Azawakh

The Azawakh is a strikingly elegant and athletic breed known for its regal bearing and keen hunting instincts. Also known as the Tuareg Sloughi, this breed comes from West Africa, particularly the Sahel region, this breed has a rich history as a guardian, hunter, and loyal companion. With their deep loyalty to their families, Azawakhs make wonderful companions. Whether bounding through open spaces or lounging at home, these majestic dogs captivate hearts with their grace, athleticism, and unwavering devotion.

written by

Harper Jefcoat

Source: AKC

Breed group

Purebred

Height

23 - 27 inches

Weight

33 -55 lbs

Life Span

10 -12 years

Average Cost

$2000 -$3000

Color

Black, Brindle, Fawn, Clear Sand

AKC Group

Hound Group

All About Breed

Read about the characteristics of the Azawokh breed to see if they will be the perfect fit for your lifestyle:

Azawakh History/Origin

The Azawakh dog breed has its origins in the Sahel region of Africa and a connection to the Tuareg people. For centuries, the Tuareg have carefully bred Azawakhs, shaping their characteristics to fit their nomadic lifestyle.

These dogs are vital to the Tuareg, serving as both skilled hunting and guard dogs for their herds and camps.

Living in the Sahelian zone of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, Azawakhs are well-adapted to the harsh desert environment. With their agility and sharp eyesight, they excel in hunting in the desert, ensuring the safety of the Tuareg’s livestock and families.

Azawakh History- Source: AKC.org

Despite their long history, Azawakh was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) under Hound Group in 2019. Now, they’re not just known for their role in Tuareg life but also gaining popularity as show dogs and beloved companions worldwide.

Azawakh Personality

Azawakhs have a special set of traits that make up their personality. They’re known for being dignified and independent, preferring to keep their distance from strangers.

But when it comes to their families and close friends, they’re incredibly loyal and affectionate. As watchdogs, they’re always on the lookout and ready to protect their home. Even though they’re watchful, they’re not aggressive and would rather avoid fights.

They have a strong prey drive and love to chase things that’s why they’re great at activities like lure coursing and agility. Inside, they’re pretty relaxed but still need regular exercise and things to keep their minds busy.

Overall, they are great companions for those who appreciate their loyalty, independence, and calm nature.

Potential challenges

Azawakhs are sighthounds bred for hunting, which means they have an instinct to chase small animals. This prey drive can manifest in behaviors like chasing squirrels or cats, which may pose challenges for owners in certain environments. Additionally, These purebred dogs are known for their independence. Which can translate to a stubborn streak and a preference for making their own decisions.

Practical advice for managing Azawakhs includes:

Early socialization
Positive reinforcement training
Channeling prey drive through supervised activities.

Azawakh Physical Appearance

Azawakhs have special features that help them hunt and look majestic. Their necks are long and strong, which helps them see far and spot prey easily.

Their muzzles are long, straight, and sharp, making them look noble and alert. They also have their ribs protruding.

Size

Azawakhs are medium-sized dogs known for their slender build. The typical Azawakh height is somewhere between 24 to 29 inches (males) and 23 to 28 inches (females) at the shoulder.

They weigh between 44 to 55 pounds (males) and 33 to 44 pounds (females), possessing a sleek physique built for agility and speed.

Azawakh Colors

The Azawakh’s coat can come in multiple colors, including red, clear sand, fawn, brindled, partial-color, blue, black, and brown.

Some may sport a black mask on their head, while most have white markings on their legs and tail tips. This white mark on their front legs is often compared to white stockings as it covers their entire legs.

They typically have a short and fine-textured coat that lies close to their body.

Red Azawakh – Source: the_azawakhs
Clear Sand Azawakh – Source: AKC.org

Azawakh Gender Differences

Male and female Azawakhs share many similarities in both temperament and physical traits, but there are subtle distinctions between the two genders.

Size

Generally, male Azawakhs tend to be slightly larger and heavier than females. They may stand a bit taller and have a more muscular build.

Temperament

Both genders exhibit the breed’s characteristic traits of loyalty, independence, and aloofness towards strangers. However, males may show more dominance, especially towards other male dogs, while females may display a nurturing demeanor, particularly towards puppies.

Azawakh Feed/Nutrition

Proper nutrition is vital for maintaining the health and vitality of your Azawakh. Ensure your dog’s diet consists of high-quality, protein-rich foods such as real meat to support muscle development and overall health. You can also add apples as an occasional treat, making sure to remove the seeds and core for safety.

Look for balanced dog foods designed for medium to large breeds, and be mindful of portion sizes to prevent overfeeding. Additionally, always provide access to fresh water to prevent dehydration, especially during hot weather or after exercise.

Avoid feeding table scraps and consult with your veterinarian to establish a feeding regimen tailored to your Azawakh’s age, weight, and activity level.

Regular vet check-ups will help monitor your dog’s health and address any dietary concerns.

Azawakh Health Problems

Like all dog breeds, Azawakhs are prone to certain health conditions, including:

Hypothyroidism: Azawakhs are prone to hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid gland condition that can cause weight gain, lethargy, hair loss, and skin problems. Treatment typically involves medication and dietary adjustments to manage symptoms and support overall health.
Seizures: They may experience seizures and sudden bursts of uncontrolled brain activity. Seizures can manifest as convulsions, loss of consciousness, or abnormal behaviors. Identifying and managing underlying causes, such as epilepsy, is crucial for appropriate treatment and support.
Cardiac Problems: This breed is at risk for various cardiac issues like heart murmurs, arrhythmias, and cardiomyopathy, which can lead to symptoms like lethargy, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Regular veterinary check-ups and diagnostic testing are important for monitoring and addressing cardiac health.
Autoimmune-Mediated Disease: Azawakhs are susceptible to autoimmune diseases where the immune system attacks the body’s tissues. Conditions like autoimmune thyroiditis and immune-mediated hemolytic anemia can cause symptoms such as lethargy, fever, and joint pain.

