Azawakh picture
Azawakh

Idi, Hanshee, Oska, Rawondu, Bareeru, Wulo, Tuareg Sloughi

Overview

Morphology is very similar to that of the Middle Eastern and South Indian sight hounds, all swift, high-bred coursing hounds, although there are several obvious differences. For example, a short, flat back combined with long legs place the hips higher than the withers. The Azawakh is almond eyed and thin. It moves with a distinctly feline gait and can be found in a variety of colors as well as varying degrees of refinement, though format is basically constant. The standards call for a hound from 33 to 55 pounds (15 to 25 kg); its height is 24 to 29 inches (61 to 74 cm). The coat is very short and almost absent on the belly. Its bone structure shows clearly through the skin and musculature. Its muscles are "dry", meaning that they are quite flat, unlike the Greyhound and Whippet. In this respect it is similar in type to the Saluki.

Relative to its native environment, the smooth-coated Azawakh hound mentally and structurally manifests his vocation as hunter, protector and companion. Quick, attentive, distant, proud and alert, he remains instinctively reserved with strangers and gentle with those he loves. Socialize well. Especially slender and elegant, his frame and muscles are visible under a dry, fine skin. The Azawakh has a natural tendency to guard. Be sure you are this dog's calm, but firm, confident and consistent pack leader. Does best with an owner who is even-tempered, displaying a natural, but gentle authority over the dog. Independent and exceptionally fast, these dogs can reach up to 37 mph (60 km/h).

Size Large
Height Male: 25–29 inches (64–74 cm)Female: 24–28 inches (60–70 cm)
Weight Male: 44–55 pounds (20–25 kg)Female: 33–44 pounds (15–20 kg)
Lifespan 10-12 years
Colors Black Blue Brindle Brown Golden Gray White
Origin Mali
Classification Purebred
Good Lapcat
Good In Apartments

The Azawakh will do okay in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. Azawakhs are sensitive to the cold but do well in cold climates as long as they wear a coat outside.

Good With Children

Not Good with Kids: In isolation, this dog breed might not be the best option for kids. However, to mitigate the risks, have the puppy grow up with kids and provide it with plenty of pleasant and relaxed experiences with them. This breed is also shy toward other pets and shy toward strangers.

Good With Dogs

Good With Cats

Exercise Needs

Azawakhs that are kept as pets should have regular opportunities to run free on open ground as well as have long, brisk walks daily, preferably at the same time every day.

Trainability

Difficult Training: The Azawakh isn't deal for a first time dog owner. Patience and perseverance are required to adequately train it.

Affectionate

Playfulness

Grooming Requirements

The smooth, shorthaired coat is very easy to groom. Simply comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and dry shampoo only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

Shedding

Minimal Shedding: Recommended for owners who do not want to deal with hair in their cars and homes.

Vocalization/Barking

Occassional

Azawakh Pictures