Azawakhs (Singular pronunciation: As-a-wakh; Plural Pronunciation: As-a-wakhs) are a tall and slender breed of dogs (hounds) originating in West Africa. They are renowned for their guarding instinct. Nimble and energetic, they have been kept as pets around the world for many decades.
Other Names | Tuareg Sloughi (Historical), Idi, Hanshee, Oska, Rawondu, Bareeru, Wulo |
Coat | Silky and short |
Colors | Fawn with a white bib on the chest, stockings and tail tip also white |
Type | Sighthounds |
Group (of Breed) | Purebred |
Lifespan/ Life Expectancy | Around 12 years |
Size | Large |
Height | 1’11’’-2’5’’ at the shoulders |
Weight | 33-55 lbs |
Personality Traits | ·Guarding instinct, ·Suspicious of the unknown, ·Strong bond with the owner, ·Gentle and affectionate |
Talents | ·Guardian ·Agile ·Energetic |
Good with Children | Moderate |
Shedding | Minimal |
Good with Pets | No |
Barking | Minimal |
Litter Size | 4-6 puppies |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Country of Origin | Nigeria |
Competitive Registration/Qualification Information | ACA, ACR, AKC/FSS, APRI, CKC, DRA, FCI, NAPR, NKC, UKC |
Originating during the Nigerian Civilization of West Africa, the Azawakh developed in Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso. They served as companions, guard dogs and hunting partners for the Tuareg People and other nomadic tribes of that region. They were highly regarded for their ability to bring down wild boar, gazelles and other medium sized ungulates, which they would not kill, but waited for the masters to arrive.
In the 1970s the breed was taken to Yugoslavia by Dr. Pecar, a diplomat stationed in Burkina Faso. French civil servants and military played a big part in bringing the Azawakh to Europe. In America, the first litter was born in 1987.
It is believed that the Azawakh is a result of a mixture of wolves, jackals and the dog breeds of Sloughi and Saluki.
Considering its origin, the Azawakh can be a useful guardian and companion, but will always have the inherent qualities of a hunter within it. They are a swift, intelligent, attentive, loyal, alert and proud breed. Their behavior with strangers can range from affectionate to indifferent but also the other way around. The owner must portray himself to the dog as its firm and confident pack leader. He must be even-tempered with his pet to get the best behavior out of it.
Regular trips to a licensed veterinarian can keep most health complications at bay.
At all times during the training of the Azawakh, a positive reinforcement technique has to be employed. The owner cannot expect to yell and dole out harshness to the dog, as that would result in a timid, obstinate, aggressive and overall difficult pet to deal with.
You must remember to socialize your Azawakh with all close family and friends. If it accepts them and is affectionate with them, fine; if not, don’t push it lest the dog becomes vicious.
An Azawakh can be given 1.5 to 2.5 cups of dry dog food every day split between two meals. Do not over stuff the dog because of its proneness to obesity. You can give it the occasional piece of meat and give fruits and vegetables on a regular basis.
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