Azawakh
Summary
The Azawakh (pronounced _aza-vak_) is a West African sighthound bred by the nomadic Tuareg and Fulani peoples of the Sahel to hunt gazelles, hares, and ostriches, and to guard the camp. Among Group 10 breeds, it is the one with the most vertical proportions: body length is only 90% of the height at the withers, giving it a uniquely tall and slender silhouette. It is a rare breed, with keen intelligence, marked independence, and an intense but selective loyalty.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Large
- Height (male)
- 64–74 cm
- Height (female)
- 60–70 cm
- Weight (male)
- 20–25 kg
- Weight (female)
- 15–20 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Extremely short, fine, and smooth; practically no undercoat; thin skin with bones and muscles visibly outlined
- Common Colors
- FCI standard: fawn (light sand to dark reddish) with or without brindle and white markings limited to the extremities; black mask possible in brindle; AKC standard accepts all colors
Temperament & Personality
The Azawakh is described as "swift, attentive, distant" in the official standard — a dog of reserved elegance that carefully chooses to whom it gives affection. With the family it is extraordinarily loyal and protective; with strangers it is cold or even distrustful. It is sensitive to the environment and human emotions: in tense or noisy environments it can become withdrawn or reactive. It differs from other sighthounds by having a genuine guarding instinct. It requires very early and consistent socialization to ensure a balanced temperament.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Very low
- Shedding
- Minimal
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 6–8 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Anesthesia sensitivity
- Autoimmune diseases
- Entropion/ectropion
- Gastric dilatation
- Heart problems (murmurs)
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac examination
- Complete blood and immunological analysis
- Eye examination
- Hip evaluation
- Thyroid analysis
Compatibility
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Not recommended
