Your location: Home > Wiki > Dog Breeds > Azawakh >

image

Azawakh

Veterinarian Reviewed on December 22, 2007 by Dr. Janice Huntingford

Azawakh.jpg

Physical Characteristics

Breed Group:

Sighthound.

Weight:

Males weigh approximately 44-55 pounds (20-25 kg) and females weigh approximately 33-44 pounds (15-20 kg).

Height:

Males are approximately 25-29 inches (64-74 cm) at the withers and females are approximately 23.5-27.5 inches (60-70 cm).

Color(s):

The standard colouring is any shade of fawn. White and black markings are also standard.

Coat:

The Azawakh has a coat of fine hair that lies close to its body. Hair on the abdomen may be sparse or completely lacking.

Overview

Character:

With their owners and other humans of their choice, Azawakhs can be affectionate animals. Gentle and lively, Azawakhs are also tough and hardy. These dogs make excellent watchdogs and guard dogs.

Country of Origin:

Mali.

History:

The Azawakh originated in Africa, near the border of Mali in the Azawakh Valley’s Nigerian Basin. Closely related to the Saluki and Arabian Greyhound, this breed was developed to be kept as a pet and to trip up gazelles so Tuaregs on horseback could catch them. This breed first arrived in Europe during the 1970’s and was officially recognized for the first time in 1981.

Name:

Named for its place of origin in the Azawakh Valley. This breed is also known as the Tuareg Sloughi.

Temperament:

Azawakhs are independent and strong-willed animals. They tend to be reserved with strangers but form strong bonds with a few select humans. Azawakhs also bond strongly and easily with other Azawakhs. While not aggressive, these dogs would rather not be touched.

Care

Training:

Azawakhs require early socialization and obedience training. They require firm but patient training.

Activity:

These dogs are very lively and require plenty of regular exercise.

Ownership:

Azawakhs are excellent hunting dogs and companion dogs. However, these dogs are not suitable for apartment or urban living, as they require lots of open space. Azawakhs also need plenty of daily exercise and must be groomed weekly. Due to their strong-willed natures, Azawakhs require firm and patient training starting at an early age.

Breeders

No breeders listed at this time.

List of dog breeds

Read also: Bavarian Mountain Hound
231 people found this article useful. Did you find this article useful? Yes

Our Expert

Dr. Janice Huntingford
Janice Huntingford, DVM, has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years and has founded two veterinary clinics since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. She has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities. Ask Dr. Jan

Related Posts