The Azawakh, also known as the Tuareg Sloughi, is a sighthound that originated in the Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regions of West Africa. It was historically used by the Tuareg people for hunting hare, antelope, and wild boar. This elegant and tall dog is considered a prized companion and is known for its protective nature towards its owners. Azawakhs come in various colors such as red, sandy, fawn, parti-color, blue, black, and brown. With its distinct black mask on the head and white patterns on the legs, bib, and tail tip, the Azawakh has a striking appearance.
As a guardian, the Azawakh excels in its role, making it an ideal choice for homes without a family. Its graceful and regal presence adds to its desirability as a pet.
Below, we look at Azawakh dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Azawakh, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Azawakhs!
| Dog Breed | Azawakh |
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 33-44 lbs (average) |
| Height | 24-28″ (average) |
| Location | Africa |
| Ancestry | basenji, african pariah dog |
| Date of Origin | ancient times |
| Group | hunting, guarding, companion |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Price | $600 – $800 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Azawakh breed, also known as the Tuareg Sloughi, gets its name from the Tuareg nomads. It is also called Idii n’ Illeli, which means sight hound of the free people or noble dog of the free people. The exact origin of the Azawakh dog is unknown, but it started gaining popularity in certain areas during the 1970s. This breed is believed to have originated from the Southern Sahara and Sahel areas of West Africa, near Mali and Niger.
The Azawakh is a respected breed and is highly regarded by the nomads. It developed through interbreeding thousands of years ago and shares ancestors with the Saluke and Sloughi. Despite being a newer breed, the temperament and broader history of the Azawakh are still being understood. They are considered part of the family and are protective against intruders and strangers. These dogs are exceptional hunters and have a keen eye for catching prey like hare, antelope, and wild boar. They are known for their incredible stamina and can run at speeds of up to 40 mph. While they were previously trained to protect camps and hunt alongside their owners, the Azawakh now prefers hunting in packs rather than hunting alone.
In the 1980s, the Azawakh was introduced to the United States. The first puppies had red and fawn coats with white markings. Although the breed is not currently registered with the AKC, it was recognized by the UKC in 1993. While still relatively rare in the United States, the Azawakh is slowly gaining popularity.
🐕 Azawakh Appearance
The Azawakh seems athletic and lanky. The slim skin of this dog reveals its muscles and bone structure. Although it may be mistakenly assumed that the Azawakh breed is starving, this is really their normal state. For example, because the dog is developed for speed and needs frequent training to maintain his strong build, a large portion of the dog’s height may be ascribed to the long legs. Due to its beauty, the Azawakh is recognized as a royal and refined breed. The back is flat and short, the legs are slender and long, and the body is taller than it is long. The head has long almond-shaped eyes, hanging ears, and a lengthy nose. The intellect is expressed in the steady stare of the Azawakh. It has a short, thin coat that comes in a variety of hues, including black, blue, cream, fawn, gray, red, sandy, and white. Athletics are known for their light gaits. Typically, the tail is elevated over the back and carried low on the body. This dog has medium-sized ears that are situated close to the head.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Blue, Fawn, Brindle, Black |
⚡ Fun Fact: Azawakh dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don’t mind being left alone for a few hours either.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Azawakh
The bark of the Azawakh is hardly audible because to its relative quietness. The Azawakh is frequently characterized as loving and devoted to his owners while simultaneously retaining a strong sense of independence. This dog must be socialized early to avoid adapting poorly as an adult since it enjoys being the center of attention. Because of his intense hunting drive, the Azawakh could develop tensions with other cats or small dogs in the house. It is advised to socialize them together when they are young because it might not be able to do so later. The Azawakh should also be kept on a leash when outside the house to avoid him from pursuing other tiny hairy creatures. It is not recommended to let the Azawakh roam freely unless there is a yard that is walled in. Azawakh people are renowned for their independence and pride. They respond poorly to punishment but flourish when given praise. The Azawakh is not advised for kids because to its high activity level and aggressive attitude when it comes to physical play. The Azawakh is hailed as a wonderful companion dog, provided that you can give him exercise and mental stimulation. The Azawakh is also said to be loving with family members, although because to the inborn territorial tendency, they can be reserved (and violent) with young ones. It is not known how the Azawakh would react to strangers in any situation as they are known to be wary of them.
