Afghan Hound

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 12-14 years
The Afghan Hound, overall, is a healthy purebred, but there are a few health issues that these pups are predisposed to via genetics. Aside from breed-specific health conditions, there are also health problems, such as parvo virus, heart disease, and heartworms, that could affect the Afghan Hound in the same way that these conditions could have an impact on any dog of any breed without warning. You can help your Afghan Hound live a healthier, happier, longer life with routine vet check-ups, updated vaccinations, and a nutritious, well-balanced diet.

Hypothyroidism

This condition, often exacerbated by obesity and related health issues, occurs when the thyroid gland fails to secrete the hormones to stabilize metabolism and other bodily functions. Symptoms include hair loss, lethargy, chronic fatigue, depression, itchy skin, severe weight gain, excessive thirst and hunger, and general failure of the immune system. Lifelong thyroid supplements and vet-prescribed kibble are required.

Cataracts

This condition occurs when cloudy lenses begin to cover the entirety of the pupil. It is a painless condition, but it could lead to complete blindness. Surgery can sometimes fix this condition.

Other health issues that you, as a pet owner, should be concerned about are hip dysplasia, demodectic mange, and cold tail. On average, the Afghan Hound boasts a lifespan between 12 to 14 years. However, with proper care, a healthy Afghan Hound might live for up to 16 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

Afghan Hounds are some of the oldest purebreds in the world. Royals once revered their stature and overall graceful, strong appearance, and these pups were sought-after by wealthy individuals. Not much has changed throughout the history of the Afghan Hound. These pups are still elegant and charming with a natural gracefulness and quiet strength. As puppies, these dogs can be boisterous for hours at a time. But adult Afghan Hounds are more apt to sit around indoors.

Since adult Afghan Hounds would prefer to laze in the house, you need to make exercise enjoyable for them. Take her into a fenced-in backyard and actively incite a game of fetch or chase. When she is playing with a loved one, she is more prone to getting the exercise she needs to remain healthy and fit.

Training and socializing your Afghan Hound presents a challenge. These dogs are stubborn and arrogant with a natural dominance complex that lends them a sense of intimidation and apathy. They are highly intelligent and independent, so training and socialization might take months or years in some cases. These pups are a constant work-in-progress, so be prepared with patience, positivity, and a can-do attitude. They may test the limits of your frustrations, but it will be worth it if you stick with it.

Grooming

Grooming an Afghan Hound takes a lot of time and energy because these pups stand tall with lengthy, thick hair that gets wispy towards the ends. Daily brushing is required to keep their fur silky, smooth, and free of tangles. Use a medium-bristled comb to work out any kinks, then use a soft-bristled brush to remove excess hairs. Bathe your Afghan Hound once a month with gentle dog shampoo, paying close attention to the roots and the ends of her hair. You should also trim her hair every 6-8 weeks to prevent split ends. Or, take her to a professional groomer for bath, brush, and trim.

Other basic care needs that your Afghan Hound needs include brushing her teeth daily, clipping her toenails every 3-4 weeks, and cleaning her ears once a week with warm water, a vet-prescribed cleaning solution, and cotton swabs.

Diet

Afghan Hounds are tall dogs who tower over most other dogs, but their appetites are average for a medium-sized canine. Feed your pup 2 to 2 ½ cups of dry, high-quality kibble, divided into two meals per day. And keep some meaty treats on hand as rewards for good behavior and obedience.

The Afghan Hound is intolerant of extreme temperatures in either direction, but the summertime heat is especially grueling for them. These pups will commonly remain indoors if the weather doesn’t suit them, so keep some automatic water bowls nearby as a constant source of good hydration.
 

Find An Afghan Hound Breeder

Afghan Hound Puppies For Sale

Adopt An Afghan Hound

Cost

Afghan Hounds are both companion pets and show dogs. The average pet owner who would love an Afghan Hound as a companion can expect to shell out between $800 to $1,200 for Afghan Hound puppies. Whereas, show-quality Afghan pups that meet all of the AKC standards, with bloodline documentation to prove it, cost around $2,000 or more.

Before deciding on a breeder, make sure you have researched their reputation thoroughly and comprehensively. Some breeders are more interested in simply selling as many puppies as possible, not caring much about where their pups go or if those pups are in good health. You need a breeder who shows compassion and love for their puppies, of any breed. Ask to see the parents of your Afghan Hounds, the AKC documentations of any show or bloodline qualities, and the initial vet report for the first health check. Any reliable breeder will happily, honestly show you anything you want to see.

While it is most common to find an Afghan Hound at a breeder, you should check the local animal shelters first. Adoption fees vary anywhere from $75 to $250, and up to $500 with vaccinations and spay or neuter services. You would be giving a sweet pup a second chance at a new, happy home, which makes you the hero in the eyes and heart of your new Afghan Hound companion.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. Afghan Hounds are a 3 on the integration scale. These pups would be best-suited for pet owners who have worked with or owned dogs like this one before. These purebreds are big in stature, and their grooming regimen is extensive, so lots of time and commitment is required to take proper care of an Afghan Hound. These pups can also be a challenge to train and socialize, as their stubbornness and arrogance might get in the way. However, if you have the patience and positivity, the Afghan Hound is a good, albeit challenging, companion.

 

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