Breed Guides

Afghan Hound Grooming Guide: Costs, Cuts & Care Tips (2026)

Complete guide to Afghan Hound grooming including costs, popular cuts, grooming frequency, and professional care tips.

Updated January 202610 min read
Afghan Hound with beautiful flowing coat

Afghan Hounds have one of the most stunning and demanding coats in the dog world

Quick Answer:

Afghan Hound grooming costs $100-$200+ every 1-2 weeks professionally. Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing and regular bathing to prevent matting. This is one of the most high-maintenance breeds for grooming.

Afghan Hound Grooming Costs

Here's what to expect for professional Afghan Hound grooming based on size and service type:

SizeWeightBasic GroomFull Groom
Afghan Hound50-60 lbs$100-$150$150-$200+

Annual grooming costs: $2,400-$5,200+ (based on grooming every 1-2 weeks).

For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.

Afghan Hound Coat Type & Care

Afghan Hounds have a long, thick, silky coat that flows elegantly. The coat is fine-textured and requires extensive daily maintenance. Their topknot and facial hair frame their distinctive face.

Coat TypeLong
SheddingLow (but high maintenance)
Grooming FrequencyEvery 1-2 weeks
BrushingDaily (30-60 minutes)
Grooming DifficultyVery High

Popular Afghan Hound Haircuts

Here are the most popular grooming styles for Afghan Hounds:

Full Show Coat

Best for: Show dogs and dedicated owners

Coat kept at full length with meticulous care. Requires daily brushing and frequent bathing.

Maintenance: Very High - daily 30-60 minute brushing sessions

Puppy Cut

Best for: Pet owners wanting easier maintenance

Coat trimmed to 2-3 inches all over for easier care while maintaining breed appearance.

Maintenance: Medium - brush every other day

Modified Show Trim

Best for: Balance between appearance and practicality

Body slightly shortened while keeping longer leg and ear feathering.

Maintenance: High - daily brushing of long areas

Summer Trim

Best for: Hot climates

Body clipped shorter for comfort, keeping characteristic head and ear styling.

Maintenance: Medium - regular brushing of remaining long hair

Afghan Hound Grooming Schedule

Follow this schedule to keep your Afghan Hound looking and feeling their best:

  • Professional grooming: Every 1-2 weeks
  • Brushing: Daily (30-60 minutes)
  • Bathing: Weekly
  • Nail trimming: Every 2-3 weeks
  • Ear cleaning: Weekly

Puppy Grooming

Start grooming from 8 weeks to establish routine. Afghan puppies have a different coat that transitions around 1 year old. Build up brushing duration gradually.

Senior Dog Grooming

Older Afghans may need shorter trims for comfort. Be gentle around any arthritic joints during grooming sessions.

Find a Afghan Hound-experienced groomer

Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with Afghan Hounds and similar breeds.

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Common Afghan Hound Grooming Problems

Severe Matting

The fine coat mats extremely easily, especially behind ears, under legs, and on chest.

Prevention: Daily thorough brushing and weekly bathing with conditioner.

Ear Issues

Long ear feathering can trap debris and moisture.

Prevention: Keep ears clean and dry, tie back during meals.

Coat Damage

Coat can become brittle or break from improper care.

Prevention: Use appropriate shampoos and conditioners, avoid harsh brushing.

At-Home Afghan Hound Grooming

Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your Afghan Hound's coat at home.

Essential Tools

  • Pin brush
  • Wide-tooth comb
  • Slicker brush
  • Detangling spray
  • Quality conditioner
  • Snood for eating

Grooming Tips

  • Brush in layers from skin outward
  • Use detangling spray before brushing
  • Bathe weekly with moisturizing products
  • Use a snood during meals to protect ear hair
  • Consider professional grooming regularly

Finding a Afghan Hound-Experienced Groomer

Not all groomers are equally experienced with every breed. Here's what to look for when choosing a groomer for your Afghan Hound:

  • Find groomers experienced with Afghan Hounds specifically
  • Ask about their approach to long-coated breeds
  • Ensure they have proper drying equipment
  • Look for show grooming experience

For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Afghan Hound grooming cost?

$100-$200+ per session, making them one of the most expensive breeds to groom.

How often should an Afghan Hound be groomed?

Professionally every 1-2 weeks, with daily brushing at home.

Do Afghan Hounds shed?

They are low shedding but extremely high maintenance due to coat length and texture.

Can I groom my Afghan Hound myself?

Basic maintenance yes, but professional grooming is recommended for bathing and trimming.

How long does it take to brush an Afghan Hound?

30-60 minutes daily for a full show coat.

What happens if an Afghan Hound coat gets matted?

Severe mats may need to be clipped out, potentially requiring a full body clip.

The Bottom Line

Afghan Hound grooming requires professional appointments every 1-2 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your Afghan Hound looking and feeling their best.

Find a groomer experienced with Afghan Hounds, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your Afghan Hound will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.

Find a Afghan Hound Groomer Near You

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