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Afghan Hound: History, Temperament and Care

By Dhiraj Sharma · Published October 27, 2026

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A black-masked golden Afghan Hound with a flowing silky coat standing on a rocky mountain ridge in wind

The Afghan Hound is a long-coated sighthound from the mountains of Afghanistan, admired for its flowing silky coat and aloof, regal bearing.

Behind the glamorous show-ring image is a tough hunting dog. In its homeland it chased hare, deer, gazelle and even snow leopard across rocky, cold terrain, and its coat, large paw pads and powerful hips were adaptations to that land.

This profile is part of Finepedia's Dog Breeds of the World guide, which covers every major dog family from ancient times to today.

Origin and History

The breed developed among tribes in the mountains and plains of Afghanistan and neighbouring regions, where it hunted by sight, often working alongside falcons. DNA studies group it among the older, basal breeds.

British officers brought Afghan Hounds to Britain in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. A dog named Zardin, shown in 1907, became the model for the early standard. The AKC recognised the breed in 1926. It belongs to FCI Group 10, Sighthounds.

Appearance

Afghans stand about 61 to 74 cm at the shoulder and weigh about 23 to 27 kg. The long, fine coat covers the body, with a shorter saddle along the back. A topknot of long hair sits on the head, and the tail ends in a distinctive ring curl.

All colours are allowed, with cream, black, red, silver and black-masked gold among the most common.

Temperament

Afghan Hounds are dignified, independent and sometimes clownish at home. They bond closely with their family but can be aloof with strangers. Training needs patience, because the breed was bred to make its own decisions during the chase.

Like all sighthounds, they have a strong prey drive and should run only in secure areas.

Care and Health

Life expectancy is about 12 to 14 years. Health issues include hip dysplasia, cataracts, hypothyroidism and sensitivity to anaesthesia.

The coat is the main commitment: it needs thorough brushing several times a week and regular bathing to prevent mats. Many pet owners choose a shorter trim.