Afghan Hound Grooming: Caring for the Long Flowing Coat

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Afghan Hounds are one of the most glamorous breeds, with a silky mantle that flows as they run. Maintaining it takes time, knowledge and patience. See also the Afghan Hound breed profile.

The coat

An Afghan has long, fine, silky hair over most of the body, with shorter hair on the back (the saddle) and a distinctive topknot. There is little undercoat, and the hair tangles easily. See silky-coat grooming.

Line brushing

Brushing must go through the whole coat.

1. Mist lightly with a conditioning spray.
2. Divide the coat horizontally, pinning the top layers up.
3. Brush the bottom layer from the skin out, using a pin brush.
4. Release a new layer and repeat.
5. Comb through to check.

Never brush a dry, matted coat roughly. See how to brush a dog properly and pin brush vs bristle brush for dogs.

Frequency

Every two or three days, at minimum. Daily brushing is better for a full coat. See how often should you brush a dog.

Bathing

Bathe every one to three weeks for a show-style coat. Brush first, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, rinse thoroughly and dry with a dryer on low while brushing. Never let the coat dry on its own. See how to bathe a dog at home and how to dry a dog after a bath.

Mat hot spots

Check the ears, behind the elbows, armpits, chest, thighs and tail. See how to prevent dog hair matting and how to remove mats from dog hair.

Trimming

Trim hair on the feet, around the rear and under the tail. See how to trim hair between dog paw pads and how to do a sanitary trim.

A simpler pet clip

Many pet owners have the coat clipped shorter, which is easier to brush and cooler in summer. Discuss options with a groomer. See dog haircut terms to tell your groomer.

Ears

The long, hairy ears trap moisture. Keep them clean and dry, and consider a snood at mealtimes. See grooming routine for floppy-eared dogs.

Skin

Afghans can have sensitive skin. Check while brushing, and see your vet for redness or itching. See dog skin allergies.

Nails and teeth

See how to trim dog nails safely and how to brush a dog's teeth.

Time and commitment

A full coat is a hobby in itself. Be honest about the time you can give, and choose the length accordingly.

Protecting the coat day to day

Afghans can damage their coats by rubbing on furniture, pulling against collars and rolling. Use a flat, soft collar or a harness that sits clear of the neck hair, and consider a coat wrap or protective snood for the ears at mealtimes. Keep the coat clean, since dirt makes hair brittle and speeds up matting.

Skin and coat health

A healthy Afghan coat comes from good diet, regular grooming and clean skin. If the coat looks dull, thin or breaks easily, talk to your vet about nutrition and health. See how to read a dog food label.

The takeaway

Line brush thoroughly, bathe and dry well and choose a coat length you can maintain.