are also susceptible to gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). This is a life-threatening condition where the stomach becomes bloated with food and gas.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are also problems that can occur in Afghan Hounds.
Did you know?
Afghan Hounds can be sensitive to drugs such as anaesthetics and sedatives, thought to be due to a deficiency in a enzyme in the liver which breaks down certain drugs from the body.
Afghan Hound FAQs
Where can I get an Afghan Hound?
Although they are a pure breed of dog, you may be able to find an Afghan Hound or cross breed through a breed specific rescue. Also be sure to check out your local pet rescue shelter where you might find your new best friend.
How much does an Afghan Hound cost?
The price of Afghan Hound dogs varies between different breeding farms. At an average breeding farm, you can get one for $2000 to $2500 whereas at a reputable breeding farm, you'll find most Afghan Hounds priced up to $5500. Afghan Hounds bred in Central Asia are generally stronger and more expensive.
How much should you exercise your Afghan Hound?
Afghan Hounds thrive on open grounds and enjoy running around in fresh air. Long, daily walks around the neighbourhood are strongly recommended to keep an Afghan Hound's health in check and improve their quality of life. Afghan Hounds do not have many exercise needs, they do well with daily walks and healthy training.
How much should an Afghan Hound weigh?
Afghan Hound dogs are a medium to large breed and can weigh up to 35 kg when fully mature. A good rule of thumb for an Afghan Hound's healthy weight is to make sure there are no ribs visible. Healthy Afghan Hounds, both male and female, weigh between 26 and 34 kg.
What do Afghan Hound puppies eat?
Afghan Hound puppies need a lot of protein to grow and develop into a mature, functioning adult dog. One cup or a cup and a half of puppy-specific dry feed daily is enough to stimulate healthy development in an Afghan Hound puppy.
Is the Afghan Hound dangerous?
Afghan Hounds are generally very friendly and fare well with company. However, they are stubborn and get bored easily. Leash training for daily walks keeps their strong prey instinct at rest and meets their exercise needs well too. Afghan Hounds are sensitive and take their time to trust everyone.