Afollie
The Afollie is a cross between the Afghan Hound and the Collie. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Afollie. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is an aristocratic sighthound of ancient origin, distinguished by its elegant bearing and flowing coat. Males typically stand between 27 and 29 inches at the shoulder while females measure slightly smaller at 25 to 27 inches. Weight ranges from 50 to 60 pounds for males and 40 to 50 pounds for females, creating a lean yet powerful silhouette built for speed and endurance. The breed possesses a refined, chiseled head carried proudly on a long, arched neck that flows seamlessly into well-laid-back shoulders. Their overall structure is athletic and springy, with prominent hip bones, a level topline, and a distinctive ring curl at the end of their tail. The deep chest provides ample lung capacity for the stamina required of a coursing hound. The breed's most striking feature is undoubtedly its long, silky, flowing coat that covers nearly the entire body. This luxurious single coat has a fine, silky texture that requires extensive grooming to maintain its spectacular appearance. A distinctive feature is the short-haired saddle along the back, which contrasts elegantly with the long hair on the legs, ears, and sides. The topknot of long, silky hair on the head adds to their regal appearance. Afghan Hounds come in virtually every color and combination, including black, cream, red, silver, brindle, and domino patterns. The coat served as protection against the harsh climate of their native mountainous regions. Their large, almond-shaped eyes convey an expression that is both distant and dignified, often described as looking through rather than at you. The ears are set low and far back on the head, covered with long, silky hair that blends seamlessly into the coat. Their feet are large and covered with thick hair, originally developed to protect them from the harsh rocky terrain of their native Afghanistan. The tail is carried low with a ring or curve at the end, adding to their distinctive profile. The overall impression is one of dignified elegance combined with the athletic capability of a coursing hound bred to hunt in mountainous regions.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament As sighthounds, Afghan Hounds retain strong prey drive and the instinct to chase moving objects. They require secure fencing and should always be leashed in unsecured areas, as their speed makes them nearly impossible to catch once they spot potential prey. Early socialization is essential to help them develop confidence and appropriate responses to new situations. While generally good with children when raised together, their sensitive nature means they do best with respectful handling and may not tolerate rough play from young children.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Afghan Hounds have a higher incidence of certain cancers, particularly hemangiosarcoma, compared to some other breeds. Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, is another serious concern for this deep-chested breed. Owners should learn the signs of bloat and take preventive measures such as feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding exercise around feeding times. The breed is notably sensitive to anesthesia and requires careful monitoring during any surgical procedures. Hypothyroidism can also occur, affecting metabolism and coat quality. Regular veterinary checkups and preventive care are essential for maintaining optimal health throughout their lives.
Collie
The Rough Collie is a strikingly beautiful herding dog that combines elegance with functional structure. Males typically stand between 24 and 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh 60 to 75 pounds, while females are somewhat smaller at 22 to 24 inches and 50 to 65 pounds. The breed presents a picture of true balance, with no part out of proportion to the whole. The body is slightly longer than tall, with well-sprung ribs, a deep chest, and strong loins. The overall impression is one of graceful movement and effortless capability, reflecting their heritage as tireless herding dogs in the Scottish Highlands. The breed's abundant double coat is perhaps its most recognizable feature. The outer coat is straight, harsh to the touch, and lies flat against the body, while the dense undercoat provides excellent insulation against harsh weather. Males typically display a more abundant mane and frill around the neck than females. The coat forms distinct feathering on the forelegs and abundant furnishings on the hindquarters, creating the characteristic trousers. Recognized colors include sable and white ranging from light gold to rich mahogany, tricolor featuring black with white markings and tan shadings, blue merle with marbled gray and black patterns, and white with colored markings. The Collie's head is perhaps its most distinctive feature, presenting a lean, wedge-shaped appearance when viewed from front or profile. The skull is flat with a slight stop, and the muzzle is rounded and smooth, never appearing snipey or square. Almond-shaped eyes are set obliquely, giving the breed its characteristic sweet and gentle expression. The ears are three-quarters erect with the tips folding forward, adding to the alert appearance. The tail is long with an upward swirl at the tip and is carried low when the dog is relaxed but may be raised when excited, though never over the back.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Collies are generally excellent with children and are often called nursemaid dogs for their gentle, protective attitude toward youngsters. They are typically friendly with other dogs and can coexist peacefully with cats and other household pets when properly introduced. One characteristic that potential owners should consider is the breed's tendency to bark, which served them well as alert herders but may be problematic in certain living situations. Early training can help manage excessive barking. Collies thrive on companionship and may develop anxiety or behavioral issues if left alone for extended periods or relegated to the backyard without adequate family interaction.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Hip dysplasia can occur in Collies, though at lower rates than in some other large breeds. Dermatomyositis is an inherited inflammatory disease affecting the skin and sometimes muscles that is more common in Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs than other breeds. Progressive retinal atrophy is another eye condition that can lead to blindness and for which genetic testing is available. Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, can affect Collies due to their deep chest, and owners should be familiar with the symptoms and take preventive measures. Epilepsy has been reported in the breed at higher rates than some others. Regular veterinary care, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying current on recommended health screenings help ensure these beautiful dogs live long, healthy lives.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Afollie may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Afghan Hound and Collie to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.