2. The Afghan Hound

With its dramatic, flowing coat and regal posture, the Afghan Hound is a true showstopper. This ancient sighthound breed originated in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, where its long, silky hair provided protection from the harsh climate. Today, that same glorious coat requires an extraordinary level of dedication to maintain in a home environment.

The Coat and Its Challenges

The Afghan Hound has a very fine, long, and thick coat that is strikingly similar in texture to human hair. This makes it incredibly susceptible to tangles and mats. Dirt, leaves, and twigs easily get caught in the long tresses during walks, and every outing can become a precursor to a lengthy grooming session. The coat is particularly prone to matting around the ears, legs, and underside.

A unique challenge arises during adolescence. Between approximately 9 and 18 months of age, an Afghan puppy’s coat transitions from a short, fuzzy puppy coat to its adult coat. During this phase, the puppy coat sheds into the new adult coat, creating a period of intense matting that requires daily, meticulous grooming to manage.

The Required Grooming Regimen

An Afghan Hound owner must be prepared for several hours of grooming per week. Daily brushing is not optional. The ideal tools include a pin brush for the main body of the coat and a slicker brush for areas with thicker hair. A metal comb is crucial for checking for tangles after brushing. Brushing must be done gently, layer by layer, to avoid breaking the delicate hair.

Bathing is also a significant undertaking and is typically needed every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the dog’s lifestyle. A high-quality shampoo and conditioner are essential to keep the coat healthy and manageable. After the bath, the dog must be thoroughly dried with a high-velocity dryer while being brushed out to prevent the hair from tangling as it dries. This process alone can take hours. Many Afghan Hound owners learn to become proficient at-home groomers, as the cost and time involved with professional services can be substantial.