Azawakh

Azawakh’s Appearance 

At first glance, even most laypeople can identify the Azawakh as a sighthound. Its sinewy, very slim, and delicate body stands on high legs. Triangular floppy ears frame a narrow head with a long catch. Its rod is set low and narrows at the end. Bones and muscles are clearly visible under the dry skin.

With a shoulder height of up to 74cm for males and up to 70cm for females, the Azawakh weighs around 25kg and 20kg respectively. The very slim appearance is standard for the breed. However, this appearance in African Azawakhs is often due to a nutritional state characterised by limited fluid intake and malnutrition.

In contrast, well-fed Azawakhs at exhibitions tend to have little chance of good placement. The colour of the short, thin coat resembles desert sands, varying from sand-coloured tones to dark red, with light markings being preferred. 

History of the Azawakh: All-Rounder of the Desert 

Similar to today’s Azawakh, breed dogs have been immortalised on cave paintings thousands of years ago. The enduring hunter was a long-time companion of the Fulani and Tuareg tribes in the southern Sahara, earning the name “Tuareg sighthound.”

In this dry and barren region, they hunt antelopes, gazelles, and smaller creatures like hares during chasing hunts. In addition, they guard the herds and tents of the nomads. The breed name “Azawakh” derives from the Azawakh Valley on the border between Mali and Niger, considered the birthplace of the breed. The Tuareg often simply call their companion “Idi,” meaning “dog.”

This is due to the fact that, besides the original Azawakh, hardly any other breeds are kept. This proud desert companion found its way to Europe in the 1970s. The FCI established a general standard for the breed in 1981, which has undergone several changes, including controversies over fur colours and the distribution of white patches. While the Azawakh was a rarity when it first arrived in Europe, it has since become established within the sighthound family with a relatively large number of followers.

Although the breed originates from Mali, France currently holds the patronage over Azawakh breeding. 

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Azawakh’s Sensitive Nature 

The Azawakh is highly sensitive and responsive to the mood of its handlers, requiring a calm and composed leader. After appropriate socialisation and imprinting, it forms a close bond with its human family, though remains reserved with strangers.

Often attaching itself particularly closely to a single person, it enjoys cuddling with them. If you’re looking for a consistently cheerful dog for all occasions, the Azawakh might not be the best fit. It absorbs the atmosphere of its surroundings and behaves accordingly.

The proud dog never forgets harsh treatment or inappropriate reactions. Due to its original roles as a guard dog and hunting companion, the Azawakh tends to be territorial and has a strong hunting instinct. 

Training the Azawakh 

This breed requires early exposure to unfamiliar people, other dogs, and daily life situations to avoid becoming reclusive and insecure as an adult. This need is especially critical for the Azawakh.

Attending a dog school, including puppy play sessions, is highly recommended to enhance social qualities. As the Azawakh reacts sensitively to your moods, it quickly learns which “buttons” to press to influence you. Therefore, be consistently firm from the puppy age.

A strong yet gentle approach combined with trust-building exercises is key to success. 

Health Awareness 

Sighthounds come with their unique health considerations. It’s beneficial to find a vet experienced with sighthounds or willing to learn about them. For instance, blood values in sighthounds differ from those in other dogs, potentially leading to misdiagnoses by inexperienced vets.

Anesthetic procedures require special attention due to the lack of undercoats, and warmth is essential during the recovery phase. While this originally African breed loves the sun, ensure it has shaded spots to rest in summer. In winter, ensure it remains active to prevent it from getting cold, as prolonged standing can lead to chills.

The breed has an average lifespan of around 12 years. 

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Nutrition for Sprinters 

The Azawakh’s fine-boned and sporty silhouette is vital to its nature. However, starving the dog to meet standards is discouraged. Feed your sighthound high-quality food with meat as the main ingredient. Ensure the protein content does not exceed 25%, as high protein levels can affect the kidneys.

The diet should also be low fat. Healthy treats, such as dental care snacks or dried meat like beef ears, are good choices. When changing diet, do so gradually by mixing small portions of the new food with the existing one each day.

Avoid activities after meals to prevent gastric torsion. Always provide fresh drinking water. 

Azawakh’s Coat Care: Brushing Enhances Bonding 

Grooming your Azawakh is straightforward due to its short hair. To strengthen your bond and remove loose hair, regularly brush your dog with a soft brush or a nubbed rubber glove. Short-haired dogs often have sensitive skin when it comes to bathing. Usually, wiping dirty spots with a damp cloth suffices.

Clean floppy ears as needed with a canine ear cleaner. Especially in older dogs, claws might grow too long and not wear down sufficiently. In such cases, use special dog claw clippers. Consult your vet if you need assistance. 

Ready, Set, Run! 

The Azawakh is a passionate runner. However, its strong hunting instinct can make it run away at the sight of rabbits when off-lead. But in safe areas without wildlife, a well-trained Azawakh is typically responsive to recall.

For optimal exercise, consider visiting dog racing tracks. Explore such facilities and coursing opportunities in your area before getting an Azawakh to understand if you feel comfortable there – your companion will love it!

Here, your dog can enjoy running at full speed without the need to participate in formal races. While the Azawakh can accompany you jogging or cycling, this often isn’t sufficient to meet its long-term exercise needs. You can try dog sports like agility or flyball, but Azawakhs typically show limited interest.

Always consider the dog’s developmental stage during training to avoid overexerting young dogs, which could harm their joints. 

Is an Azawakh Right for Me? 

This breed is suitable for experienced dog owners desiring a sensitive companion with a strong will, who can provide ample exercise. Although Azawakhs typically form a close bond with one person, they can also be good family dogs, especially if they have had early interactions with children.

Protect your dog from too much noise and remember it takes time to warm up to strangers. A property with a high fence allows for necessary free play; it’s not suitable for city apartments. They need constant contact with their owner and are not ideal for owners who leave them alone for long hours daily. This sensitive breed deserves an empathetic owner willing to engage with its emotional needs.

If you can commit to this, you’ll gain a loyal companion through all life’s journeys. Remember, adopting any pet involves significant responsibility for many years, including costs, time commitments, holiday planning, and potential household allergies. 

Where Can I Find My Azawakh? 

Despite gaining popularity in Europe, the Azawakh is still relatively rare. If you want an Azawakh, research thoroughly to find a trustworthy breeder affiliated with an FCI-recognised club. This ensures you get a healthy, typical Azawakh with good health prospects.

Sighthound clubs can offer information and breeder contacts. When you find a breeder, it’s crucial to visit and meet the puppy and its parents. Use this time to ask the breeder about their goals and health measures. A reputable breeder will take the time to discuss this and evaluate your dog experience and living situation to ensure you can provide a good home. 

If you’re considering adopting an adult Azawakh, contact sighthound clubs. Owners may rehome their Azawakh due to life changes or behavioral challenges. Gather as much information as possible about the dog’s background to determine if it fits your experience.

Many mixed-breed sighthounds or those from southern countries are also available for adoption through rescue organisations. Familiarize yourself with adoption conditions and potential health risks, like Leishmaniasis, from overseas dogs. 

We wish you a wonderful time with your unique Azawakh!