Afghan Hound health problems & breed care

There may not be many about, but everyone recognises an Afghan’s long hair, designed for protection in harsh climates, and long legs built for high-speed chases or long days hunting. Calm yet alert, aloof Afghans save their energy for when they decide something is interesting. This can make them standoffish with strangers, though they often warm up and engage when the moment is right.

Their reserved temperament means they’re not always comfortable in chaotic households or noisy surroundings. While not naturally very vocal, some Afghan Hounds become noise sensitive, leading to reactive barking. They’re also not the best match for homes with young children, who are less likely to respect their need to interact on their own terms.

#Common health issues in Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds aren’t prone to many health conditions and typically live 12-14 years. However, as sight hounds, they are lean and sensitive to temperature extremes (when their coat is kept very short), anaesthetics and certain medications. 

##Physical issues

An Afghan Hound’s long, elegant legs can be prone to developmental problems like hip or
elbow dysplasia. Abnormal joints accelerate wear and tear, leading to inflammation, pain and arthritis. Early diagnosis allows for lifestyle changes to protect mobility or, in severe cases, surgery. 

Eye conditions include cataracts, where the lens becomes cloudy and blocks light, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a gradual vision loss that often starts with night blindness.

##Stomach issues

As a deep-chested breed, Afghans are at risk of bloat and a twisted stomach (gastric dilation
volvulus). This emergency requires immediate veterinary attention, but their long coat can make early swelling harder to spot. Time is critical, so owners should familiarise themselves with all the symptoms of bloat.

#Skin issues & allergies

Sensitive Afghan Hound skin, combined with trapped dirt and tangles, can lead to irritation and
infections. Regular brushing and thorough checks help spot problems hidden beneath their long coat before they escalate.

##Medical problems

Hypothyroidism is seen in many older dogs, causing lethargy, weight gain and hair thinning. In
sighthounds like the Afghan, naturally lower levels of thyroid hormones can make diagnosis more complex.  

A rare but serious condition that is seen in Afghans is chylothorax. Chyle is a milky fluid made when tiny fat droplets hitch a ride in the lymphatic system from the intestines into the chest, where the fluid enters the bloodstream via the thoracic duct. If this duct is damaged, blocked or inflamed,
the fluid leaks into the chest, causing breathing difficulties. A low-fat diet supports treatment, but in unaffected, active dogs, such diets could lead to unwanted weight loss.

Growing Afghans can experience panosteitis, painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs. With rest and pain relief, most recover completely. In young adulthood, hereditary myelopathy, also called Afghan Hound neuropathy, can cause spinal cord degeneration and progressive hind limb paralysis, though it’s rare.

In older dogs, the entrance to the airway can lose tone, becoming floppy and collapsing inward,
restricting airflow. Known as laryngeal paralysis, this condition leads to noisy, difficult breathing, especially during excitement, exercise, or in hot weather. Surgery helps, but the airway loses the ability to fully close and protect itself.

#Caring for an Afghan Hound

Why just stroke your dog when you can brush it? Grooming is an essential ritual for Afghan Hounds and can be relaxing for owners too!

##Diet & nutrition tips

• Large-breed puppy food is important during growth and development.
• Naturally bonier than other breeds, don’t feed your Afghan till it feels like a lab!
• Twice-daily meals and waiting at least 1 hour before exercise minimise bloat risk.
• Athletic dogs enjoying higher-impact activities benefit from joint supplements. 
• Centrally heated homes can dry out the skin and coat; consider extra support from skin supplements.

 ##Training & exercise tips

• Afghan Hounds jump, so high fences are essential.
• Allow full-speed sprints at least once a week in a secure area.
• Combine short bursts and longer distances to mirror natural activity.
• Running, hiking and chasing come naturally, but Afghans may consider obedience or agility work ‘pointless’.
• Basic obedience is essential, but don’t expect a vast repertoire of commands or perfect recall when there is something to chase.   
• Early socialisation helps Afghans coexist happily with cats and other dogs, but unfamiliar cats, small animals and even small dogs can trigger hunting instincts.
• Off-lead exercise can be dangerous, unexpected chases are risky for Afghans and anything they pursue.
• Early, calm exposure to a range of sights and sounds helps Afghans remain confidently aloof rather than timid or fearful.

##Grooming tips

Afghans come in many colours and shed very little, making them better for mild allergy sufferers, but not hypoallergenic.

• Expect several hours of brushing each week with a pin brush and comb.
• Take extra care during the transition from the short fuzzy puppy coat and monkey whiskers to the adult coat.
• Check ears, paws and skin regularly to catch hidden problems early.
• Some Afghans produce a pleasant natural musk from cheek glands.
• Daily tooth brushing is recommended as sight hounds are prone to dental disease.
• Use a snood to keep ears and hair clean while eating.
• Professional grooming is optional but can make upkeep easier.

#Conclusion

Afghans aren’t for everyone, their coat and personality demand time and patience, but their beauty, loyalty and comic charm are hard to beat. If you’d rather end a busy day outdoors brushing silky fur than scrolling your phone, an Afghan Hound might be just the company you’re
looking for.