Introducing the Azawakh
Discover all there is to know about the Azawakh: its characteristics, behavior, training, and cost.
The Azawakh
The Azawakh, a graceful and resilient guardian
The Azawakh, originating from the Sahel region of Africa, was bred by the Tuareg people for protection and hunting. Known for its elegance and speed, the breed has gained popularity in Great Britain for its loyalty and independence.
The Azawakh excels in hunting, guarding, and as a companion. Brave and agile, it adapts well to different roles. Loyal and affectionate with its family, it may be aloof with strangers but forms strong bonds with those it loves. Proper socialization ensures they are sociable and loving companions.
AZAWAKH FACT FILE
This section outlines the unique features of the Azawakh breed.
Group
The Azawakh belongs to the sighthound group, known for hunting by sight, speed, and agility. These dogs are independent yet loyal.
Size
Azawakhs are tall and slender, standing between 25 to 29 inches and weighing 44 to 55 pounds.
Coat length
The breed has a short, fine coat that is smooth and close to the body.
Coat color
Azawakhs typically have sandy, fawn, or brindle coats, though they can also appear in red, blue fawn, black, with some white markings.
Living environment
Best suited to homes with space to run, Azawakhs can adapt to apartments with sufficient outdoor exercise.
Sociability
Loyal and affectionate with family, Azawakhs can be reserved with strangers but are generally good with children and other dogs when socialized early.
Health
Azawakhs are generally healthy but can be prone to hip dysplasia and autoimmune disorders.
Training
Intelligent yet independent, Azawakhs need patient, gentle training with consistent positive reinforcement.
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Physical characterstics
The Azawakh, an elegant and athletic sighthound
Azawakhs are tall, slender, and perfectly balanced. Their fine, short coat often comes in fawn, brindle, or sandy shades, giving them a sleek, graceful appearance. The breed's narrow, chiseled face and almond-shaped eyes give them a dignified and alert expression.
Size and weight of the Azawakh
Azawakhs are a large breed. Females typically stand between 23.5 and 27.5 inches, while males can reach 25.5 to 29 inches in height.
In terms of weight, female Azawakhs weigh between 33 and 44 pounds, and males between 44 and 55 pounds.
These dogs grow relatively quickly, with most reaching their final size and weight by 2 years of age. Their lean physique develops early, but they continue to fill out and gain muscle throughout their first couple of years.
The coat of the Azawakh
Coat length
The Azawakh has a short, fine coat that lies close to the body. Its fur is smooth and sleek, with no waves or fringes, making it one of the more low-maintenance breeds in terms of coat care.
Coat color
The Azawakh’s coat comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, brindle, and sandy tones. Some may also display white markings, adding to their distinctive and elegant appearance.
Coat care
Azawakhs have a short coat with little to no undercoat, making shedding minimal. They shed lightly throughout the year, with no major seasonal shedding periods. Brushing once a week is usually sufficient to keep their coat healthy and smooth. Grooming requirements are minimal, and regular baths are only necessary when the dog is particularly dirty.
Other characteristics of the Azawakh
Physical features
The Azawakh is a slender, well-proportioned sighthound. Its head is narrow and finely chiseled, with almond-shaped, dark brown or amber eyes that convey alertness. The ears are set high, hanging close to the head, and slightly rounded at the tips. The body is lean yet muscular, built for speed, with long legs and a tucked abdomen, giving it a graceful, elegant look.
Temperament & behavior
What is the temperament of the Azawakh?
Azawakhs are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and affection toward their families. Although independent, they form strong bonds with their owners and are gentle and devoted companions.
Azawakh category
There are approximately 400 recognized dog breeds, classified into 10 groups. The Azawakh belongs to the sighthound group, which includes breeds such as Greyhounds and Whippets.
Sighthounds are known for their incredible speed, sharp vision, and strong hunting instincts. These breeds are typically agile, intelligent, and independent. The Azawakh, in particular, is both a skilled hunter and a loyal guardian, combining remarkable instincts with a reserved yet affectionate temperament.
