Afghan Bay Retriever History
The Afghan Retriever (not to be confused with the Afghan Hound) is a breed of gundog that originated in the mountainous regions of Northern Pakistan. The dogs are descendants of Siberian hounds, which were brought to Afghanistan by invading British soldiers during the 1830s. The Afghans were initially used for hunting, but were later used primarily for guarding. The dogs were first imported into the United States in 2003, and later into Canada. The Afghan is now recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club, and the United Kennel Club.
Afghan Bay Retriever Physical Characteristics
The Afghan Bay Retriever is a medium to large sized breed that is typically 23 to 25 inches at the shoulders and weighs between 65 to 80 pounds. They have a large, muscular body and a medium length, thick, straight, flat, harsh coat of a bluish gray or steel blue colour. They have dark, almond shaped eyes. The head is triangular in shape, with heavy jaws and a thick skull. Their tails are carried erect and are long and heavy.
Eye Colors
Brown, Amber
Nose Colors
Black, Brown
Coat Colors
Red, Brown, Brindle, Sable, Gray
Height Range
Male Height Range: 27 – 29 inches
Female Height Range: 24 – 27 inches
Weight Range
Male Weight Range: 55 – 75 lbs
Female Weight Range: 50 – 70 lbs
Afghan Bay Retriever Health
Description of breed health.
Lifespan
10-14 yrs
Afghan Bay Retriever Health Concerns
Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Allergies, Hip Dysplasia, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Hypothyroidism, Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat, Cataracts
Afghan Bay Retriever Temperament and Behaviour
The Afghan Bay Retriever is a gentle, loving, and loyal dog breed. They are great with children and other pets, and make excellent family dogs. They are highly intelligent and trainable, and are often used as working dogs in various fields. Afghan Bay Retrievers are active and playful, and love to exercise. They are also very protective of their families and make excellent guard dogs.
Afghan Bay Retriever Activity Requirements
The Afghan is a medium to large-sized dog with a distinctive, thick coat. This is a hard-working, courageous, and loyal breed of dog. They are very intelligent and do well in obedience training. The Afghan is an energetic and athletic dog that enjoys being active and playing games. They are highly social and crave attention. An unexercised Afghan may become destructive and unhappy. An adult Afghan requires at least one hour of physical and mental activity each day. This can be broken down into several short walks or play sessions throughout the day. A short, brisk walk first thing in the morning is an ideal way to make sure your Afghan gets enough activity.
Miles Per Day
12 miles
Activity Per Day
60 minutes
Daily Food
3 cups
Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Afghan Bay Retriever is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Afghan Bay Retriever is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council
Not Recognized
Afghan Bay Retriever is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Afghan Bay Retriever is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.