Azawakh

The Azawakh is an ancient sighthound breed with origins deeply rooted in the Sahel region of West Africa, encompassing areas of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. For thousands of years, these elegant and swift hounds have been companions and working partners to the Tuareg, Fula, and other nomadic tribes of the region. Their primary role was that of a hunter, capable of pursuing fast game such as gazelle, hare, and wild boar across the harsh desert terrain, often working in packs.

Beyond hunting, Azawakhs also served as vigilant guardians of their nomadic camps, alerting their people to the approach of strangers or predators. They lived in close association with their human families, sharing their lives and resources. Their lean, muscular build, deep chest, and long legs are perfectly adapted for speed and endurance in hot, arid climates. The breed remained relatively unknown outside of its native region until the 1970s when a few were brought to Europe, particularly France. The American Kennel Club recognized the Azawakh in 2019, placing it in the Hound Group.

The Azawakh possesses a temperament that is both deeply loyal to its family and fiercely protective of its home and people. They form very strong bonds with their chosen humans and can be surprisingly affectionate and gentle within their inner circle. However, they are inherently aloof, reserved, and wary of strangers, a trait developed from centuries of guarding nomadic encampments. This makes them excellent watchdogs but also means extensive and early socialization is absolutely crucial.

Azawakhs are intelligent but also highly independent thinkers, a characteristic common in sighthounds bred to hunt and make decisions at a distance. They are not typically driven by an overwhelming desire to please in the same way some other breeds are, which can make training a unique challenge. They are sensitive dogs and do not respond well to harsh training methods. Their prey drive is very strong, and they may not be suitable for homes with small non-canine pets unless raised together with careful management. They are generally quiet in the home but will alert to perceived threats.

The Azawakh has a very short, fine coat that lies close to the body, with the belly being nearly bare. This type of coat is exceptionally easy to maintain and requires minimal grooming. They are considered very low shedders.

A weekly rubdown with a hound mitt or a soft cloth is usually sufficient to remove any loose dead hair and keep their coat looking sleek and shiny. This also helps to distribute skin oils. Baths are needed only occasionally, as their coat naturally repels dirt and does not typically have a strong “doggy” odor. Due to their fine skin and short coat, they can be sensitive to cold weather and may require a coat in chilly climates. Regular nail trims, ear cleaning (checking their drop ears for any signs of irritation), and dental care are important components of their overall grooming routine.

Azawakhs are sighthounds bred for speed and endurance, and they have high exercise requirements. They need regular opportunities to run freely at full speed in a large, **very securely fenced area**. A simple leash walk, while beneficial, is not enough to satisfy their physical and mental needs. They are incredibly fast and agile.

Aim for at least one good run per day, in addition to daily walks. Excellent exercise options include:

• Off-leash running in a safe, expansive, and securely enclosed space. Their strong prey drive and speed mean they should **never** be trusted off-leash in an unsecured area.
• Lure coursing, where they can chase a mechanical lure, is an ideal activity that caters to their natural instincts.
• Jogging or running alongside a bicycle (once fully mature and conditioned, and if done safely).
• Long, brisk walks on leash.

Without sufficient exercise, Azawakhs can become bored, frustrated, and may develop behavioral issues. They are best suited to active individuals or families who can provide them with the space and opportunity to run and stretch their long legs.

The Azawakh is generally considered a hardy and healthy breed, having developed in a harsh environment with natural selection playing a strong role. However, like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Due to their relative rarity in some parts of the world, comprehensive data on genetic predispositions may be more limited than for more common breeds. Potential health concerns include:

• Hip Dysplasia: Though generally light-boned, it can occur.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV): A risk for deep-chested breeds.
• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland.
• Seizures/Epilepsy: Has been noted in some lines.
• Heart Conditions: Such as cardiomyopathy.
• Sighthound Anesthesia Sensitivity: Like other sighthounds, Azawakhs can be sensitive to certain anesthetic drugs. It is crucial that veterinarians are aware of this.
• Osteosarcoma:** (Bone Cancer) – Sighthounds in general have a higher predisposition.