Azawakh - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin
This is an ancient dog breed from a region of today Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso. The Azawakh can trace its history thousands of years to the early Nigerian civilization, when they were living with the nomadic Tuareg tribes and migrated with them across the Sahel. We are not sure about the certain breeds origin, but it is believed that they have similar ancestry as the Saluki or Sloughi and that they originated from the ancient pariah dogs of sub Saharan Africa. During their history, they might also be crossed with some wild animals, for example with jackals.

2) Purpose
Azawakhs were highly valued by nomadic tribes for their versatility. Not only that they are extraordinary hare and antelope and wild boar hunters, they are also exceptional livestock and personal protectors. They were trained to guard camps. Besides that, they also make great companion dogs.

3) High prey drive
Because of the Azawakhs high prey drive, this is a bad choice for families with other smaller household pets, including cats, hamsters or guinea pigs. These animals would most likely not be safe around them. You should only leave them off leash in fenced areas or in areas that you know very well, because they love chasing just anyting. Even a leaf in the wind will trigger a chase.

4) Loyalty
This is extremely loyal dog and Azawakh tends to create very strong bond with its owner and family. Azawakh dogs are very social and emotional and they thrive for attention from other dogs or people. Because of their loyalty, it is hard to rehome them, just because they become so attached to its people.

5) Size
This is a very lean, athletic dog, whose bone structure shows clearly through the skin. But it should be like that, it definitely does not mean, that the dog is starving. The average height of Azawakh should be between 60-74 cm which is 24-29 inches and weight between 15-25 kg, which is 33-55 pounds. The females are naturally little bit smaller than males.

6) Independent dog
The Azawakh is definitely a smart and bright dog, all the hunting breeds are, but that does not mean that they are pushovers to train. It is because this is proud and independent thinker. They need patient and firm trainer, than, they can learn a lot of tricks and commands. Again, this is a sensitive breed, so harsh training methods are not the best, you should rather try positive reward based methods.

7) Pack
Azawakhs love to live in a pack, which might not sound surprising, but in reality, a lot of sighthounds prefer to hunt alone. Not the Azawakh. This is a pack oriented dog that forms complex social hierarchies. And for example, if Azawakh see or hear a danger, they will first bark to alert other members of the pack and they will all face the danger together.

8) Active dog
This is a highly energetic, fast and agile dog breed. They are used to hunt hares and gazelles and they are using their speed to hunt them, so you should not be surprised that they want to properly stretch their long legs, even, if they are living the typical companion dog life. Daily longer walks, or better, jogs are necessary for this breed.

9) Health
This is a very hardy dog breed and even if they suffer from some injury, they normally heal very quickly. The average lifespan is between 10-13 years. Just like all the sighthounds, they are sensitive to anesthesia and they can suffer from epilepsy, bloating and Wobblers syndrome.

10) Maintenance
If we are not considering the exercise, than this is a easy breed to maintain. They do shed, but it is nothing terrible. They also do not have much of the typical doggy odor, so bathing should be done only if it is really necessary. Some people believe, that you should feed Azawakhs with low protein diet. And one last thing is, that this dog does not like cold and wet temperatures very much. If you live in a colder climate, your dog will need a coat or sweater.