Hounds are very independent, they weren’t bred to work closely with a handler like sporting dogs. I don’t know how bright afghans are, but it doesn’t surprise me that they don’t respond like most of the more popular breeds. I think they are more like cats in that way. BTW that’s why I prefer sporting breeds. Generations of being bred to work closely with a handler shows.
One of the great loves of my life was a Treeing Walker hound. He was hard headed, tenacious and SMART,SMART, SMART! As a dog groomer I’ve dealt with several afghan hounds. Not smart, yet all of the stubbornness of a scent hound (Afghans are sight hounds) and a very high prey drive. Not my idea of a good pet. But hey, if others want to own them, I just call that “job security” LOL!