Kuchi Grooming

The Kuchi is a big, muscular breed--but these huge dogs require little grooming. Their coats are usually short, and they're double-layered, so they'll shed heavily in the spring and fall; consistent brushing will be necessary to help collect dead hairs--but otherwise, Afghan Kuchi grooming is pretty simple.

Brush your Kuchi 2-3 times per week with a bristle brush or grooming glove, moving in the direction of hair growth. During shedding season, daily brushing is best; some people like to use de-shedding tools during these periods (and intermittently throughout the year) to help with dead hair collection.

Baths are generally needed every 2-3 months. When bathing a Kuchi, be sure to use shampoo made for dogs, as the human kind has a different pH and will irritate the dog's skin.

And no Afghan Kuchi haircuts are required. (See below to find out why shaving these dogs' coats is not recommended.)

Your Kuchi will also need maintenance in other areas. Brush the dogs teeth 2-3 times per week; clean the ears and trim the nails on a monthly basis.

Though owners can learn how to perform all elements of Kuchi grooming themselves, it's good to take the dog to a professional groomer at least once. The groomer can give the dog a nice makeover, and provide tips on how to groom a Kuchi at home.

In reality, the only Afghan Kuchi "style" possible is its natural one--so haircuts aren't necessary. Even so, some owners think shaving a Kuchi coat short will help keep the dog cool in summer and will reduce shedding. Simply put, both these ideas are myths.

Double coats on dogs act as natural insulation, and serve to regulate body temperature. On hot days, cool air is trapped between the layers to help keep the dog from overheating--and the same happens with warm air in freezing temps. A shaved Afghan Kuchi will be more susceptible to heatstroke and sunburn, and will get cold very easily.

Neither will a shaved Kuchi shed any less. Since it's the undercoat that sheds, unless the dog is shaved bald--never a good idea!--the undercoat remains and the dog still sheds.

The only reason to shave any part of these dogs' coats is in preparation for surgery or other medical procedures. Your vet will discuss this with you further.

So to anyone considering shaving their Kuchi's coat: put those clippers away!