Afghan Hound vs Golden Retriever

Hound · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Golden Retriever is the larger breed at 65–75 lbs (males) vs 60 lbs for the Afghan Hound.
  • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Afghan Hound sheds less.
  • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAfghan HoundGolden Retriever
Group
HoundSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
AfghanistanScotland
Height (male)
27"23–24"
Height (female)
25"21.5–22.5"
Weight (male)
60 lbs65–75 lbs
Weight (female)
50 lbs55–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.

About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.

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Afghan Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism

Golden Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin conditions