🤝 Are Azawakhs Friendly or Aggressive?
Azawakh dogs thrive as the sole pet in a family. They are not very friendly towards strangers, and may not be the best choice for households with children or cats. While they are moderately sociable with other dogs, they may not be the ideal breed for elderly individuals.
This breed is known for being:
- Aloof
- Affectionate
- Loyal
- Attentive
- Refined
- Fierce
- Rugged
🐩 Azawakh Care & Maintenance
You should brush your dog once a week to preserve the coat of this moderate shedder and to stop excessive shedding. Use a curry brush or brush with strong bristles to complete the task. To keep nails short, regular nail cutting should take place every three to four weeks. To avoid ear infections and maintain them clean, his ears should be examined monthly and cleaned as necessary. To reduce your Azawakh’s chance of developing an oral disease, wash your teeth every day. A bath at least once a month will prevent the coat’s overproduction of oils, which results in a lifeless appearance. The Azawakh needs regular walks and enough additional exercise to keep him happy due to his high activity level and inherent athleticism. The Azawakh would thrive in a home with an abundance of space to move about and lead an active lifestyle. Due to its thin skin, this species works well in warm, dry climates and dislikes the cold. Since it was raised to adapt to these conditions, the Azawakh’s diet is known to be best maintained with a low-protein diet. Bananas and carrots are two fruits and vegetables that many experts strongly suggest combining with some wild rice.
Azawakh dogs have a moderate shedding tendency, which is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. Brushing their coat regularly can help minimize the amount of hair that is shed. The amount of shedding can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and the specific breed type they belong to. As for bath time, it is generally recommended to give Azawakh dogs a bath every 4-6 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 3 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or approximately $34.00 – $45.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Azawakh dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 14 miles per week, which equates to about 75 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Azawakh dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
❤️🩹 Azawakh Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Azawakh Dog Breed can be:
- Epilepsy
- Bloat
- Wobbler’s Syndrome
While minor concerns include:
- Sensitive to Anesthesia
🤧 Important: Is Azawakh hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Azawakh.
⚡ Azawakh Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Azawakh a great choice for families with young children?
The Azawakh is not recommended for families with young children due to its high activity level and its off-putting personality towards rough play.
Is the Azawakh breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Azawakh is not considered a suitable breed for apartment living as they require ample space to exercise and thrive.
How much exercise does a Azawakh require compared to other breeds?
The Azawakh requires a significant amount of exercise compared to other breeds. They have a strong prey drive and need regular physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Is the Azawakh breed known for being good with other pets?
The Azawakh breed is known to be guarded and reserved towards other pets, especially small animals like cats or small dogs. It is recommended to socialize them with other pets at an early age, but caution is advised.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Azawakh?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Azawakh include the Basenji, Whippet, and Greyhound. These breeds have similar traits and exercise requirements.
What are the common health issues that Azawakhs are prone to?
Azawakhs are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, autoimmune diseases, and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and responsible breeding practices can help mitigate these risks.
Are Azawakhs known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Azawakhs are known to be intelligent and independent, which can make them somewhat challenging to train compared to more eager-to-please breeds. Consistent and positive reinforcement methods work best for training an Azawakh.
Are Azawakhs more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Azawakhs, like many sighthound breeds, can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Proper socialization, training, and providing mental stimulation can help alleviate this issue.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Azawakh that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Azawakh that are suitable for people with allergies include the Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats and produce fewer allergens.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Azawakh are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Smaller-sized dogs similar to the Azawakh, such as the Whippet or Italian Greyhound, are best for individuals or families with limited space as they require less room to move around.
Is the Azawakh breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Azawakh breed is not specifically known for being good with children with special needs. Each individual dog’s temperament and training should be evaluated before determining its suitability for such situations.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Azawakh?
The grooming needs of the Azawakh are relatively low compared to other breeds. They have a short, fine coat that requires minimal brushing. The shedding is also minimal, making them a relatively low-maintenance breed in terms of grooming.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Azawakh dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
