After much maligning of its intelligence and trainability, the Afghan Hound can still laugh at the limited understanding of the people who seek to judge it. Remarkably intelligent and of a pleasant demeanor, the expectation is that this dog would be very "trainable". Instead, seemingly aware of its own worth, the Afghan "shuts down" on trainers that seek to use their limited knowledge, punishment based correction and harsh methods to force the Afghan to compliance. These trainers are not defeated by the dog's lack of trainability or intelligence as much as their own limited understanding of motivation and training. An interested Afghan is compelled to participate in whatever endeavor captures their interest. Granted, their heightened prey drive means that they will always have a distractability that creates a new challenge but that is far from making them less than a great training partner for the trainer that successfully finds tools for motivation and reward.

Not a good choice for an inexperienced home. This dog can be an exceptional option for the home that seeks high level training whether in Agility, Search and Rescue or even (relatively speaking) more leisurely activities like Pet Therapy but no short cuts can be taken in fundamental training like socializing, basic manners and play. This dog is not a good candidate for rough training methods, while very loving and loyal, inconsistent handling will create a dangerous relationship based on anxiety and confusion which might only lead to disaster.