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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Azawakh
The leggy and elegant Azawakh gives an overall impression of great fineness. The
head is long, narrow, slender and well-chiseled. The skull is nearly flat and fairly
long and the nose is black or brown. The high-set ears are thin, long and lie flat
against the head. The almond-shaped eyes are fairly large and are dark or amber-colored.
The long and slender body is muscular and slightly arched. The prominent hips are
slightly higher than the withers. The tail is low, thin and tapers to a point. The
coat of this breed is close-lying, fine and sparse. Coat colors come in fawn with
flecking, light sable and dark fawn. This breed's frames and muscles are visible
under a dry and fine skin. The chest has a white bib and a brush at the tip of the
tail. Each of the four limbs must have a white "stocking" in the shape of a trace
on the feet.
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Temperament
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The Azawakh Hound is tough, hardy, and lively. This breed hunts by sight and will
bound quickly after antelope and has the ability to catch birds in flight. They
are very reserved towards strangers. This ferocious breed makes a good watchdog
for nomad camps. They can be very strong-willed and independent but is affectionate
with a select few. This breed needs early and rigorous, yet patient training.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 25-29" ; Weight: 44-55 lbs.
Female Height: 23-27" ; Weight: 33-44 lbs.
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Health Problems
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Problems in the breed include seizures, auto-immune problems, spondylosis and myositis.
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Living Conditions
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It is not recommended to keep an Azawakh in an apartment. They need lots of space
to run. They need to wear a sweater or coat if they are in a cold climate.
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Exercise
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The Azawakh should have regular opportunities off?lead to run free on open ground
as well as long daily brisk walks.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12 years
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Grooming
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Occasional brushing is recommended. Bathe only when necessary. They are average
shedders.
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Origin
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The Azawakh is a close relative to the Arabian Greyhound and the Saluki. They originated
in the Sahel region of Africa. They were bred by nomadic tribes as hunting, guard
and companion dogs. One can often see the Azawakh sleeping on the low straw roofs
of their village homes. If an intruder approaches, the Azawakh will jump down and
be quickly joined by the others. Once they form a pack they will chase off or kill
the intruder. The Azawakh was recognized by the UKC in 1993 and has been accepted
for recording in the AKC Foundation Stock Service®.
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Group
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AKC/FSS Hound, UKC Sighthound and Pariah
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