Afghan Hound vs Irish Terrier

Hound · Large vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Afghan Hound is the larger breed at 60 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
  • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Irish Terrier sheds less.
  • The Irish Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAfghan HoundIrish Terrier
Group
HoundTerrier
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
AfghanistanIreland
Height (male)
27"18"
Height (female)
25"18"
Weight (male)
60 lbs27 lbs
Weight (female)
50 lbs25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier is a bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 27 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as bold, dashing, tenderhearted.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Afghan Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism

Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders