Afghan Hound vs Italian Greyhound

Hound · Large vs Toy · Small

Quick take
  • Afghan Hound is the larger breed at 60 lbs (males) vs 7–14 lbs for the Italian Greyhound.
  • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Italian Greyhound sheds less.
  • The Italian Greyhound is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAfghan HoundItalian Greyhound
Group
HoundToy
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
AfghanistanItaly
Height (male)
27"13–15"
Height (female)
25"13–15"
Weight (male)
60 lbs7–14 lbs
Weight (female)
50 lbs7–14 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years14–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
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 Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is a playful, alert, sensitive miniature sighthound — Renaissance lapdog favored by Italian nobility. Originally from Italy, this small toy breed typically weighs 7–14 lbs and lives 14–15 years. Breeders describe them as playful, alert, sensitive.

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Afghan Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism

Italian Greyhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Leg fractures
  • Dental issues
  • Hypothyroidism
  • PRA