Behavior of the Fox Terrier
A loyal and independent companion
The Azawakh is a graceful yet independent dog, known for its loyalty and protectiveness toward its family. While not overly demonstrative, it forms deep bonds with its owner and shows affection in subtle ways. Azawakhs thrive with an attentive owner who is present and engaged, as this ensures their well-being and proper development.
Sociable, yet reserved
Although the Azawakh is a loyal companion, it tends to be reserved with strangers. It is generally sociable with people, especially when socialized from a young age. Azawakhs can be good with children, but early socialization is essential to help them develop into well-adjusted adults. Their affectionate nature makes them a generous companion, but they require consistent guidance to fully embrace their sociability.
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The Azawakh's living environment
Adapts well with proper attention
Azawakhs can adapt to various living environments, whether in apartments or houses, urban or rural. However, they require plenty of love and attention from their owner to thrive. Daily exercise is essential, with at least two walks a day, each lasting 30 minutes or more.
Space to roam and explore
Though adaptable, the Azawakh benefits most from an environment where it can freely explore outdoors. This breed needs space to satisfy its curiosity and burn off energy, making a yard or regular access to open areas ideal for its well-being.
Training the Azawakh
Intelligent but independent learners
The Azawakh is a highly intelligent breed, capable of learning quickly. However, their independent nature means training can require patience and persistence. Positive reinforcement and consistent routines are key to effective training. Given their strong prey drive and speed, it's a good idea to equip them with a GPS collar to prevent them from getting lost or running off during off-leash activities.
Independent but responsive
While Azawakhs can be a bit aloof, they are responsive to a confident, consistent owner. Early socialization is essential to encourage their listening skills and prevent stubborn behavior. With proper guidance, Azawakhs can become obedient companions, but their independent streak means training should be approached with understanding and patience.
Health & nutrition
How to take care of the Azawakh
The Azawakh is generally a healthy and hardy breed. However, daily care is essential to prevent potential health issues. Regular attention to hygiene and consistent preventive measures help maintain the breed's well-being, reducing the risks of diseases and infections.
The health of the Azawakh
Illnesses
Azawakhs are usually robust and not prone to frequent illnesses. However, like many large breeds, they may be susceptible to conditions such as hip dysplasia and autoimmune disorders. These issues can lead to discomfort, lameness, or joint pain if not properly managed. The breed typically has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.
Routine care
Routine veterinary check-ups are vital for keeping your Azawakh healthy. Regular vaccinations, deworming, and parasite treatments should be kept up-to-date. Daily care includes brushing the coat once a week, cleaning the ears, trimming nails, and maintaining dental hygiene to prevent tartar build-up. Azawakhs may have skin sensitivities or allergies, so consult your vet for advice. The Azawakh is not considered a hypoallergenic breed.
Feeding the Fox Terrier
Daily requirements
Like all breeds, the Azawakh has specific nutritional needs that must be met to maintain its vitality and strength. A balanced diet rich in proteins and vitamins is essential for this active breed. Premium kibble, designed to meet their dietary needs, provides a solid nutritional foundation. For especially active Azawakhs, you can supplement their diet with lean white or red meat, ensuring it's low in fat to prevent weight gain while providing the necessary proteins for energy and muscle maintenance.
Breeding or adoption & cost
What does an Azawakh cost?
The Azawakh is a highly regarded but rare breed, with only a few specialized breeders. It's important to consider several factors before adopting.
How to choose your Azawakh
Finding the right breeder
When adopting an Azawakh, it’s essential to choose a reputable breeder. Visit the breeder's premises to check living conditions and ensure the health of the puppy and its parents. Ask for transparency about any genetic health issues.
Remember, your dog must be microchipped by 8 weeks and registered on a database like Petlog or Animal Tracker, a legal requirement in Great Britain, to avoid a
fine. Vets or Blue Cross centers offer microchipping services.
The price of an Azawakh
Azawakh puppies typically cost between
and
, depending on lineage and breeder reputation. Annual care costs, including vet fees and food, range from
to
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