If you can handle their personality quirks and independent nature, the Afghan Hound can be a good family pet that will attract many admiring looks on your walks. Just be aware of their stubborn streak and training challenges.
| Weight (pounds) Male: 45-60 Female: 40-50 | Height (inches) Male: 25-27 Female: 24-26 | Lifespan (years) 12-14 | Dog Breed Group Hound |
Characteristics Ratings
We rate 19 characteristics for each breed, divided into three categories:
Highest Rated – Characteristics for which this breed is rated 4 or 5 stars (on a 5 star scale).
Neutral Rated – Characteristics that rated 3 stars.
Lowest Rated – Characteristics that rated only 1 or 2 stars.
Highest Rated
- Good Family Dog
- Kid Friendly
- Good With Other Dogs
- Low Shedding
- Low Drooling
- High Energy Level
- Suitable for Small Yards/Apartments
- Tolerates Cold Climate
- Tolerates Hot Climate
- High Intelligence
Neutral Rated
- Friendly to Strangers
- Likes to Play
- Protective Nature
- Handles Change Easily
- Low Amount of Barking
- Good for Novice Owners
- Good General Health
Lowest Rated
- Easy to Train
- Tolerates Being Left Alone
General Overview
The Afghan Hound is one of the most ancient dog breeds. It was bred in Afghanistan originally and is a member of the hound dog group. It has a unique and attractive appearance, marked by a long silky coat and tapered muzzle, giving it an aristocratic look.
This is a very independent breed. While it is not shy or aggressive, it can be a bit standoffish around strangers and won’t always quickly warm up to unfamiliar people. With its owner, the Afghan Hound will be affectionate but will prefer to lie on the floor instead of on your lap.
The Afghan Hound is generally good around children but will do best with older children who can respect the need for its own space. Aggressive hair pulling and pinching from small children are not received well by the Afghan, due to its low pain tolerance and sensitive personality, and may even result in biting.
With a somewhat unusual personality, including being stubborn and hard to train, an Afghan Hound can difficult to find an owner that is the right fit. This means it’s not the best choice for a first-time dog owner.
Afghan hounds also are high energy dogs that need lots of exercise and opportunities to play and run around. Homes with large yards are best for this breed.
On the plus side, Afghans are highly intelligent and generally good with other dogs. They don’t shed, don’t drool much, and won’t bark all the time for no reason. They also can do well in apartments if you’re willing to give them plenty of exercise and frequent trips to the dog park.