Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is one of the oldest domesticated dog breeds, dating back to nineteenth-century Afghanistan. It was originally developed to hunt mountain deer, boars, foxes, rabbits, and other animals. On the other hand, its gentle nature allowed it to be a devoted shepherd that protected its herd from predators.

The modern purebred Afghan Hounds originated from the strain called 'Bell Muray' brought to England in the 1920s and was Kennel Club registered since 1926. Some are believed to come from the group of Afghans brought by Mary Amps. In 1948, a breed standard has been officially established, which remains true today.

When it comes to grooming, the Afghan is a high-maintenance hound. To preserve its regal look, its mane requires regular brushing and bathing. It should not only be clean but also mat-free and tangle-free. To achieve this, a dog-friendly silky show shampoo, conditioner, and styling spray are needed. Remember to bathe it before brushing to avoid hair damage.

When it comes to other grooming routines, cleaning the Afghan Hound’s ear is very important. It has ears that drop, which are highly prone to ear infection. Make sure to clean the ears weekly with a cotton ball and ask a veterinarian to recommend the best ear cleanser to keep ear infections at bay. Dental care is also crucial for the Afghan Hound to prevent bacteria and other organisms from attaching to the teeth and causing damage. It is worth noting that this breed is prone to dental problems such as gum disease if teeth are not regularly brushed.

• Senior and less active: up to 1,100 calories daily
• Typical adult: up to 1,500 calories daily
• Physically active: up to 2,000 calories daily

The cost of purchasing an Afghan Hound is anywhere between £500 and £1,000. A Kennel Club-registered pedigree puppy is quite expensive and may cost well over £1,000. Being a high-maintenance breed, the Afghan Hound requires daily combing and professional grooming. Expect to spend £27,100-£30,800 over the dog’s lifetime.

Since the breed is predisposed to some health issues, healthcare cost contributes significantly to the expenses and can set you back over £1,000 annually. You can offset some veterinary costs when you get pet insurance with a lifetime policy. Insurance premium is £30 to £50 a month.