Grooming the Afghan Hound
COAT
The Afghan’s hindquarters, flanks, ribs, forequarters, and legs well covered with thick, silky hair, very fine in texture; ears and all four feet well feathered. From in front of the shoulders; and also backwards from the shoulders along the saddle from the flanks and the ribs upwards, the hair is short and close, forming a smooth back in mature dogs. This is a traditional characteristic of the Afghan Hound
CHARACTER
The Afghan possesses an independent spirit. It is aloof and dignified, yet goofy and happy
RECOMMENDED CINDRA PRODUCTS:
| Problem | Solution |
| Dry, damaged Coat |
Our version of a hot oil treatment: Wet dog with warm water, apply Moisture Plus liberally. Wrap in hot towel for 15-20 minutes. Shampoo with Moisturizing Shampoo and rinse. |
| Detangling/Dematting | Apply full strength Moisture Plus liberally to the mat. Wait 15 minutes. Pull mat gently apart with fingers or comb. |
| Greasy Coat | Use Cleansing Shampoo instead of Moisturizing Shampoo. |
| Coat lacks body | Use Texturizing Shampoo instead of Moisturizing Shampoo |
| Flyaway hair | Make an anti-static spray with 2 Tablespoons Moisture Plus in 1-pint water. |
| Thin leg furnishings/feathers |
Spray diluted Texturizing Mist into a damp coat and fluff dry with a blow dryer. |
Grooming the Afghan Hound
By Cindra Grooming Products – USA-Made, Dog Grooming Essentials
Not every Afghan Hound is a show dog—but every Afghan deserves a coat that shines with health and beauty. The Afghan Hound’s long, flowing hair is its hallmark feature, giving the breed an unmistakable elegance. With proper grooming, that signature coat enhances every graceful stride and glimmer in the sun.
Keeping your Afghan Hound clean, conditioned, and mat-free is the foundation of a truly beautiful coat. Regular grooming not only keeps them looking magnificent—it supports healthy skin, prevents tangles, and strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
What You’ll Need to Groom an Afghan Hound
To achieve that silky, show-quality finish, you’ll need the right tools and products:
-
A gentle, dog shampoo – try Cindra Cleansing Shampoo for a thorough, residue-free clean.
-
A high-quality conditioner or cream rinse – Cindra Moisture Plus or Maxi Care adds hydration and shine.
-
A raised bathing area with a hand sprayer for easy rinsing.
-
A standing dryer for even drying.
-
A sturdy grooming table for comfort and control.
-
A large oval pin brush for daily brushing.
-
A slicker brush for removing mats and fluffing coat texture.
The Golden Rules of Afghan Hound Grooming
-
Maintenance is everything.
Consistent grooming keeps coats free of tangles and mats. -
Never brush a dry or dirty coat.
This damages the hair shaft. Always bathe first. -
Bathe before grooming.
Clean coats brush out smoother and stay healthier. -
Use a quality grooming spray.
Before brushing, lightly mist the coat with a conditioning spray like Cindra Maxi Care . -
Brush from the skin out.
Use a dryer to part the coat as you go. -
Use your fingers.
Gently locate hidden mats behind ears or under legs before brushing.
Bathing Your Afghan Hound
A raised tub with a hand sprayer makes bathing easier and prevents strain. Apply Cindra Cleansing Shampoo with the growth of the coat—never scrub or rub harshly. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear, then apply Cindra Moisture Plus Conditioner or Maxi Care Coat Spray for hydration and shine.
You may choose to rinse out the conditioner completely or leave a light coating for added manageability. Always pat dry—never rub with a towel—to avoid damaging the coat. If mats appear, gently work them out after the bath when the coat is well-conditioned.
Pro Tip: After de-matting, bathe again within two days to remove loose hair and restore texture.
Drying & Brushing
Let your Afghan drip dry for about an hour on towels before blow drying—unless your dog has a curly coat, which should be blown dry from wet to prevent waves. Start with the head, blowing the topknot forward for fullness. Work section by section, brushing in the direction you want the coat to fall.
Training the coat this way encourages smoother movement and natural flow—essential for both home grooming and show dog presentation.
Check paws carefully, drying between toes to prevent matting.
Oil Conditioning
Oil treatments can help maintain coat health and texture between baths. After shampooing, dilute ½ to ¾ cup of oil and conditioner in one gallon of water. Work evenly through the coat.
For example:
-
Cindra Moisture Plus + a light oil for silky coats.
-
Cindra Reconstructor + a heavier oil for cottony coats or dry hair.
Avoid baby oils, as they can cause buildup and flaking.
Nail Care
Nail trimming is a vital part of Afghan Hound health care. Use quality nail clippers or a rotary grinder, taking care not to cut the quick. On long-coated dogs, prevent tangles by slipping a sock over the leg and exposing one nail at a time.
Don’t forget the dewclaws! Regular trims help maintain healthy posture and prevent painful snags.
The Cindra Difference
Afghan Hounds require dedication—but the results are breathtaking. Whether your Afghan is a show champion or your couch companion, a consistent grooming routine with Cindra’s natural, USA-made shampoos and conditioners will keep their coat in peak condition. Our grooming products protect the coat’s texture, reduce matting, and enhance shine without harsh chemicals.
Because every dog deserves the best—and every Afghan Hound deserves to move like silk.