By providing proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups, owners can help mitigate potential health concerns. Ensuring these practices will help their Azawakh remain happy and thriving. Additionally, focusing on the breed’s resilience, athleticism, and adaptability is important. Prospective owners can then appreciate the many positive qualities that Azawakhs possess beyond their health challenges.

Azawakh Care and Grooming

Caring for your Azawakh is easy and low maintenance, thanks to their short coat. While they don’t require extensive grooming, a little attention goes a long way.

Brushing their coat occasionally helps remove loose hair and dirt, keeping it shiny and healthy. Additionally, regular dental care, including brushing their teeth a few times a week, prevents dental issues.

Keeping their nails trimmed is important for their comfort and mobility, and cleaning their ears helps prevent infections. By incorporating these simple grooming tasks into your routine, you can ensure your Azawakh stays healthy, happy, and looking their best.

Additionally, potty training your dog is essential for maintaining a clean and comfortable home environment.

Azawakh Rescue Groups

Many rescue groups help dogs find new homes. If you’re looking for a pet, think about adopting one. It’s a great way to give a dog a loving home and a fresh start.

Azawakh.org

InStrideAzawakh.com

How Much Azawakh Cost?

The average Azawakh price ranges from $2000 to $3000. If you’re thinking of getting an Azawakh puppy, make sure you find a good breeder. Look for breeders who take good care of their dogs’ health and happiness.

MarketPlace.AKC.org

GoodDog.com

Interesting Facts

Azawakh is among the fastest dog breeds, being able to run up to 45 mph.
This dog breed gets its name from the Azawakh Valley where it is said to have originated from.
They have been featured in the Breed Judging Show 2022.

Best For

Azawakhs excel as both companions and working dogs, thriving in environments where they have space to run and explore.

Top Names

Male Azawakh Names	Female Azawakh Names
Malik	Zahra
Tariq	Suri
Zephyr	Ayana
Koda	Luna
Atlas	Maya

Pet Ratings

Adaptability

They are not the best dogs for first-timers but not the worst as well. They are known to be friendly and easy to train, which can make them a great pick for first-timers. The downside is that they require a lot of attention and grooming, which first-time pet owners may not have the time, training, or patience for.

Friendliness

There are different types of friendliness. Some dogs may be friendly to humans but not to other dogs. Other dogs may be friendly to both humans and other dogs. The breed is not the only factor that determines how friendly a dog will be. Dogs who have spent time with their siblings and mother until they are six to eight weeks old and have played with other dogs a lot during puppyhood are more likely to be friendly to other dogs.

Health and Grooming Needs

Some breeds of dogs such as this one, are more likely to have certain health problems. This doesn't mean that every dog of that breed will have those diseases, but they are more likely to. If you're adopting a puppy, it's a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed.

Trainability

Dogs that are easy to train learn new things quickly. They quickly learn that if they have to do something when you say a word or sound, they will get a reward. Other dogs need more time and patience to learn this. But most breeds of dog are intelligent. This means that you can use rewards and games to teach them what you want them to do.

Exercise Needs

Different breeds of dogs have different needs when it comes to exercise. Some breeds are fine with a slow stroll around the block once a day, while others need more vigorous exercise every day. Breeds that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting, need especially active lifestyles to stay healthy and happy. Without enough exercise, these breeds may become overweight and destructive.

Key Takeaways

Rich Heritage: Azawakhs have a deep connection to the Tuareg people and boast a history rooted in the Sahel region of Africa.

Distinct Personality: Known for their dignity and independence, Azawakhs are also fiercely loyal to their families.

Regal Appearance: With long necks, chiseled muzzles, and slender builds, Azawakhs have a majestic presence.

Health Awareness: They may be prone to health issues like hypothyroidism and seizures.

Care Essentials: Despite their short coat, they require regular brushing, dental care, nail trimming, and ear cleaning.

Impressive Speed: They are one of the fastest dog breeds, capable of running up to 45 mph, showcasing their athleticism.

Versatile Companions: This breed adapts well to various environments and lifestyles, making them excellent companions for active households.

Are Azawakh rare?

Yes, Azawakhs are considered a rare breed outside of their native regions in Africa. While their popularity has been increasing in recent years, they are still relatively uncommon in many parts of the world.

What is the purpose of Azawakh?

Azawakhs have historically served multiple purposes, including hunting and guarding livestock for the Tuareg people in the Sahel region of Africa. Their agility, speed, and keen sight make them excellent hunters in the desert environment. Additionally, they are fiercely loyal and protective, making them valuable guardians for their owners' families and property.

Do Azawakh dogs bark?

Azawakhs are not known for excessive barking. While they may bark occasionally to alert their owners to potential threats, they are generally quiet and reserved, especially around strangers. However, they may vocalize more in certain situations, such as when they are excited or feel the need to protect their territory.

Are Azawakh nice?

Azawakhs are known for their loyal and affectionate nature towards their families. They form strong bonds with their owners and are deeply devoted to them. While they can be aloof or reserved around strangers, they are typically gentle and well-mannered with proper socialization and training.

What is the average Azawakh lifespan?

The average lifespan of an Azawakh is typically between 10 to 12 years. However, with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups, some Azawakhs may live even longer, while others may have shorter lifespans depending on various factors such as genetics and overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Harper Jefcoat

Harper Jefcoat is a dedicated pet enthusiast and expert author at ThePetWorld.org. With a deep-seated passion for animals, Harper brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to his writings. Specializing in canine behavior and wellness, he aims to help pet owners understand and care for their furry friends better.