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Azawakh Dog Breed Info: Pictures, Characteristics & Facts

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By Nicole Cosgrove

Azawakh

Height: 23.5 – 29 inches
Weight: 33 – 55 pounds
Lifespan: 12 – 15 years
Colors: Fawn, brindle, blue, black
Suitable for: Active families or singles looking for an affectionate dog that is easy to groom
Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, athletic, independent

You may not have heard of the Azawakh, but you won’t forget them. They strike an eye-catching image with their lanky appearance and penetrating gaze. This is a dog of the Sahara where they hunted game. They are well-equipped for the task, too, being capable of speeds up to 35 mph. As you may surmise, this pup needs daily exercise as a result.

The Azawakh had been a part of the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service Program, which acts as a bridge toward full breed recognition. It is now part of the Hound Group. This pup hunts by sight and gets its name from the Valley of the Azawakh from which it originated. While the local people have known of this breed for centuries, Europeans didn’t discover the breed until 1970.

Their background helped foster their steadfast devotion and affection for their family. The Azawakh is a quiet dog, not given to barking. Surprisingly, they can adapt to apartment living. It’s probably also a function of their job and past. After all, undoubtedly, the safe place to stay is on your home turf.

Divider 1Azawakh Puppies

Energy
Trainability
Health
Lifespan
Sociability

The size of the Azawakh is a vital consideration when thinking about buying a puppy. While they don’t have the bulk, they are certainly tall enough to intimidate smaller children. They are moderately sensitive with a reasonable amount of playfulness.

While the Azawakh can tolerate hot weather, the cold is another story. They’ll fare best if you limit their time outdoors when the temperature dips. This pup has a keen prey drive, so they might chase an animal that runs from them. However, they don’t have a high wanderlust potential. If trained properly, they’ll stay on the property and not stray even in yards that aren’t fenced-in, remarkably.

The Azawakh has an independent streak, which isn’t uncommon for dogs of this type. Nonetheless, they’re not the best choice for a first-time pet owner. Training may prove challenging for some individuals when combined with their reserved manner.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Azawakh

1. The Azawakh Shares an Odd Habit With Horses

If you’ve been around horses, you know that there is one quirky thing about them. They can sleep while standing upright. The Azawakh can also snooze in this position.


2. The Azawakh’s Gait Resembles One of Their Common Prey Species

To watch an Azawakh run is a treat. They glide over the ground with little risk of hurting themself even over rugged terrain. Their gait will remind you of a gazelle or deer bounding across the landscape.


3. The Azawakh Is the New Kid on the Block

It took a while before Europe and America recognized the Azawakh. The AKC granted them that status in 2019 with the United Kennel Club (UKC) doing so in 1993.

azawakh dog running on a beach
Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock

Azawakh Temperament & Intelligence 🧠

Loyalty is the hallmark of this breed. The Azawakh is quite affectionate with family, even if they don’t Tshow the same emotion for strangers. This is a gentle pup that isn’t aggressive or overly timid. We’d say they’re more middle-of-the-road when it comes to temperament. This is an intelligent dog, which comes from their hunting background. They well aware of their surroundings and everything in it.

The Azawakh has a moderate tendency toward nippiness. It’s a bad habit that you must correct as a puppy. This pup is a sensitive pooch, so gentle handling is the best approach with discipline and training. As you may guess, this dog needs attention. They don’t like being alone for long stretches, and they’re not a dog to leave in the yard or their crate for long periods.

Are Azawakhs Good for Families? 🏡

The Azawakh does better in a home with older children. They don’t like roughhousing much and prefer an owner that is as gentle as they are. This pup is loving but needs careful handling. Their devotion to family means that they can make excellent watchdogs. If you do have kids, we recommend that time with your Azawakh is supervised.

Do Azawakhs Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽

It’s always problematic to bring a hunting dog into a home with other pets. The Azawakh is a pack animal, so they may tolerate other dogs, especially if you socialize them as soon as you bring them home. However, cats and other small animals are off the table. A fleeing feline will likely inspire a chase around the living room. The same caution applies to rabbits and ferrets.

Divider 4Things to Know When Owning an Azawakh:

The temperament of the Azawakh is one of the significant issues of owning this pup. Fortunately, many other aspects of their care are easy-peasy. Theirth needs are simple: lots of attention, a healthy diet, and a good run every day. We’ll delve into more details about what to expect when you invite this pup into your life.

Azawakh
Credit: Aneta Jungerova, Shutterstock

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

The Azawakh has a moderate tendency for gaining weight. Therefore, it’s essential to monitor their body condition. They should always look sleek with that distinct waistline. The concern on the other end of the spectrum exists, too, especially if you’re running a lot. Ideally, you can feel their ribs without them seeming bony.

Puppies need three or four meals evenly spaced throughout the day. That will ensure that their blood sugar levels stay stable and that they have a reliable energy source. Make sure they also have plenty of fresh water available. As your Azawakh gets older, you can cut back to feeding them two times a day. We recommend that you stick to this plan and don’t reduce it to one.

Like many deep-chested breeds, the Azawakh is susceptible to bloat or life-threatening gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV). This condition occurs if a dog gulps down a lot of food or water at one sitting. It causes the stomach to distend with the risk that it will twist. The signs are unmistakable, as they’ll seem like they’re in distress and pain. They may even bite because it hurts so much. Suffice to say it’s an emergency.

Exercise 🐕

Just one look at the Azawakh, and you know it is a running dog. You have to be if you’re a pup that hunts gazelle that can run up to 50 mph. Daily walks are a must-do with this pooch. If you’re a jogger, you’ll have a willing companion on the trail. Visits to the doggie park depend on their canine manners and if you have socialized them properly. We suggest supervision at all times.

Training 🦮

The Azawakh is an intelligent dog, which their hunting background encouraged. They had to keep track of their prey and make quick moves to keep with them. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train this pup. They are sensitive to harsh reprimands. We suggest using treats only as a training aid to take care of these two aspects of care at one time: weight control and training ease.

azawakh dog running on a beach2
Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock

Grooming ✂️

Grooming an Azawakh is straightforward with their silky coat. A combing session at least once a week will keep them looking their best. Check their ears occasionally, too, to stay on top of any ear infections. If you run them on the pavement, their toenails will probably remain trim. However, inspect them regularly and cut them back as necessary.

Health and Conditions ❤️

The Azawakh is a healthy breed, thanks to their active lifestyle. If they stay fit, they’ll avoid many of the issues associated with obesity, such as diabetes. Regular preventive care is imperative for any pet. It’s also a chance for them to meet new people and keep up with their socialization skills. As we mentioned earlier, reputable breeders will conduct the routine health screenings.

Minor Conditions
  • Anesthesia sensitivity
Serious Conditions

Divider 5Male vs. Female

You’ll have a delightful pet no matter which sex of Azawakh you get. Males and females are similar in size and weight. It’s a matter of preference. Whether you choose to breed your pup might be a tipping factor. Remember that it’s a serious decision whether you undertake this effort. Spaying or neutering is an equally weighty matter. We suggest you discuss your options and timing with your vet.

Divider 3Final Thoughts: Azawakh

The Azawakh is a striking dog that leaves an indelible impression. They are graceful and almost cat-like in their temperament and disposition. The fact that they are easy to groom and have few health problems are significant points in their favor. Although you may have trouble finding one, you’ll be amply rewarded if you succeed. This pup will give you years of joy and happiness.


Featured image credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock

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